Fighting sewer blockages. How to clear clogged pipes at home: the best cleaning products and methods

Time does not pass without leaving a mark on sewer pipes, which is reflected in the appearance of deposits in them. At the same time, the properties and nature of the movement of wastewater largely determine the speed at which it will appear. Due to the presence of layers on the walls, the pipes acquire a smaller open cross-section. This leads to a decrease in throughput and clogging of the sewer system. In addition, sedimentation causes difficulties in drainage. It turns into a favorable environment for sulfate-reducing bacteria, which actively multiply in it. At the same time, the waste products they form have negative impact on pipes, reducing their service life.

Preventing blockages

• Among possible methods in preventing sewer blockages, there is no equal in reliability to the use of filter plugs placed on the drain holes and the implementation of preventive measures, which include flushing it.

The desired effect can be achieved if you clean the drain holes weekly with one cup of soda, followed by vinegar. After waiting for foam to appear in the pipe, you need to pour it with hot water.

Determining the blockage

In case of blockages, the procedure is determined by the specifics of the blockage.

1. If water cannot escape through the drain hole in only one plumbing fixture, then it is clear that the resulting blockage is local in nature.
2. If a similar picture is observed with all plumbing fixtures, then it is likely that the main pipe is clogged.

Removing local sewer blockage

1. It may also be that the blockage can be dealt with if the drain hole is well poured with boiling water. By using this method Fat deposits can be easily removed.
2. An alternative solution would be to remove the siphon, the main task of which is to filter suspended particles, and clean it. When dismantling it, it is important to do everything very carefully and make sure that during reassembly all parts remain in place and are intact.
3. If this attempt is unsuccessful, it makes sense to resort to chemicals to clean the drain. Most cleaners contain the main active ingredient - alkali. With the help of such cleaners you can deal with fatty deposits.
4. If there is a suspicion that the sewer is clogged due to hair trapped there, then an acid cleaner can help. It is unacceptable to pour any of these drugs into a pipe where there is a serious blockage that does not allow even a drop of water to seep out. The fact is that there is a risk that the cleaner may splash back, causing a burn.

In addition to the above, it is prohibited to add acids to alkalis. It is possible that this could lead to a very violent reaction. If you are going to remove blockages using chemicals, you must follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

We use a plunger

It should be remembered that a simple device called a plunger can come to the rescue in the fight against blockages. To make it easier to deal with blockages, you need to apply a layer of Vaseline or other thick lubricant to the edges of the plunger and then start cleaning the drain.
It is important that the entire bowl of the plunger is submerged in water. When placing it on the drain hole, you must first remove the air from the bowl.

How to solve the problem if all means are powerless against blockages? In this case, there can only be one way out - use a plumbing cable. One end of this device provides a handle, and the other has a tip made in the form of a drill or brush.


The cable is often used by professionals, and to achieve the desired results you need to have certain skills in working with it. It can also navigate turns, but it is important to use caution and moderation here - they can damage the pipe if it is made of plastic. If you doubt whether you will be able to cope with the blockages, or you do not have a cable at your disposal, then in this case it is recommended to entrust this work to a plumber.

Removing blockages from main pipes

In principle, similar methods are used here to combat blockages. The specificity lies in the use professional equipment, special equipment and industrial cleaning products. The industrial sewer pumping method is based on the use of high pressure and temperature. A clogged drain is not a good reason to panic. With such an attitude, people act thoughtlessly, and as a result, everything ends in even bigger problems.

Probably, many in their lives have encountered such an economic necessity as cleaning sewer pipes. The main reason why blockages form in pipes is the accumulation of household waste: hair, soap, grease, etc. There are simple ways self-cleaning of sewer pipes using basic tools and available materials. At the right approach You can remove blockages with your own hands, without seeking the help of qualified plumbers. How to do this, read our article.

How to properly remove blockages

Use of household products

For self-cleaning of sewer pipes to be effective and fruitful, you need to act in the following sequence ( recipe No. 1):

1. Clear the drain hole of accumulated debris. You can pour 1 liter of boiling water into it and leave for 15 minutes.
2. Apply the plunger.
3. Pour 1 cup of soda into the drain hole and fill it with boiling water in a 1:3 ratio.

The described procedure can be repeated several times if necessary. Baking soda forms sewer pipes alkaline environment, facilitating easy removal of blockages. It will not only clean the inside of the pipes, but also disinfect the pipes and sink.

