What to Do About Outdoor Plumbing Blockages and How to Prevent Them

Protect the Plumbing Against Harmful Clogs

Because much of the plumbing, including sewer lines, is hidden under the ground outdoors, homeowners may find it difficult to know if there is a problem. One issue that can occur with the outdoor and underground piping is blockages and clogs. Clogs can cause additional issues throughout the plumbing and should be fixed immediately to prevent additional issues. This blog will share everything homeowners should know about these clogs, including signs indicating a clog, their causes, how to avoid them, and how professionals can solve them.  

Common Signs of Outdoor Plumbing Clogs

Common signs that the outdoor or underground plumbing is clogged include slow draining from the home's drains and sewer backups in the toilets. Homeowners might also notice a foul odor or gurgling sounds coming from their drains, which can also indicate there is a clog. If a homeowner suspects they have a clog, it's essential to take action as soon as possible before the problem worsens and causes damage to the home. 

Clogs can carry severe consequences if left untreated. One of the most common is flooding, which happens when water has no place to go and overflows from drains or toilets. This can result in extensive damage to floors, walls, and furniture, as well as the growth of mold and mildew. Clogs can also cause sewage backups when raw sewage flows back into the home or yard. This can lead to health risks and costly repairs. In some cases, a clog can even cause pipes to burst due to the pressure built up by the clog. A professional plumber can help unclog pipes before these issues can occur.

Prevent Common Causes of Underground Plumbing Clogs

Outdoor sewer lines can get clogged due to a variety of reasons. Paper towels, wipes, and other non-flushable materials can block water flow in outdoor pipe systems and form clogs. Also, pouring cooking oil, grease, and fats down the drain can cause clogs when they harden and stick to pipe walls. Clogs in outdoor pipes can also be caused by tree roots that break into and clog the pipe when looking for water and nutrients.

Prevention is vital when it comes to protecting outdoor pipes from clogs. Regular maintenance of these systems can help keep them free from debris buildup. Additionally, ensuring that tree roots are trimmed away, or trees are planted far from underground plumbing is also essential for avoiding clogs. Finally, not pouring grease or oils down the drain and not flushing anything down toilets other than toilet paper is crucial to preventing clogs. These proactive steps will help keep outdoor pipes free from clogs. 

Professional Methods for Clearing Tough Clogs

Two professional methods for clearing clogs are hydro jetting and drain snaking. Both methods are effective and safe for pipes when performed by a professional. Details about these methods are explained below:

• Drain Snake: The drain snake or plumber’s snake is a device that uses a sharp rotating head on a long cable to go deep into the pipes and drill through the clog. It can break up the clog to continue down the line or grab onto the clog and pull it out of the access point.

• Hydro Jet: The method of hydro jetting is most easily explained as highly pressurized water bombarding the clog until it breaks up. This method can also be used to clean the pipe walls of any build-up and debris to prevent clogs.

About Master Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling

Master Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling has over 30 years of experience serving Cedar Rapids and the surrounding areas. They provide same-day service, upfront pricing, and tailored options. Call them today for drain cleaning services in  Cedar Rapids, IA.

Contact Information:

Master Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling

3111 1st Ave SE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
United States

Amanda Marshall
(319) 363-7533
https://masterplumbingcr.com/