Climbing onto a ladder to clean out gutters is an annual rite of passage for homeowners. But it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of more serious problems, such as clogged drains or burst pipes.
Clogged or slow-moving drains can be caused by many different things, from hair to mineral buildup. Learn how to fix common drain problems without harmful chemical cleaners:
Clogged Drains
A blocked drain can be a real pain. Whether it’s a kitchen sink that doesn’t drain, standing water in the shower during a bath or sewage backing up into your toilet, it needs to be dealt with immediately to prevent costly damage.
Often, clogs can be cleared with household items rather than commercial drain cleaners. Using a plunger and hot water to clear a drain can be quick and easy, especially if the clog is a result of soap scum or hair build-up.
For stubborn clogs, it’s time to turn to a drain snake, which is essentially a long, thin metal cable with a hook on the end that can be fed down the drain and hooked onto the clog to pull it out. It may require a bit of elbow grease to feed the snake through the pipes, but once it grabs hold of the clog, it can break it up and pull it out. For professional help, https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/blocked-drains-melbourne/ is example of sites that offer plumbing services.
Broken Pipes
Pipes break for many reasons. Insufficient or no insulation is a big one, as are freezing temperatures and tree roots invading sewer or water lines. Age and general wear and tear also play a role in broken pipes.
When a pipe breaks, it can cause extensive and expensive damage. The first step in dealing with a broken pipe is to turn off the water supply. This will stop new water from entering the system and further damaging the burst pipe.
Next, identify the location and severity of the leak. If possible, use a moisture meter or visual clues to pinpoint the source. Finally, move any valuables away from the area and take steps to minimize the damage. Pipe repair clamps or epoxy putty can help make a temporary fix until a professional plumber arrives. These supplies can be found in most hardware and plumbing supply stores. They’re an inexpensive way to keep your home safe and dry until a plumber is available.
Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is one of the worst nightmares a homeowner can face. Unless caught quickly, it can cause severe water damage and lead to expensive repairs and renovations.
Burst pipes are a major emergency situation and should be dealt with immediately by calling in a pro plumber. Before the plumber arrives, try to limit any further water damage by turning off your home’s main water supply at the valve located on your
property, usually near the water meter.
Next, try to locate the leak or broken pipe and turn off any water flow to it. If possible, try to clear away any water or sewage that has collected in the area and dispose of it safely. Finally, take steps to prevent any future problems by investing in a drain cover that will help to keep blockages at bay. This is especially important if you live in an older home with old or outdated plumbing.
Tree Roots
The roots of healthy trees are an important part of a yard or garden. They provide support for the trunk and branches of a tree, as well as insulate and reduce soil compaction. However, the roots of some trees may become exposed above ground for a variety of reasons.
Often, these roots aren’t causing any problems but they do pose a tripping hazard and can ruin lawn equipment or cause cracks in sidewalks or patios. In other cases, the roots are a sign of serious problems below the surface and should be addressed by a professional.
While it’s possible to fix a small drain clog by using the main sewer line cleaner yourself, you need the help of a plumbing or drainage professional to repair root ingress, broken pipes and other serious problems that can occur deep underground. Professionals can use heavy-duty drain cleaning machines that aren’t available to homeowners to get to the source of a problem.