You can use another method of dealing with blockages ( recipe No. 2):

1. IN equal parts(½ cup each) pour into the pipes baking soda and pour in table distilled vinegar.
2. As a result of mixing substances, a chemical reaction will occur, accompanied by the formation large quantity foam. In view of this, it is recommended to close the drain hole with a stopper and leave for 2 hours.
3. After the specified time has passed, remove the plug and pour a little boiling water into the pipes.

By using this method deposits on the inner surface of the pipe are dissolved, and powerful cleaning occurs.

Cleaning sewer pipes is also possible using salt and soda ( recipe No. 3):

1. Pour the ingredients (½ cup each) into the pipes through the hole.
2. Add boiling water and leave for 8-10 hours. During the specified period of time, do not allow anything to flow into the pipe.

As you know, it is better to prevent a disease than to treat it. The same applies to sewer blockages: periodic prevention removes accumulated waste and does not give it the opportunity to “grow” into big problem. To prevent the formation of blockages, it is enough to sometimes pour boiling water into the pipes; it dissolves soap and grease.

Or you can use this method ( recipe No. 4):

1. Combine 1 cup salt, 1 cup baking soda and ¼ cup cream of tartar. After thoroughly mixing the components, place the mixture in a tightly sealed container.
2. Periodically pour the mixture into the hole and fill it with boiling water.
3. After 1 minute, rinse the drain with cold water.

Chemicals

In addition to homemade mixtures, there are other ways to clean sewer pipes. On the shelves of modern stores you can find a variety of ready-made chemicals that help fight blockages in pipes: from the affordable “Mole” powder produced in Russia to expensive gels produced in Germany. If you are in doubt about what to use to clean your pipes, know that in the fight against grease blockages, any of these products will be a winner. The main thing is to read the instructions on how to clean the pipes with the chosen preparation.

On the label of its products, the manufacturer indicates that it is enough to pour the substance into the pipes and wait for a while.

Pro tip:

However, in practice it often turns out that this is not enough and the use of a plunger is additionally required. With its help, dissolved chemical reagents the clog leaves the pipes and goes into the sewer.

Plunger in the fight against blockages

The ingenious invention of mankind, the plunger, can safely be called the most effective means fight against blockages. A plunger is a manual and most popular plumbing equipment for cleaning sewer pipes. It perfectly clears clogged pipes coming from the sink, bathtub and toilet from blockages. The principle of operation of the device is a double action on garbage:

• strong pressure at which the blockage begins to move inside the pipe;
• destruction of the blockage.

When accumulated waste breaks down, it sometimes comes out of the pipes and can be easily removed.

A positive result in eliminating blockages is achieved only if you know how to clean pipes with a plunger correctly.

This is done like this:

1. If there is an overflow hole in the pipeline, close it tightly (with a lid, rag, etc.) to prevent the pressure on the blockage from being reduced.
2. Place the plunger over the drain hole and press the rubber part firmly against it. When working through a clog with a plunger, make sure that the water level in the sink (bathtub) is above the rubber valve.
3. Make rhythmic forward movements with the plunger without lifting the rubber element from the drain of the sink (bathtub, toilet).
4. Pull the plunger sharply away from the hole.

Cleaning sewer pipes using a cable

Cleaning cable

It happens that a blockage has formed in the depths of the sewer, and you do not know how to clean the sewer pipes. Then specialized equipment will come to the rescue.

The most common and accessible view One such plumbing tool is a flexible shaft or cable for cleaning sewer pipes. It is made of steel wire and is an elastic but easily bendable long spring. At one end of the flexible shaft there is a metal handle for ease of use, at the opposite end there is a spiral that serves to secure various replaceable attachments (scraper, brush, hook, etc.).

Instructions for use of plumbing cable

• visual inspection of the instrument - allows you to identify a violation of integrity;
• checking the reliability of the handle;
• if necessary, lubricating the bushings that make up the handle;
• quality control of installation of replaceable nozzles (if any).

If you are convinced that the hose is working properly, proceed to cleaning the pipes:

1. Taking the handle in your hands, guide the other end of the cable into the sewer pipe. In this case, the siphon can be removed from the sink, this will improve the quality of pipe cleaning.
2. Make rotational movements with the cable, trying to push the shaft as deep as possible. Translational movements allow the tool to quickly and without interference overcome bends and bends in the sewer pipeline. However, excessive pressure on the cable may cause it to break or damage it. inner part pipes.

