Outdoor Plumbing Clogs: Where To Start?
The outdoor plumbing system comprises a pipe network that keeps water clean and accessible for homeowners. Like the drains in home showers, outdoor pipes can also become clogged. Blockages from outside debris, such as lawn clippings or bark, eventually lead to water contamination. A professional plumber is recommended for both inspection and maintenance.
Signs of Outdoor Plumbing Blockages
Underground plumbing systems are not built to last forever. Since underground plumbing clogs are invisible, homeowners should pay close attention to their property. Even if there aren’t any cracks in the piping, clogs can still occur from the outdoor elements.
Lawns that are perpetually wet even when it’s not raining may be experiencing the effects of an outdoor drainage clog. Plant life will usually look more vibrant in certain yard areas, and grass will likely grow faster in saturated areas. In part, this is due to hydration. Plants also thrive because of the nutrients found in the leaking sewer line.
Strong odors are also associated with outdoor clogs. This may be noticeable on the property as well as inside the home. Shower and sink drains can smell sewage if the outdoor pipes are not functioning.
Clogged toilets are another common problem. If the clog is deep within the plumbing system, this can be due to a lack of flushable water. Underground plumbing blockages will usually cause more than one toilet to clog. This may affect the water level inside the bowl.
Strange gurgling noises should not occur in the kitchen or bathroom sinks. If homeowners hear a trickling sound whenever the toilet is flushed, this is usually caused by tree root damage.
How Do Pipes Become Clogged?
To clear tough clogs, plumbers must first understand what’s causing the issue. In addition to the usual culprits, such as foreign objects or hair, outdoor pipe clogs can be caused by invasive tree roots.
Invasive tree roots are a common issue for residential properties. Many homeowners will plant trees without knowing where their sewer line is located. As the trees grow, their roots expand toward the natural nutrients in the sewer line.
Tree roots usually grow inside small cracks in the pipeline. Once they are large enough, these roots can rupture the pipe. Hydro jetting is one-way plumbers can get rid of roots to prevent outdoor plumbing clogs.
Mineral buildup is another reason underground pipes clog. This happens when hard water with excess amounts of magnesium and iron forms a tough layer of scum. Plumbers may insert tiny cameras into the pipes to find out the exact cause of the buildup.
Plumbing Solutions
Licensed plumbers have the equipment and skillset to safely clear underground blockages. The drain snake and the hydro jet are two of the most valuable resources used.
Drain snakes are also called drain augers designed to clear clogs by breaking up the debris. Drain snaking can obliterate tough blockages but may not get rid of the entire sediment left behind. Certain drain snakes have an electric drill for especially tough clogs.
Hydro jetting is used to clean heavy buildup from sewer lines. This technique involves using highly pressurized water to blast away grime and blockages. Because the water is so powerful, this can remove clogs quickly.
To prevent outdoor plumbing clogs, homeowners should schedule a routine plumbing inspection. Annual plumbing maintenance can not only help prevent underground plumbing clogs, but it can also save money on future water bills.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing employs fully-trained technicians that help homeowners find a personalized solution for their plumbing system. To learn more about their plumbing service, 100% satisfaction guarantee, and financing options, call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Northfield, MN.
