Clogged bathroom sink drain

A clogged bathroom sink drain is a common and one of the most frustrating plumbing problems for homeowners. The bathroom sink is probably the most used fixture in the house. From washing your hands to brushing your teeth to shaving, all of these things are done at the bathroom sink. All of these things create residue that go down the drain eventually causing it to be clogged. If you have a clogged bathroom sink drain, most of the time the clog will be in the trap under the sink and can easily be fixed in just minutes. The only tools you will need is channel lock pliers and something to catch the water in. Just loosen the nuts on the trap to allow the water to drain out. Once the water has drained, remove the trap and clean it out. If the trap is damaged you may have to replace it. Reinstall the trap and there you have it, you have just fixed a clogged bathroom sink drain

Sewer camera inspection

A sewer camera inspection is done by running a specialized video camera down the sewer to check for structural damage or storm water inflow. In a house this sewer is sometimes referred to as the sewer lateral, it leaves the house underground and ties into a bigger main sewer line. Sewer problems are one of the most expensive and most frustrating problems to repair. A common problem in sewer lines are tree roots. A sewer line is a good environment for tree roots, it is an endless supply of water and nutrients. Tree roots actually grow to the sewer looking for a way to get inside the pipe. usually through a joint or crack. Once inside tree roots continue to grow causing blockages and sometimes structural damage. A sewer camera inspection should be done to a sewer line that has a history of backing up. A sewer camera inspection should be done when buying a new home if the home was built prior to 1985. A sewer and drain service company can usually inspect a sewer line for about $175.00 to $225.00.

Using chemicals to clear clogged drains

I don't recommend using chemicals to clear clogged drains. Most chemical drain products are alkalies or acids that cut grease and dissolve clogs. These chemicals can damage your pipes if they are left sitting in a clogged drain. Chemical drain cleaners can also kill bacteria in septic tanks. Bacteria plays a major role in the operation of septic tanks. If you use chemicals in your drains use them sparingly. Use them as a preventative maintenance to help prevent back ups. Use them if you notice any signs of a drain getting ready to back up, such as a slow moving drain or a gurgling sound coming from a drain. Always follow the directions and read the labels of any chemical drain cleaning product and wear rubber gloves and eye protection.