Pro tip:

When you need to give a large torque to the plumbing cable, rotate the handle strictly clockwise. Otherwise, the flexible shaft may break and unravel.

1. Having felt the blockage, increase the intensity of rotation of the cable: this will push the debris through. If the flexible shaft has a hook attachment, hook the debris and pull it out.
2. As soon as the water begins to flow down the drain, turn on the hot water. Flush the pipes with a weak stream of water, gradually increasing the pressure.
3. Evaluate the result: if a funnel forms when draining the water, the sewer system has been cleaned correctly.

Pro tip:

It happens that plumbing cable gets stuck in a sewer pipe. In this case, slowly rotate it to the left or right until you overcome the obstacle.

Most often, at least one of the described techniques allows you to cope with something clogged in the pipes. household waste. However, if you have tried all cleaning methods, but the blockage is still not removed, contact a specialist for help. Plumbers, as a rule, have more powerful methods of cleaning sewer pipes, capable of flushing pipes under high pressure and removing the most difficult blockage. In addition, masters have specific skills and know what manipulations are best to use.

Removing blockages in pipes on your own at home is not as difficult a task as it seems at first glance. To do this you can try using: traditional methods, and specialized chemicals.

The most effective ways to get rid of blockages will be discussed in our material.

A clogged pipe is a fairly common problem, and if you encounter it, you should not panic and look for the phone number of a plumber. Very often you can handle it yourself, saving time and money.

Before cleaning pipes, it is important to understand where exactly the blockage has formed. This directly affects the choice of method to solve the problem.

To determine the approximate location of the blockage, open the water and see how it “disappears”:

• The water is receding very slowly– most likely, the plug is more than a meter away from the drain. With such a problem, the most in the best possible way will be the use of a special metal cable.
• Water drops to a certain level, and then everything remains unchanged - the blockage is located in the area from the siphon to the first turn. In this case, it will be enough to use either traditional methods or chemical means.
• The liquid doesn't go away at all– in 90% of cases the siphon is clogged with fatty deposits. The best option To cope with contamination will be manual cleaning of the pipeline.

These are the most common ways to identify where the problem is.

Once you have found out exactly where the blockage has formed, you can begin to remove it.

Popular folk methods

Method number 6 - salt and soda

To dissolve the fat plug, use soda and salt. Take 300 g of each component, mix and dissolve in hot water - you need to get a highly concentrated solution. It is important to achieve complete dissolution of the components.

Pour the mixture down the drain and wait 15 minutes and turn on the water briefly. If you cannot solve the problem the first time, perform the procedure again. Only this time, in ready-made composition additionally add 15-20 ml of vinegar.

Method No. 7 - Alka-Seltzer tablets

Instead of soda and salt, you can use Alka-Seltzer effervescent tablets. They have repeatedly proven their effectiveness.

To remove the plug you will need to take 2 tablets and place them in the drain. Pour the tablets with a glass of vinegar and 50 ml of water. Leave everything for a couple of minutes and then rinse with hot water.

Please note that Alka-Seltzer tablets are sold in regular pharmacies. They are affordable and available without a prescription.

Method No. 8 - washing powder

In the fight against mild dirt and to prevent blockages, housewives use washing powder. Agree, it will definitely be found in every home.

To combat blockages, it is important to use granular, rather than liquid, laundry detergent. Only the first option will help to effectively solve the problem.

It is taken in the amount of 2 measuring spoons and poured into the drain. Then the hot one turns on running water for 5 minutes. After this time, the plug should disappear.

Let's turn to chemicals

If you don’t have time to experiment with folk remedies, then you can use specialized mixtures that are sold in any supermarket, in the household chemicals. They are affordable and highly effective.

Radical solutions to the problem

When the blockage cannot be cleared using folk remedies and chemicals, it is worth trying to deal with it using mechanical methods.

Option No. 1 – vacuum cleaner

You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove clogs. However, the device must have a blowing function. If you are the owner of such equipment, then first wrap the end of the device hose with a loose rag. It is very important to fix it well.

Press the hose firmly against the drain hole and turn on the vacuum cleaner to maximum. A powerful stream of air will push out the plug formed in the pipe.

Using a vacuum cleaner is effective when the problem is no more than 1 meter from the drain hole.

