It can be frustrating, but sink drains can clog easily with soap scum, hair and other types of matter. Usually it does not take long for the homeowner to clear a clog, even without the help of a plumber. Unfortunately, they sometimes a drain will continue to run out slowly even after all the necessary steps have been taken. Here are a few reasons why you may have this problem in your home.
- A blockage in the main sewer line. Most people don’t think about their sewer lines until they start to have persistent drainage problems. The source of the blockage could be a tree root that has made its way into the drain. Objects not intended for drains frequently end up causing blockages when they get flushed into the system.
- Damaged or deteriorating pipes. Older sewer pipes were not produced according to current standards, so many of them have begun to corrode or fall apart. This creates openings for rodents, earth or tree roots to get into the system Any of these can slow the flow of wastewater from the house.
- Blocked vents in the system. The vent pipe sends air into the system to help the flow of water. When the vent gets blocked, the flow can slow down or stop. A blockage can be caused by debris or a small animal getting into the system.
When the problem is not inside the home, only a thorough inspection of the sewer system will show what is happening. This is possible with a video camera inspection. The plumbing technician will send a camera attached to a cable into the lines. The camera can go in any direction necessary to explore the sewer system.
Using a monitor, the technician can view the camera footage in real time. The source of the blockage will be pointed out to the homeowner, and the technician will outline the course of action necessary to deal with the situation.
One of the biggest advantages of this method is that it eliminates the need for costly excavation to look for the source of the problem. Once the area is pinpointed, the digging can focus there so the repairs will be quicker with less disruption to your routine. If there is a clog in your sewer line, avoid using chemical products as these will have no effect. Call me at 310-644-9757 for full inspection of the system so that repairs can done in a timely manner.
