<![CDATA[Drain Blaster Bills]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Bloghttp://www.rssboard.org/rss-specificationSunBlogNuke RSS Generator Version 8.4.0.0Tue, 19 Mar 2024 03:08:18 GMTTue, 19 Mar 2024 03:08:18 GMTen-ushostmaster@tritoncommerce.com (Drain Blaster BIlls)0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Installation/DNN_SunBlogNuke.pngDrain Blaster Billshttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog <![CDATA[6 Ways You Can Conserve Water in Your Home]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/37/6-ways-you-can-conserve-water-in-your-homeAs utility bills continue to climb in Minnesota, you may be looking for practical ways to reduce your expenses as much as possible. One way to trim some of off of your water bill is to conserve water. There are several ways you can either reduce water consumption or make your plumbing system more efficient.

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As utility bills continue to climb in Minnesota, you may be looking for practical ways to reduce your expenses as much as possible. Conserving water is one way to trim some off your water bill. Moving to more conscientious water use habits can save you in use and put more money in your pocket each month.

There are several ways you can either reduce water consumption or make your plumbing system more efficient.  Let's explore them below:

1. Fix Your Drain Problems

When your plumbing system doesn't drain properly, the blockage and slow-draining water can cause problems throughout your entire plumbing system.

Your pipes can corrode, your water may start to leak, and you may experience overflows. Any of these scenarios can lead to an inefficient system, costing you more money.

Before you start addressing other problems, you should start by getting your drains professionally inspected, cleaned, and, if necessary, repaired.

2. Repair Leaks

If your drains leak water from the pipes, they may let water or debris enter them. Therefore, you should maintain the plumbing and fix the leaks that are down deep in the drains.

You may also want to get your leaky faucets tightened, repaired, or replaced. A leaking faucet can lead to a backed-up drain. It will also lead to a much higher water bill as wasted water continues to pour down the drain.

3. Replace Your Toilet

Newer toilets are far more efficient than older toilets. In fact, high-efficiency toilets use 50% less water than their older counterparts.

Newer toilets are also less likely to back up and require less maintenance over a longer period. A brand-new, high-efficiency toilet can save up to $50 annually!

4. Find Ways to Cut Back on Water Use

If you start analyzing your water use daily, you'll quickly discover several ways you are wasting it. Here are some ways to cut back on water usage:

●        Turn the faucets off while you lather your hands or brush your teeth.

●        Reduce your showers to one a day and shorten your shower sessions.

●        Use your garbage disposal correctly and sparingly.

●        Only flush what is necessary down the toilet.

●        Monitor your water bill each month.

●        Install low-flow showerheads and faucets.

5. Streamline Your Dishwasher Process

Your dishwasher is not only more hygienic than hand washing; it saves you time and water usage. A few steps you can implement to help with water conservation include:

●        Cut down on the number of dishes you use—especially glasses.

●        Don't do partial loads, and make sure the appliance is full.

●        Use a damp sponge or cloth to clear leftover food, sauce, or grease from dishes instead of running them under the tap before placing them in the dishwasher.

●        Load it strategically by putting large items at the sides and back of the racks, which can minimize the need to rewash because they don't block the water spray.

6. Purchase High-Efficiency Appliances

Water conservation starts with conscientious decisions. Staying on top of leaks and changing water use behaviors are two of the biggest ways to avoid overconsumption.

Aside from implementing new habits, investing in energy-efficient appliances will reduce your use and lower your bills.

Appliances that are labeled WaterSense use far less water without compromising their performance, and Energy Star is a well-known name designed to reduce usage, so look for the label when buying toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators.

Drain Maintenance and Repair in Minneapolis

Water conservation starts with intention, and these are just a few easy ways to improve your consumption levels and reduce demand. Staying on top of maintenance and repair for your home or business plumbing is critical, and when you need an expert in the business,

We offer complete drain service for commercial and residential properties in and around Minneapolis, MN.

To schedule a plumbing inspection or drain cleaning, call us at 763-913-8719. You can also message us on our contact page.