Option No. 2 – plunger

To bleed the drain, use a plunger, which can be manual or mechanical. This device is sure to be found in every home. It helps create strong pressure inside the pipe, causing the blockage to break up or pump deeper.

While pumping, move the plunger back and forth without lifting the bowl from the drain. Do several approaches, and then remove the plunger and evaluate the effectiveness of the work. If the liquid drains slowly, you will have to repeat everything all over again.

Before working with a plunger, it is advisable to lubricate its edges with grease or Vaseline. This will ensure tighter contact with the sink.

Option No. 3 - plumbing cable

When a plug has formed on the bends of pipes or far away in communications, a plumbing cable is used. It can be used to hook and pull out a clog or clear it out.

The process of cleaning pipes with a cable begins with dismantling the siphon. Do not try to work the cable directly through the plumbing drain hole. Only by removing the siphon will you have free access to the sewer system.

After installing the cable in the pipe, begin to screw it clockwise, trying to slowly push it forward. Act smoothly and gradually, avoiding sudden movements.

When you encounter resistance, turn the device until it continues to move. After this, you can put the siphon in place and flush the system.

Not everyone has a plumbing cable, but if you want, you can buy it at any plumbing store.

In addition, you can build this device with your own hands from plastic bottle and improvised materials.

The instructions are as follows:

1. Cover the bottle from top to bottom with strips of tape to form a spiral.
2. Draw lines along the border of the adhesive tape with a colored marker.
3. Cut the bottle along the marks you made.
4. Be sure to leave the bottom - it will act as a handle.
5. Make small cuts along the resulting spiral.
6. Insert a homemade cable into the drain and push it through, slowly holding it by the “handle”. Due to the notches, debris will cling to it, this way it will be possible to overcome the traffic jam.

This device is only suitable for plugs that are not too far from the siphon.

For blockages at great depths, steel wire with a diameter of 5-6 mm is used. One end of it is bent with a hook.

Option No. 4 - disassembling and cleaning the siphon

As was said at the beginning of the article, in 90% of cases the water does not pass beyond the sink due to a clogged siphon.

The cleaning procedure is as follows:

• Spread an unnecessary rag on the floor that absorbs water well. It should be directly under the siphon.
• Place a basin under the sink into which the liquid will subsequently be drained.
• Unscrew the lock nut that secures the siphon tube.
• Remove the siphon. Remove all dirt from it (this is convenient to do with a brush), and then rinse thoroughly under running water.
• Pour a solution of soda and vinegar into the pipe connected to the sewer. When the reaction is complete, pour in an additional 150 ml of vinegar. Repeat this procedure several times.
• After 15-20 minutes, pour several liters into the pipe hot water and wait 5 minutes.
• Reinstall the siphon and tighten the lock nut.

As a rule, if you follow the instructions given, you will be able to deal with the blockage the first time.

Preventing blockages

Most common reason sewer clog - grease. It gradually accumulates on the walls of pipes after washing dishes, especially if you wash them in cold water or you are using a low-quality detergent.

The best prevention is installation. It is a small structure with two sections that is attached to the sink. The principle of its operation is that first, water with particles of dirt and grease enters the first section of the device, where the liquid is cleaned of debris.

In the second section of the structure, the water is cleared of fat and only after that it enters the sewer pipes, which ensures trouble-free operation of the water supply system.

Once a week, use a solution of vinegar and soda as a preventative measure. This simple method will not only protect your pipes from blockages, but also prevent unpleasant odors.

Preventing blockages also involves a number of other measures. Before washing, remove any particles of food stuck to the dishes. It is important to avoid any leftover food going down the drain. By sticking to the pipes, they subsequently become the cause of all sewerage problems.

Also, do not pour fat remaining after cooking down the drain - it must be disposed of separately, otherwise problems with blockages cannot be avoided.

Make it a rule not to throw hair from a comb, paper, etc. into the toilet. various items. Additionally, install a special protective mesh on the drain.

Once every 2 weeks, turn on the hot water at full pressure for 1-2 hours. Also, use a plunger regularly.

At least once a month, use one of the specialized products that are sold in household chemicals departments. This simple prevention will help you forget about traffic jams in your pipes.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Modern ways to deal with blockages in pipes:

The main types of sewer cleaning at home:

You can clear the blockage yourself using different ways- it all depends on what exactly caused the problem, at what distance from the drain the plug is located.

