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What Causes Main Drain Line Clogs?
Household drains clog for a number of reasons. Often, clogs are caused by an accumulation of debris (like baby wipes, feminine products or too much toilet paper) or things like kids' toys, cotton swabs and dental floss. Pouring grease down kitchen drains can also cause buildup over time and lead to a clog in the main line. A broken pipe in your plumbing system can also cause a clog. Or, the problem can lie at your home's foundation — where growing tree roots may have ruptured a line.
Tips to Prevent Drain Problems
Since many main household drain clogs are caused by human error, being careful about what goes down your drains is important. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of a problem.
- Don't empty coffee grounds, grease or material that can clump or solidify in the sink.
- When using a garbage disposal, run plenty of cold water to flush food particles down the pipe.
- Clean strainers and pop-up stoppers frequently.
- Stick to only small amounts of toilet paper in toilets and ensure other items go in the trash can.
- When signs of a clogged drain — such as slow draining — appear, work on unclogging that drain before a bigger problem at the main drain line develops.
- Consider using a drain maintenance treatment designed to reduce buildup in pipes. Make sure it's suitable for your system.
- If you have a septic tank, have a professional inspect it every two to three years, or as required in your area.
How Do You Unclog a Main Sewer Line Without a Snake?
You can tackle a clogged sewer line using other strategies if you don't have a snake on hand. First, you can run hot water down the drain for 5 to 10 minutes to see if that helps break up the clog. If it doesn't, pour equal parts of vinegar and baking soda into a bowl and then pour that mixture down the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes, and then run hot water down the drain.
Can You Pour Drain Opener Chemicals Down a Main Sewer Line?
Yes, you can use drain opener chemicals to clean out a sewer line. However, note that these chemicals typically target small blockages, not major ones, so your success with this method may depend on the size of the clog.
How to Unclog a Drain
A plumbing auger — also known as a plumbing snake — and a sewer rod are effective against some clogs in the main drain line.
If you suspect a blockage in the main drain line, don't use the plumbing system in your home until it's cleared. Getting more water into the line could cause wastewater backups in the home.