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<![CDATA[6 Reasons Your Dishwasher Might Be Clogged]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/57/6-reasons-your-dishwasher-might-be-cloggedDishwashers make washing dishes easy, but there is nothing easy about them when food, paper, and scraps clog up a dishwasher and cause a backup. The occasional clog is normal considering the job a dishwasher does on a regular basis. However, a backup of dirty water is a problem no one wants.

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Dishwashers make washing dishes easy, but there is nothing easy about them when food, paper, and scraps clog up a dishwasher and cause a backup. The occasional clog is average, considering the job a dishwasher does on a regular basis. However, a backup of dirty water is a problem no one wants.

Side Effects of a Clogged Drain

Clogged drains are more than a nuisance. Ignoring a dishwasher clog has more consequences than you may think.

Dirty Water

Bubbling brown water is alarming at any time. When it is a clog, your drains work harder to do their jobs. No one wants their dishes washed with dirty water that harbors debris and bacteria.

Sour Smells

Clogs cause portions of pipes and drains to dry out that should never dry out. The result is nose-cringing odors. Worse than that, the opposite can happen, and water can get stuck in the pipes. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and horrible smells.

Leaky Pipes

Any clog backs water up and puts pressure on the pipes. The diverted water has nowhere to go, and the floors and walls take on damage and cause flooding.

If you notice growing water stains, leaky pipes are a possible suspect, though a dishwasher clog is not a red flag many people notice. But, if ignored, mildew, mold, and even bugs are possible outcomes from its worsening over time.

Health Risks

Other health risks exist besides dirty water when a dishwasher experiences a clog. People with asthma and sensitive allergies suffer from the odor and invisible irritants. Clogs also cause skin irritation because of the menaces plaguing the stagnant water.

So what causes dishwasher clogs? There might be more culprits than you think.

1. Garbage Disposal Knockout Plug

A homeowner or professional replacing a garbage disposal sometimes forgets to pull the knockout plug. If a dishwasher acts clogged, check the plug and remove it if required.

If this is the source of the problem, the issue should be resolved.

2. Deep Drain Clog

The sewer line sometimes clogs further down than someone can reach. The clog might be due to a sagging sewer line, damaged pipe, flushed debris, or pouring grease down a drain.

A Sagging Sewer Line Is Not Your Fault

It happens over time. A professional is the best person to call if you think or know it is causing the sewer drain clog.

Sewer Pipes Break or Rupture

Shifting soil, corrosion, leaking joints, and increased traffic are all potential causes. A professional will need to repair or replace the pipes.

Flushing Debris Down the Toilet or Other Drains Will Clog a Sewer Drain

The shortlist of things you should never flush includes wet wipes, dental floss, eggshells, coffee grounds, napkins, diapers, or any non-organic material.

Methods exist to help you unclog a drain, like a drain cleaner or plungers, but sometimes, it is so deep that a professional with the proper equipment will require a call.

Pouring Grease, Fat, or Oil Down a Drain is a No-No

Use a container like an empty coffee can to pour hot grease into so you can dispose of it properly. Hot water does not help wash grease down a drain.

3. Clogged Filter Basket

Dishwashers have a filter basket fitted to the drain that catches scraps of food and debris to protect items from entering the drain. You may find removing the basket challenging, but you can free it from the drain.

Grab the filter basket and pull gently. Do not forget to clean the filter basket regularly to prevent a clog. If you forget, soaking it in vinegar will dissolve deposits.

4. Clogged Drain Hose

If cleaning out the filter basket does not help, making your way toward the dishwasher drain with the hose is the next step. The dishwasher drains through the hose that connects to the garbage disposal or kitchen sink.

It is typical for the drain hose to have an interior build-up of sludge. If you are handy around the home, cleaning drains under the sink or dishwashing hoses is possible. However, calling a professional for maintenance and repair is often the best practice.

5. Broken Sewer Line

A dishwasher backing up could be a serious issue. Every drain in a residence will clog and cause a mess. The only option is to call a professional for an assessment as soon as possible.