In any case, everyone can deal with the blockage on their own. In the future, preventive measures should be taken to avoid reoccurrence such a problem.

Perhaps you know others effective ways removing blockages in pipes? Please tell our readers about them. Leave your comments in the block below.

Anyone in their apartment may experience such a nuisance as clogged pipes. To combat it, you can use a wide variety of means: a proven plunger, plumbing cable, soda ash or chemicals with acids and alkalis. For those who cannot tolerate various types of chemicals, you need to take drugs with bacteria, then you don’t have to be afraid of allergic reactions.

But the most important thing is prevention, which needs to be carried out on time, and maintaining cleanliness.

How to choose the ideal solution for clogged pipes? Let's consider this issue in more detail.

Why does blockage occur, how to avoid this problem?

The problem of clogged pipes is familiar to every homeowner. Why does it occur, and for some people constantly:

Before you start cleaning the pipes, the most common questions arise: “What can I use to quickly and effectively clear the blockage?”, “Which product is the best?”, “Will the drug damage the pipes?”, “What is better to buy: gel or solution?". Let's look at the basic tools that will help you quickly solve the clog problem that has arisen.

In total there are 4 main types of funds:

What are they made of?

Any product always contains alkalis and acids. Alkali perfectly dissolves any fats and accumulation of small debris. These products are ideal for the kitchen sink.

The acid composition is used to remove soap scum and lime deposits. This product is ideal for the bathroom.

One of the most frequently asked questions is: “Is this acidic or alkaline cleaner harmful to the pipe?” As a rule, such preparations are created by chemists who have studied in detail any effect of the products on pipes made from the most various materials. Therefore, before you begin cleansing, you need to read the instructions. In it you can find the answer to the question posed: “Is it possible to use this tool for PVC pipes or metal?"

You cannot increase the time of action of the drug on the blockage, otherwise you will have to start unscheduled pipe replacement.

Be sure to read the instructions! This is necessary for correct and safe work with a chemical!

Rating of the best anti-clog remedies

The most famous and widely available remedy. Its effectiveness has been proven for a long time. This substance is currently available in various types: gel, granules and liquid. This alkali-based product removes grease and debris well.

Rules of use:

1. Bring at least 3 liters of water to a boil and pour this amount into the clogged pipe.
2. Mix the liquid well and pour 250 ml into the pipe opening.
3. Don't touch anything for 3 hours.
4. Rinse off the product with water by turning the tap.

In some cases, the water continues to drain with difficulty. Take a plunger and push the now soft remaining dirt out.

Its contents: sodium hypochlorite, chlorine bleach 5 - 15% and nonionic surfactants.

Application:

1. Bring 3 liters of water to a boil and pour into the drain.
2. Fill half of the special glass with Tiret.
3. Pour into the drain hole. Depending on how severe the blockage is, the action time is up to 35 minutes.
4. Rinse again with boiling water.

The disadvantages of Tiret are a strong odor, high fluid consumption and not always positive results.

An excellent product that is ideal for plastic pipes. The advantage is convenient packaging. One sachet weighing 60 grams is required at a time. Homeowners consider the main advantages of the product: convenience, good effect and inexpensive price. If you purchased a red sachet, its contents dissolve in hot water. Cool water is also perfect for green packaging.

It contains: caustic soda, sodium nitrate, dyes and fragrance.

Application:

1. Open the bag and pour into the drain hole.
2. Pour 250 ml of boiling water there.
3. Wait 15 minutes and wash off the remaining dirt and grains of the substance with boiling water.

Prohibited for use in toilets. When working with Floop, you must follow safety precautions. The product may splash upward and get into your eyes. Another drawback is the strong unpleasant odor.

This product only takes 3 minutes to effectively remove the most difficult clogs. You need to be very careful when working with it. As soon as the product enters chemical reaction, it is ejected to the surface. Do not lean over the sink, as the smell of the substance can be harmful to health. Do not go beyond the dosage and recommended time.

It contains only 2 components: sodium hydroxide and surfactant.

Operating instructions:

1. Remove accumulated liquid from the sink using a syringe or a regular rag. 5 cm is the permissible distance from the mesh to the water level.
2. Pour 100 grams of the substance into the drain.
3. Leave everything alone for 3 minutes.
4. Pour 250 ml of hot water into it.

