If you have ever dealt with a backed-up drain, you know the cleanup process is not fun. A clogged septic line is typically caused by an obstruction in the pipes or when the septic pipe levels out and keeps gravity from doing its job. Here’s how to clear clogged septic lines!
How Septic Lines get Clogged
Septic lines get clogged for a multitude of reasons. Many of which are dependent on the time of year and how much you use your septic system.
Frozen Water
During the colder months, the water in the septic lines can freeze up. This happens when the pipes are cracked or improperly insulated.
Inconsistent Usage
If a septic system has had an extended period of time where it has received little or no use then it could be the cause of the clogging of your lines. If the water stops flowing then the solids will congregate over time causing the system to back up.
Foreign Objects
It goes without saying that you should never flush garbage down your toilet. This goes for items such as paper towels which are designed to absorb water rather than deteriorate when exposed to it. Items that are not designed to be put into drains should stay out of drains!
Overwork
Not using your septic system enough is one thing; however, you can also overwork it if you are not careful. Constantly putting new things into its circulation does not give the bacteria the time it needs to break down the foods and other solids that enter the line.
Symptoms of a Clogged Drain
When you have a clogged drain or pipe, you will almost always experience at least one of two things.
A Foul Odor
An unpleasant aroma coming from the sink, toilet, drain, etc. usually means that there is an equally unpleasant item blocking the path in the pipes. In sinks, it is generally food that is holding up traffic. In toilets, it could be that someone flushed something they shouldn’t have or maybe they really unloaded and should have used a mid-session flush.
Water Going the Wrong Way
Naturally, water is supposed to wash down the drain, not come back up. If your sink or shower is taking a long time to train, something is backing up.
Even though a clogged line is usually due to something that was put down the drain, sometimes, the root of the problem lies deep in the heart (and pipes) of the septic system. Tree roots might be causing your septic backup. If that’s the case, then you will definitely need to call a professional.
Frozen septic lines might also be the problem. If your pipes are buried at the proper depth, they can freeze during the winter, keeping water from flowing freely.
Tips for Clearing a Clogged Drain
Before you call your septic company, there are some things you can try yourself that might clear clogged septic lines.
Avoid cleaners with chemicals
Chemical-laden cleaners often break down the enzymes in your septic system, which are in place to help break down waste. Instead, use a septic-safe drain cleaner that is free of harsh chemicals. It is always wise to keep such a cleaner in the house for emergencies.
Pour hot water down the drain.
Especially in kitchen sinks, the rush of hot water is often enough to loosen or dissolve any obstruction in the pipes. Before taking any professional action, see if boiling water helps clear clogged septic lines.
Use baking soda and vinegar.
If water alone does not do the trick, try dissolving the blockage by using a baking soda and vinegar reaction. Put a few spoonfuls of baking soda down the drain, following it with a cup of vinegar. The fizzy explosion helps break down waste and make things flow again.
Nothing is Working!
If you are unable to clear the clogged drain on your own, it could be that the root of the problem is too deep. A pipe in the septic system might be collapsing, or there could be a larger obstruction than just-food. In these instances, it is important that you call on the services of a professional.
Call the Professionals
Norway Septic Inc. is a service-oriented company dedicated to providing excellent septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to homeowners and business owners in the Michiana area. We take pride in doing the job that others leave behind. ” Our motto stands, “they pump, we clean!”
With over 40 years of experience, we know septic systems and can handle just about any septic emergency, including a clogged drain or septic line. Call us if you suspect that there are any problems with your system.
How Can Norway Septic Help?
Norway Septic Inc. is a service-oriented company dedicated to providing excellent septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to homeowners and business owners in the Michiana area. We take pride in doing the job that others leave behind. If you need a new effluent filter or if you would like to schedule a septic tank cleaning by one of our professionals, call us today.