The fact is that all pipes age and degrade. Materials take on damage: The older a home, the older the pipes.

6. Improper Loading

Your dishwasher has a specific way that it needs to be loaded to give you consistent cleanliness and make sure that no clogs develop. Not arranging dishes at an angle and avoiding stacking them on top of one another will ensure that the spray arms are not blocked and the particulates can be broken down and not build up a clog.

Signs You Are Dealing with a Dishwasher Clog

If you think there might be a clog but are still unsure, here are a few expert ways to know you have a problem.

The Machine Makes Weird Sounds

While you should hear the water slashing and moving inside the dishwasher, you should not hear thumping and gurgling sounds, and the unit should not be shaking. If any of these occur, you most likely have a clog in your main or secondary line.

Your Sink Is Full of Dishwater

Your drainage system is connected to your dishwasher and the kitchen sink, so when the dishwasher is running, if you notice the water is beginning to back up into the sink, there's a good possibility your dishwasher has a clog.

Your Dishwasher Has a Slow Drain

Another major indicator that the clog is present is if water pools at the bottom of your dishwasher and takes forever to drain. This could be from a clog in the machine or your kitchen sewer line and can lead to much larger issues, so get it cleared as quickly as possible.

Did You Find the Dishwasher Clog?

If there is still a clog and dirty water backup, it is time to call Drain Blaster Bill. Our 24/7 service is same-day, so the water damage is kept to the bare minimum. 100% satisfaction is our guarantee, and we always offer free estimates so you understand every aspect of the process.

Find out what makes us a 5-star company today by giving our office a call at 763-913-8719 or send us a message online and we will get back to you shortly!

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<![CDATA[What Is That Smell Coming Out of My Drains?]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/36/what-is-that-smell-coming-out-of-my-drainsIs there a foul stench emanating from your kitchen sink? Perhaps your bathtub smells strikingly like a sewer? If you’re detecting awful odors in areas of your home that have water faucets, there’s a strong likelihood that the stink you smell is coming from your drains. Let’s explore some of the reasons for the stink in your drainage system and all the stink-blasting tactics you need to know below.

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Is there a foul stench emanating from your kitchen sink? Perhaps your bathtub smells strikingly like a sewer? If you’re detecting awful odors in areas of your home that have water faucets, there’s a strong likelihood that the stink you smell is coming from your drains.

Let’s explore some of the reasons for the stink in your drainage system and all the stink-blasting tactics you need to know below.

Drain Smells 101: What’s Causing the Stink?

You use your sinks, shower, and bathtub every day, so just imagine all the things that run through the drains or get lodged in them. Even the most careful homeowner, who works tirelessly to trap hair from slipping down shower drains or always scrapes food scraps into the garbage instead of the garbage disposal, can experience smelly drains every once in a while. 

Here are some common culprits and reasons why your drains are spewing pungent perfumes. 

You Keep Pouring Grease Into the Drain

Grease does not drain well down a plumbing system. It takes a large amount of hot water running consistently to finally get the slimy substance to the bottom septic tank. If the grease dries due to improper drainage, it can harden and then build upon itself. 

Eventually, it will block the drain and even produce a rancid odor that finally makes its way back up through the drain. If the blockage keeps the water from draining, call a Drain Blaster Bill technician to perform a drain cleaning service

Your Garbage Disposal Needs a Good Cleaning

First, you want to be careful what you put into your garbage disposal. Make sure you read the user’s manual to find out what your garbage disposal can handle and what it cannot. Even if you treat your garbage disposal with care, dirty food and liquid can build up inside the canister. 

Your Plumbing Vent Is Clogged

The plumbing vent is an integral part of your plumbing system. It keeps water pressure from building up, thus preventing water from backing up. It also allows air and the accompanying odors to vent out of the pipes. If the vent is blocked, the water, air, and smell will be forced to exit out of a drain due to the pressure.

Bird nests, small animals, and debris are the three main items that will block a vent. You may want to have your vent professionally inspected or hire a drain cleaning service.