Disadvantage: very caustic. Be careful not to get the product on adjacent surfaces, especially corrugation and enamel.

A very popular remedy among housewives. It is ideal for removing any blockages in the drains coming from the kitchen or bath. This soft solution will not harm expensive plumbing fixtures and pipes made of plastic and metal. It does not have a pungent odor, but the result takes a long time to arrive.

It contains: sodium hydroxide and filler.

Usage:

1. Remove all water from around the drain.
2. Pour the contents of the sachet into the drain or sink.
3. Wait half an hour. After this, pour a glass of hot water into the pipe, then turn on the tap and rinse the drain thoroughly. If the plug is large, the contents are left for 12 hours.
4. If there is no effect, cleaning must be repeated.

The disadvantage is that Mr Muscle is too expensive.

For those who do not want to use chemicals, you can offer products that contain live bacteria. These drugs are not harmful, non-toxic and do not affect human health at all. Ideal for those who suffer from asthma or allergic diseases.

The most famous trade marks, producing the following drugs: Probiotica in Progress (PiP), Binatec, Chrisal, HD Unblocking, etc.

How probiotics work

Bacteria, penetrating into the pipes, begin to absorb fatty deposits, accumulated food residues, and small debris. At the same time, all harmful microorganisms are destroyed, and the terrible smell disappears.

The microflora of probiotics prevents the number of microbes in the sewer from increasing and protects the metal from corrosion.

The main composition of this useful product:

• lacto- and bifidobacteria;
• lactic acid bacteria;
• acidobacteria;
• organic.

This drug is easy to use. It is enough to shake the can and dilute the composition in accordance with the recommendations specified in the instructions. Pour the contents into the hole in the pipe and leave for 12 hours. To achieve greater effect, you can repeat the procedure after a few days.

If you prefer to remove blockages using proven traditional methods, then you should use the following recipes:

1 way

This excellent remedy for prevention. It is advisable to carry out this cleansing once a week. To do this, remove the remaining water from the sink and pour 100 grams of soda ash into the hole. Leave for 30 minutes. After this, we wash away all the accumulated dirt and the resulting congestion with water pressure.

Soda ash is an excellent substance for removing mold, cleaning pots and pans from carbon deposits, and washing things. If you don’t have ash powder on hand, you can use regular soda and increase its quantity.

One of the best ways to combat limescale and fat deposits. The disadvantage of this method is the release of toxic chlorine. Therefore, when working with this substance, you should open the windows, cover the drain hole with a rag and leave the room.

Stages of work:

1. We pump out excess water.
2. Pour a mixture of soda ash and regular soda into the hole. You need to take 50 grams of each powder.
3. After 30 minutes, pour in 150 ml of 9% vinegar.
4. Immediately after this, add 150 ml of chlorine bleach to the pipe.
5. Leave the room.
6. Wait 30 minutes, then enter the room and open the water tap. Make sure the clog is cleared.

Once the pipes are clear, you should ventilate the room well and continue to use the plumbing as before.

In order to completely dissolve lime deposits, you need to apply citric acid. It will effectively remove plaque from the bathroom. To start the procedure, you need to pour 50 grams of acid into the drain and pour in 250 ml of very hot water.

Owners of country houses

In those households where there is no sewerage system and basic amenities are located on the street, it is recommended to carry out cleaning using septic tanks or local treatment plants. In this case, the processing of fecal matter occurs with the help of special microorganisms.

Chemicals should not be used as this will destroy microorganisms that help in waste management. Restoring their livelihoods will be problematic and costly.

Therefore, well-known cleaners based on living bacteria are used to clean cesspools.

Terms of use

1. Dilute the solution exactly as written in the instructions.
2. Pour into cesspool or pipe.
3. Try not to use this toilet or sewer for a day. All this time, bacteria will break down fats and dissolve all accumulated debris.
4. If the pipe you were cleaning is also clogged, use a plunger.

This is the simplest and most environmentally friendly way to remove blockages in any type of sewer. It is based on bacteria that actively destroy all blockages. But you need to know that microorganisms begin to act only at higher temperatures.

So, in order to quickly and successfully clean the sewer, you can use mechanical methods (cable or plunger) or pour in chemicals that contain acids and alkalis. Or you can use proven folk recipes. Solutions that contain living microorganisms are perfect for septic tanks.

