Pipe cleaning is not what it used to be. These days, plumbers have access to modern technology to assist them with clearing out clogged drains. The piping systems in older homes differ from those in newer dwellings. Due to these differences, clogged pipes may need to be unclogged differently.

Traditional unclogging methods were to use a large snake to push the item clogging the pipe through the system. Large snakes are still used, but in older homes they can over-stress the plumbing, leading to more issues. Leaks and other extensive repairs may be required if a snake is used to unclog a drain in an older home.

Two advanced technologies used by professional DC drain services include power-rodding and hydro-jetting. Only a professional drain service can unclog drains in this matter. Specialized training is required, to ensure the machine is being used properly.

What Is Power-Rodding?

Power-rodding is an innovative technology that emulates the design of a traditional plumber’s snake. Although the design may be the same, the tasks that can be accomplished with this tool are modern. It not only unclogs the pipes, but it also cleans them. When using the tool, a plumber will thread the pipe into the drain, to locate the clog.

Once in the drain, the tiny razor blades on the outer surface of the tool will go to work. An electric motor rotates the tools cable at high speeds. The sharp blades scour the walls of the pipe, while also eliminating the clog in the line. The clog and sludge build up is broken down into tiny pieces, and flushed out of the system.

The Hydro-Jetting Technique

Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to flush out clogs and clean out the pipes at the same time. A plumber will thread the tool into the pipe, and turn the water on. The cleaning head on the opposing end of the lines precision nozzles, discharge water at 3500 psi.

The pressure provided by the water, acts like a knife, cutting through any obstructions within the piping system. This method will not only clear out a clog, but it also removes any sludge in its path. The force of the water breaks down the clog and sludge into small particles, flushing it through the piping system.

Does Specialized Equipment Have To Be Used To Clean All Clogs?

Clogged drains are a common plumbing dilemma. Most people resort to calling a professional service when they are not able to remedy the problem on their own. Even though professional equipment can be used to clear clogs from a clogged line, it is not always necessary.

Usually power-rodding and hydro-jetting are used on cleaning pipes in older homes. The piping systems in older homes are delicate. Time can cause the pipes to rust or break away, making the task of cleaning a clog difficult. Advanced technologies are employed for these types of services. Small clogs will still warrant the plumber to use a traditional snake. The equipment used to clear out a clogged drain can impact the cost of the drain cleaning service.

Chances are, if you have a clog in your sewer line, you will not be able to see it. Sewer clogs can cause an extensive amount of damage. Most homeowners are aware that sewer lines help transport waste from the home into sewer mains located underground. Beyond this, homeowners do not give any thought to their homes sewage system, until something goes wrong.

Clogs within the sewer lines can cause raw sewage to backup into other drains around the home. As the other drains clog with waste, the damages that occur can be massive. Not to mention, the longer a homeowner waits to fix a sewage issue, the more expensive the repair. Homeowners that acknowledge warning signs quickly can eliminate expensive repairs. There are a few things that homeowners need to pay attention to.

Clogged Drains Or Toilets

A common red flag that signifies a possible sewer problem is water coming back up out of the drain. Gurgling sounds may accompany the issue, as the water raises to the surface of the sink or tub. According to DC sewer services, your home will speak to you if there is a sewage issue.

In a residence, all plumbing lines run together. If you start noticing after using your washing machine, that the toilets start making noises, or there is water around the basement floor drain, this could be a sign of a sewage problem. Most clogs will occur within the main sewer line or in one of the secondary lines supporting it.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are another common cause for clogged sewer lines. This occurs a lot in older homes. In newer homes, clogs commonly occur due to feminine hygiene products, thick toilet paper, or paper towels, being flushed down the toilet. Older pipes are different from newly laid pipes.

In places where vegetation is abundant, tree roots can crush piping systems. Remember, older piping systems were not built like modern systems. Overtime, the pipes will start to deteriorate, requiring them to have to be replaced. Slow flowing drains, and gurgling sounds coming from toilet bowls are the first signs to tell if the clog is caused by tree roots.

Shut Off The Water Source

If there is a clog in your plumbing system, and you suspect that the issue is caused by a sewer drain, there is one thing you must do first. You need to shut off the water at the source of the problem. If you do not know where the source of the issue is coming from, simply turn all water off in your home.

Homeowner that can access the sewer cleanout line in their homes can remove the cap to release the pressure in the line. The sewer cleanout line is normally a round, short, white pipe that has a rubber cap on top of it. Releasing this line will force the water that is clogged in the pipe, to be released outside, instead of coming back into your residence.

To maintain the sewage system in your home, fill your sinks to the top twice a month, and then let them drain. The added pressure ensures proper flow. This will help move any waste that is trapped in the line.