You Have a Dry or Missing P-Trap 

One of the most common causes of putrid drains is a dry p-trap, one of the easiest issues to remedy. Don’t know what a p-trap is? It’s the u-shaped or curved section of the pipe beneath the drain that’s designed to hold a small amount of water. This water creates a barrier, preventing sewer gases from wafting through the pipe and out of the drain. 

When you use a drain frequently, water regularly enters the p-trap, which maintains the odor-blocking barrier in the pipe. But, if you have a guest bathroom or other drains throughout your house that see infrequent use, the water within the p-traps will gradually evaporate. 

When it does, there’s nothing to stop stinky sewer gases from traveling up through your pipes and wafting into your home. To fix a dry p-trap, all you need to do is run water down the drain to re-establish the barrier in the pipe. 

Sometimes, though, you might find a drain that does not have a p-trap. This situation is unusual, but if your plumbing contractor did sub-par work, he might not have installed a p-trap under the drain. If you’re dealing with a missing p-trap, chances are this isn’t the first time you’ve noticed an odor emanating from the drain. Unfortunately, the stench will persist until you hire a plumber to install the trap.

Your Drain Is Filled With Blockages

Soap scum, oily residue, and small, solid particles can easily stick together inside your drains and form a blockage. Since the clog is constantly exposed to moisture, it can begin growing bacteria, mildew, and mold, which will naturally cause it to smell terrible.

Your Sewer Line Is Clogged

All the drains in your home feed into the main sewer line, so if that line develops a serious blockage, the clog can prevent multiple household drains from clearing properly. As you continue using your plumbing system, sewage and other materials will begin building up within the line. 

Eventually, those liquids and solids will back up to the point that they’re either very near the drain opening or flowing out of it backward. Naturally, that chunky liquid will smell horrendous.

Shower Drain Odors

There’s nothing quite like a hot, steamy, stinky shower, right? Wrong. If taking a shower leaves you on the verge of gagging after steamy sewage odors assault your nostrils, you’re likely dealing with one of two problems: biofilm accumulation or a backed-up sewer drain.

Biofilm is simply bacterial growth that accumulates inside the drain over time. When hair, soap scum, and other substances get stuck in the drain, bacteria feed on those materials. Certain bacteria can also thrive in the fetid water inside your shower drain’s p-trap. There, they produce hydrogen sulfide gas (which smells like rotten eggs) as they metabolize various sulfur compounds for energy.

To remedy the problem, you can try removing and cleaning the drain strainer to see if that eliminates the odor, but the issue often extends farther into the pipe. A professional drain cleaning service is your most effective option to tackle persistent shower drain odors. 

Bathroom Sink Drain Odors

Much like shower drain odors, smelly bathroom sink drains are often the result of biofilm accumulation. Though, sometimes, a rotten egg-type stench may be due to issues with your water supply.

To determine if your water is the culprit, fill one glass with cool tap water and one with hot tap water. Take both glasses of water outside your home and smell them. If you smell sulfur, your water supply is probably the culprit behind your stinky drains. If you only smell sulfur in the hot water sample, the issue may be your water heater. If you detect no unusual scent from your tap water, your drain is definitely the problem.

You can try eliminating the odor by removing the drain stopper and clearing any hair and buildup from its trap. But, much like your shower drain, biofilm accumulation typically extends farther into the pipe. In most cases, to eliminate the odor, you’ll need the expertise of a professional drain cleaner. 

How to Get Rid of Drain Smells

So, how do you get rid of that funky drain aroma? Our drain cleaning specialists share all the stink-blasting tactics you need to know below.

Pour Boiling Water Down the Smelly Drain

The simplest way to eliminate a nasty drain smell is with boiling water. Hot water can easily wash away any residue along the interior of the drain that may be growing odor-causing bacteria.

Here’s how to get the job done:

  • Bring a pot of water to a boil.

  • Immediately pour half of the piping hot water into the drain opening.

  • Wait a minute or two to allow the hot water to loosen any residue inside the pipe.

