Common Causes of Plumbing Blockages
If you’ve been a homeowner for any length of time, you’ve probably experienced a plumbing blockage that needed drain cleaning. While these aren’t uncommon, they are frustrating, and oftentimes, they can be prevented. If they are left unattended, however, or if there is a large blockage, your entire plumbing system can get backed up and cause problems for your entire house.
While there are many DIY savvy homeowners, when it comes to plumbing blockages, they’re not all created the same. Although you might be able to fix one with a simple plunger job, if the issue persists or you’re having difficulty removing it, it may be time to contact the pros. This article will cover some of the common causes of blocked plumbing and what you can do to get it fixed once and for all.
Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Plumbing
While most homeowners pay attention to indoor plumbing problems, outdoor plumbing fixtures often get forgotten. Outdoor plumbing needs just as much attention, care, and concern, however. If left unattended, you could end up with problems with your sewer line, main water line, hoses, sinks, and sprinklers.Each of these is an outdoor plumbing fixture that is just as susceptible to damage as indoor plumbing. You could encounter sewer blockages, water main leaks, hose leaks and cracks where water connects to the hose, underground sprinkler system breakage, and sink clogs. Since all home plumbing is interconnected, if you have problems with one area, you’ll have issues with other areas as well.
Why Is Outdoor Plumbing Getting Clogged, and What Can This Lead To?
Now that you know what kind of problems can occur with outdoor plumbing, dive into the reasons why these things occur. Sewer blockages can result from numerous reasons including encroaching tree roots, dirt, and products that shouldn’t be flushed down your toilet. Unfortunately, preventing clogs is possible, but when not done it can lead to even more issues.
Watermain leaks can occur if the city waterline receives damage after a storm or earthquake. They are also susceptible to tree roots and cracking due to age.
Hose leaks can occur at the faucet where your hose is connected if the hose is old and the threading has worn away. The faucet can also crack with age and if water froze inside the pipe during winter.
Underground sprinkler systems can be damaged by heavy equipment passing on top of them, animals chewing through the lines, and tree roots wedging their way into the line. Age can also cause these pipes to deteriorate and crack.
Hydrojetting Can Save the Day!
For especially significant clogs, a plumbers snake might not be powerful enough to do the trick. Even an automatic snake might not have enough power to get the clog unstuck. If this happens, plumbers will use a technique called hydrojetting.Hydrojetting can be used for nearly any type of clog, no matter how large or compacted. This technique even works on compacted tree roots. To perform this service, plumbers will place a line into your plumbing which is attached to high-pressure water. This water will shoot out and effectively cut through any debris or blockage there is.
The most stubborn blockages can typically be removed with this technique. When the blockage is cut through, the material will be forced down the pipes and into the sewer system, leaving your pipes clean and free-flowing. After the service is performed, your pipes will be thoroughly cleaned anywhere the service was conducted.
Trusted, Professional Plumbers
Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. provides top-notch plumbing services in Colonial Heights, VA for all. They offer services provided by knowledgable technicians with over ten years of experience and a satisfaction guarantee. For same-day servicing, competitive pricing, and professional service, Colonial is there for you.