Typically, plumbing does not cause problems for the owner, but only until a blockage occurs. Many of us have long been accustomed to removing a blockage in a sewer pipe with our own hands.

Methods used to eliminate blockages that have arisen in the sewer system of private and apartment building, are not too different from each other. This unpleasant situation arises due to the accumulation of fatty deposits on the inner walls of the pipes.

Causes of clogged sewer pipes

More often than others, those owners who have pipes installed in their house have to carry out unscheduled pipe cleaning. cast iron sewer, with high resistance to runoff. Over time, corrosion begins to affect its walls, which leads to the appearance of irregularities and deposits that interfere with the natural flow of water.

Another reason for blockages in pipes may be rare cleaning sewer system. With frequent use detergents containing surfactants, they begin to accumulate fat deposits over time.

They gradually attract small particles to themselves, which negatively affects throughput pipes But sometimes the sewerage system can fail in the entire house at once. In this case, the problem may be that a foreign object has entered the pipe.

In some cases, a decrease in the speed of water flow through a pipeline system may be caused by soil displacement, freezing, or damage to the sewer system. IN plastic pipes The most common cause of blockage is improper sewer assembly and failure to comply with the required slope.

The need for unscheduled sewer pipe cleaning may arise if the following signs are present:

• presence unpleasant odor;
• reducing the speed of water flow;
• rise in the water level at the moment it is turned on in the area under the gratings of the sewer drain.

It is important to start acting as soon as any of the above-described signs appear, otherwise the normal operation of the sewer system will be completely disrupted.

In some cases, a decrease in pipe capacity may occur due to siphon. In this case, you need to disassemble it and make sure that there are no blockages in any of its elements.

In every situation use different methods cleaning pipes Their choice is largely determined by exactly where the pipe is clogged and with what. Therefore, the issue of how to clean the drain in the kitchen should be approached with the utmost seriousness.

Basic cleaning methods

If the speed of water flow through the pipes decreases, you can restore normal operation of the pipeline by cleaning the sewer pipes yourself. But in severe cases, specialist help may be required.

All methods of cleaning sewer pipes can be divided into several types:

1. Chemical.
2. Mechanical.
3. Hydrodynamic.
4. Folk remedies: soda, salt and boiling water, soda and vinegar.

If you use the last of these methods, you can not only eliminate the blockage in the pipes, but also remove unpleasant odors.

At home, you can restore the operation of the pipeline in the kitchen using any of the following methods:

• Soda and salt. Half a cup of soda solution should be poured into the drain hole, followed by half a cup of salt. The products begin to act after about 10 hours.
• Soda and vinegar. To clean the drain hole, add half a cup of soda and the same amount of vinegar, close the hole with a stopper and leave for 2 hours.
• Soda and boiling water. A solution is prepared from one glass of soda and three glasses of boiling water, which is poured into the drain hole. However, you need to use soda and vinegar very carefully, since the combination of these substances causes a violent reaction.

Dry cleaning

Chemicals are equally effective in cleaning the sewer pipes of a private house and a city apartment. But first, you must take safety measures - you must wear gloves, a mask and goggles to remove the blockage. Still follows during the procedure open the windows indoors.

However, we strongly recommend that you use any other, more safe way for cleaning sewer pipes in the kitchen at home. The main active ingredient in chemical preparations is alkali or acid.

It is forbidden to use several products with different chemical compounds. The fact is that as a result of the combination of different components, a violent reaction occurs, which may harm the system. Pipe cleaning must be carried out in accordance with the following scheme:

• measure out required amount product and pour it into the drain hole;
• now you need to pour 0.5 liters of water into the drain;
• wait about 10–15 minutes;
• We rinse the drain with water in a volume of 2-4 buckets to wash away any remaining chemicals.

Copes well with the task of removing blockages in sewer pipes remedy "Mole"" It contains caustic alkali. To use it, you need to take one or two spoons of the substance and dilute it in a glass of hot water, after which the resulting solution is poured into the drain hole. Then, using a plunger, you need to clean the pipe and rinse it with water.

There are also many other products offered in stores. chemicals to remove blockages in sewer pipes. The most famous among them are Domestos, Mr. Muscle, Toffix etc.

Sometimes the pipe can become clogged with a very dense plug. In this case, you even chemicals they won't be able to help. In this case, mechanical cleaning should be used.

Mechanical cleaning

To clear sewer pipe blockages, you can use mechanical method. It involves influencing the plug formed in the pipes using a wire, cable, plunger or brush.