  • Flush the drain with warm water from the tap.

  • Pour the remainder of the hot water down the drain.

  • Flush the drain with tap water once again.

If you regularly boil water for tea, pasta, coffee, or anything else, pouring any leftover boiling water down the drain is also a good idea when you’ve used what you need. Periodically pouring hot water into the drain can help prevent residue from building over time.

Use Baking Soda and White Vinegar

This tactic can work for any stinky drain in your home. Since baking soda and vinegar naturally bubble when they react, the combo can help scrub away any odor-causing residue inside a stinky pipe. 

Here’s what you need to do:

  • Get two cups of baking soda and two cups of white vinegar.

  • Pour the baking soda into the drain. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.

  • Pour the vinegar into the drain.

  • Let the mixture bubble for 10-15 minutes inside the pipe.

  • While the mixture is bubbling, boil a pot of water.

  • Pour the boiling water down the drain to flush the baking soda, vinegar, and the loosened residue from the pipe.

Try Baking Soda and Lemon Juice

Like white vinegar, lemon juice is acidic, so when you pour baking soda and lemon juice into a stinky drain, the combo will react quite like baking soda and white vinegar do. Since lemon juice also contains natural essential oils, it can also help freshen the drain. To eliminate the odor, follow the same procedure as you’d use for baking soda and white vinegar.

Turn to the Experts

If the stench persists after you’ve tried all the above tactics, call a drain cleaning specialist to schedule service. Water jetting is highly effective at removing drain smells since it removes all traces of residue from within the pipe. A camera drain inspection can also alert you to the culprit behind the stench so you can take measures to prevent drain odors from recurring.  

If your drains tend to develop odors fairly frequently and you’ve never had them professionally cleaned, it’s likely in your best interest to start getting them serviced regularly. 

How often? Annually or bi-annually is usually adequate, depending on the number of people in your household and the frequency you use your plumbing system. To get a personalized recommendation for your home, you’ll need to speak with a drain cleaning specialist who can assess the health of your plumbing system. 

Drain Blaster Bill’s: Your Source for Professional Drain Cleaning 

Do your household drains smell awful? Let our team at Drain Blaster Bill’s help you eliminate that terrible stench! We provide drain cleaning services for homeowners throughout Stillwater, MN, and the surrounding Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area and offer same-day service for your convenience. 

To learn more about how professional drain cleaning can help you or to schedule service, feel free to give us a call today at 763-913-8719 or request a free estimate.

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<![CDATA[What Is an Agricultural Drain & How Can It Damage Your Home?]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/116/what-is-an-agricultural-drain-how-can-it-damage-your-homeAgricultural drains are designed to improve subsurface soil drainage, increase soil aeration, lower high water tables, and enable faster soil drying, especially in spring. Although these artificial subsurface drainage systems do many good things for residential and commercial properties, they can also cause damage.

When an agricultural drain is not installed correctly, it can harm the structure it was intended to protect. If your home or building has an agricultural drain, you’ll want to keep a close eye on it to identify signs indicating a problem that could damage your foundation. 

Read on to learn what agricultural drains are, how they work, how they can damage homes and buildings, and what you can do if you think you have a problem

What Is an Agricultural Drain?

An agricultural drain consists of a trench containing a perforated pipe that is backfilled with sand or rocks. This type of drain may also be called an ag pipe, ag line, agi pipe, French drain, slotted drainage pipe, or soakage drain. 

Ag drains are designed to provide efficient, artificial subsurface drainage for commercial properties, particularly farms with inadequate natural drainage. These drainage systems feature pipes buried three to six feet below the ground's surface.

Subsurface water naturally flows through the perforations in the pipe, and the sand or rocks around the pipe filter out any organic debris within the water. The pipe then carries away the water, which drains into a ditch, stream, river, or a larger municipal drainage system.

Some agricultural drainage systems also feature surface-level intakes and buried tubing. These inlets are designed to draw in and remove excess surface water from depressed areas of the property. 

Why Would You Have an Agricultural Drain?

