Are your water pipes draining slowly? Over time, the interior of your pipes can become filled with bacteria and minerals which can clog your pipes completely.

Clogging can impact everything from the water flow in your business to the overall quality of your showers. Luckily, there are a few simple ways that you can fix common clogs on your own, saving you the cost of a plumber’s visit.

Take a look at a simple guide to troubleshooting clogged pipes to get your water flowing again!

Clear Out Standing Water

Clear out any standing water inside the pipe by using a plunger, hydrojetting, or any other solution that will work best for your pipes. Once the water has been removed, examine the clog to determine the cause.

If the clog is more severe, a plumber will be needed to snake the pipes and make repairs. If a clog is still present after troubleshooting, it’s likely the problem lies deeper within the piping system.

Remove Visible Blockages

Start from the drain opening and try to move the blockage further along the pipe, but be careful not to push it in too far or you could risk damaging the pipe. After the blockage is cleared, run hot water to make sure the clog is completely gone.

If not, the next step is to use an overnight enzyme cleaner. Pour the cleaner down the drain and allow it to work for up to 24 hours. It should break down the organic material that is blocking the pipe.

Plunge It Out

First, you’ll need an adjustable wrench, a bucket, and a plunger. Start by turning off the water to the pipe that’s clogged and stand the plunger in a bucket of water. Next, place the plunger over the drain and push it up and down rapidly. If the clog persists, attach an adjustable wrench and try to unclog a pipe using gently alternating clockwise and counterclockwise pressure.

Finally, turn the water back on, and the clog should be gone. If not, repeat the process until the clog is cleared. Troubleshooting clogged drains don’t have to be a headache, be sure to tackle the clog confidently and effectively.

Clean The P-Trap

The P-trap is located at the bend in the drain pipe under the sink. Below, place a bucket or pail to capture any water or debris. Loosen and gently wiggle the slip nut on the trap arm and assembly.

Remove any obstructions caught here and reinstall, but don’t overtighten the slip nuts—a quarter turn with a wrench and hand tightening is sufficient.

Snake The Drain

When it comes to troubleshooting and unclogging your pipes, snaking the drain is definitely one of the most effective and reliable solutions you can use. Use a plumbing snake to clear any blockages. This is typically done from either under the drain or with a hose.

If the clogs persist or become more severe, you may need to try a device such as an auger, as a last resort.

Clean Clogged Pipes Now

Troubleshooting clogged pipes is a process that requires patience and experience. Utilize the steps presented in this guide to help you out in case you face a clogged pipe in the future.

With proper knowledge and the right tools, you can make sure your pipes always remain pristine and clear. Don’t hesitate to invest in technology that can save you precious time.

Start troubleshooting today!

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