The choice of device will depend on how large the plug has formed in the sewer. To remove a shallow blockage, it is enough to use a brush, which make sudden movements and break the cork.

Recovery normal operation sewerage systems, you can use a plunger:

1. The device is installed on the drain hole.
2. The bathtub or sink is filled with water so that the bowl of the plunger is completely covered with it.
3. Be sure to check that there is no water under it.
4. Continuing to hold the plunger close to the surface of the sink, make 15–25 vertical movements.

It is strongly recommended to use a cable to remove blockages in a sewer pipe only last but not least, since this method is the most difficult. A cable is a device with a rigid structure, which is made in the form of a rod with a cross-section of 3–5 mm made of twisted wire.

To quickly and easily solve the problem, you must follow following rules cable usage:

• Before cleaning, be sure to remove the sink siphon.
• You can only use a cable equipped with a handle.
• The end of the cable must be inserted into the pipe and begin to make rotational movements counterclockwise.
• From time to time you need to pull out the cable for cleaning.
• After successfully clearing the blockages in the sewer, the siphon is installed in place and the system is washed with hot water.

After this you need be sure to turn on the water. If it does not accumulate on the surface and goes away quickly, then the problem is solved. If nothing has changed or the water does not have time to drain into the drain hole, then you need to carry out the above procedure again.

Hydrodynamic cleaning

In removing blockages that have arisen in domestic sewerage, a hydrodynamic machine and pumps that create a powerful jet of liquid can help. Method hydrodynamic cleaning involves the use of devices equipped spiral nozzles of different diameters.

The device is installed next to the sink or toilet, the spiral is inserted into the drain hole, after turning it on starts to spin and breaks through even very dense clogs. The method of hydrodynamic sewer cleaning can only be used for pipes with a cross section of 5–30 cm.

A spiral machine is a device equipped with nozzles of different diameters, which allows you to remove blockages in sewer pipes at home. Before work, the machine is installed opposite the drain hole, and a spiral is inserted into the pipe.

After switching on, the device rotates and breaks through any blockage. A similar technique can be used to combat blockages in private and apartment building. In the absence of a special machine, pipe cleaning can only be done with a spiral, slowly rotating it in one direction.

Hydrodynamic cleaning is using a specialized method removing blockages, involving the use of special devices. Today, almost every house and apartment uses plastic pipes from which sewage systems are assembled.

Most often, blockages occur in turns and bends. Therefore, there is no need to use the same methods for cleaning plastic pipes as for cast iron ones.

If you handle plastic elements carelessly during mechanical cleaning exists risk of damaging communications. Usually it's enough chemical method to remove blockages in plastic pipes, since it is quite effective and safe for structures.

Preventing pipeline blockages

Everyone understands that regular prevention of blockages can save the owner from the need for frequent cleaning of sewer pipes:

In private homes, regardless of the material from which the sewer pipes are made, it is recommended from time to time wash them with vinegar and soda. In some cases, a powerful flow of water, which helps maintain a high flow rate, has a good effect. If necessary, you can use special cleaning products available in gel or granule form.

To prevent blockages in sewer system In a private home, substances are added to the pipes for a certain time, during which they protect their walls from the accumulation of fatty deposits. Preventative treatment drainage with vinegar should be carried out at least once a week.

To maintain in in good condition sewerage in a private house can be use fat separators. They are produced in two types - industrial and household use. To prevent blockages, they are installed under the sink. The device operates in several stages:

1. First, dirty and greasy water enters the filter system, which cleans it of various debris.
2. All fat is removed from the water, after which it enters the sewer pipes.

When carried out regularly preventive measures it is possible to increase the service life of the pipeline, as well as save time and resources. In most cases, you can remove a blockage in the sewer yourself. But if you couldn’t solve the problem yourself, you should immediately call specialists.

Almost every owner is familiar with the problem of blockages in sewer pipes. And when the sewage system stops functioning normally, you have to think about how to break through the blockage in the pipe. In principle, you don’t even need to rack your brains about this - you can find it in stores a lot of means to fight with blockages in pipes.

But at the same time it is known there are a lot of folk remedies, which are able to restore the normal capacity of pipes and get rid of the unpleasant smell of sewage. But the easiest thing is to prevent this from happening at all, and to do this it is enough to regularly carry out preventive measures.