Some properties naturally have poor drainage, which leaves the subsurface soil overly saturated when it rains or when an irrigation system turns on. Agricultural drains help the soil drain faster so that excess subsurface water does not damage plant root systems. 

More importantly, agricultural drains help prevent foundation damage to homes and buildings in poor soil drainage areas. In some cases, these drains are also used as a remedy for slab heave and to help reduce cracking in houses. 

Artificial subsurface drainage systems offer property owners several benefits, including:

  • Keeping the water table below plants’ root zones to help protect crops’ root systems.

  • Increasing soil aeration to help keep crops’ root systems healthy.

  • Encouraging more rapid soil drying and warming in spring to help farm owners get their crops planted earlier and improve other field operations.

  • Reducing soil compaction caused by excess subsurface moisture.

  • Improving the soil environment to encourage early crop emergence and better overall growth.

  • Reducing the risk of crop stress caused by excessive or ill-timed rainfall.

  • Improving soil nutrient content overall.

How Can an Agricultural Drain Damage Your Home?

When an ag drain isn’t installed correctly, it can cause subsurface soil to retain more water, not less. These drains are sometimes installed with geofabric around the perforated pipe. Unfortunately, the geofabric often becomes clogged with soil over time, which prevents water from entering the perforations in the pipe. 

When water can no longer enter the pipe designed to whisk it away, it is forced to accumulate within the trench. If there are heavy rains, the water can build to the point that it floods the trench, and at that point, it will seep back into the ground around the home or building it was installed to protect. When that happens, excess subsurface moisture can damage the foundation over time. 

Clogged agricultural drains can also result from a buildup of mineral deposits or vegetation accumulating in the drain. When an ag drain is installed correctly — meaning it features the proper materials and is strategically placed — it is much less likely to develop blockages that necessitate emergency drain cleaning.

It’s important to note that even when an agricultural drain is installed correctly, it should be cleaned regularly as a proactive measure. Although adequately installed drains are less likely to develop damaging clogs, routine cleaning will further lower the risk of blockages.  

Can You Fix a Clogged Agricultural Drain?

Yes, clearing a clogged agricultural drain is possible, but doing so requires commercial-grade drain cleaning equipment and considerable expertise. Generally, a procedure known as commercial water jetting is the most effective way to clean a clogged agricultural drain

This procedure involves placing a hose into the drain connected to a large water reserve tank. The hose emits a high-pressure stream of water, eliminating sediment, plant material, and anything else clogging up the pipe.  

How Often Should Agricultural Drains Be Cleaned to Prevent Home Damage?

There’s no definitive timeline for cleaning agricultural drains because each drain will develop clogs at a different rate based on location and other factors, but there is a “best” time to clean these drains. 

Early spring, autumn, and winter are all excellent times to have your agricultural drain professionally cleaned. Because snowmelt hasn’t yet occurred during these times of the year, the risk of drain flooding is relatively low, so cleaning is a preparatory measure for run-off season, which typically begins in mid to late spring. 

At Drain Blaster Bill, we can perform a drain camera inspection to quickly locate any issues within your ag drain(s) and assess their severity. We use high-powered water-jetting equipment to thoroughly clear sediment and other debris from within the drains so efficient subsurface water removal can resume as quickly as possible.

Need Ag Drain Cleaning Near the Twin Cities?

If your agricultural drain is causing problems because it appears to be clogged, get in touch with our team at Drain Blaster Bill’s Sewer & Drain Cleaning right away. We specialize in several types of commercial drain cleaning, including ag drain cleaning, drain tile cleaning, culvert pipe cleaning, septic cleaning, and sewer cleaning. 

We’re a veteran-owned and operated company and have proudly served Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding areas for over a decade. 

To get a drain cleaning estimate or learn more about how we can help you, feel free to give us a call today at 763-913-8719. You can also request a free estimate online, and we’ll be in touch with additional information. 

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Drain CleaningPlumbingPlumbing MaintenanceAgriculture Drain CleaningDrain Blaster Bill'shttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/116/what-is-an-agricultural-drain-how-can-it-damage-your-homeFri, 01 Dec 2023 18:00:00 GMT0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Handlers/Trackback.ashx?id=116
<![CDATA[7 Signs Your Building Needs Commercial Sewer Cleaning]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/114/7-signs-your-building-needs-commercial-sewer-cleaningSewer cleaning is not the most glamorous side of running a business; nonetheless, it's something that every commercial operation must take care of. Many commercial buildings have sewer lines that handle a very high volume of waste on a daily basis. Unfortunately, they often handle waste items that should never find their way into the plumbing system in the first place.

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Sewer cleaning is not the most glamorous side of running a business; nonetheless, it's something that every commercial operation must take care of. Many commercial buildings have sewer lines that handle a very high volume of waste on a daily basis. Unfortunately, they often handle waste items that should never find their way into the plumbing system in the first place. 

Those waste items — which typically include hygiene products, food waste, trash, and others — can easily accumulate inside the sewer line, prompting slow drainage or complete blockages.

If that happens, one or more of the following plumbing issues will likely follow, which are strong indications that your building is due for commercial sewer cleaning.

1. Foul Odors Emanating From Drains

Every drain in a commercial building drains into the main sewer line. So, it's not uncommon for infrequently used drains to emit odd or foul odors when their P-traps dry up. The p-trap is the u-shaped bend in the pipe just below the drain, which is designed to contain a small amount of water to prevent sewer gases from wafting up through the drain and into the building.

If you come across an odd-smelling drain that sees little use, try pouring a bucket of water into the drain to see if that solves the problem. If a dried-up p-trap is the culprit, the water you pour in will refill the p-trap and prevent sewer gases from escaping the drain.

If, however, you notice that drains that see daily use are starting to emit foul odors, it's time to call a commercial drain cleaning specialist. A major clog could be causing slow drainage and forcing wastewater to back up into the lowermost sections of the drains. Since that wastewater is loaded with bacteria (and probably some sewage), it'll emit a positively awful smell.

2. Inconsistent Water Levels in Toilets

Toilets should contain the same amount of water all the time. So, if you notice there's plenty of water in your building's toilets one day and hardly any the next, you've probably got a sewer line problem on your hands. Luckily, commercial sewer cleaning can likely solve it.

Water level inconsistencies are often caused by debris buildup in the line, which a sewer cleaning specialist can easily remove with commercial water jetting. If you notice inconsistencies regularly, a drain camera inspection can also alert you to potential issues with the drainage pipe that might be contributing to the problem.

3. Pooling Wastewater Outdoors

If your building has a bit of open property around it and you ever notice pools of water building up in the grass, there may be a leak in your main sewer line. But it's virtually impossible to determine what's causing wastewater to pool without inspecting the line's interior.

Since the sewer line is buried underground, a drain camera inspection is the best way to see what's causing the issue without excavating the land around the line.

To fix the issue, you'll first need to schedule an inspection with a drain cleaning specialist. If the inspection reveals the line is in good shape (no cracks or other forms of damage), thorough water jetting should clear the line and allow wastewater to flow freely once again.

4. Slow Drains

If you notice several of the drains in your building seem to be draining slower than usual, you likely have a main sewer line clog. Because all of the drains within a commercial building empty into the main sewer line, when the main line is partially blocked and drains slowly, all of the drains attached to it will drain slowly, too.

Commercial water jetting can easily solve this issue, provided it does not result from cracks in the line or pipe misalignments. You'll need a sewer camera inspection to determine what's causing the drainage problem, and if it's the result of a clog or tree root intrusion rather than a damaged pipe, drain cleaning can fix it.  

5. Backed-Up Wastewater Inside Interior Drains

Just as a clog in the main line can cause multiple slow drains, it can also cause wastewater to back up into those drains when the problem grows severe. If you ever notice water backing up into the sinks in your building or if you see it flowing out of floor drains, that's a definite sign you need to schedule a sewer cleaning appointment ASAP. If you don't, the problem will only worsen and may create excessive pressure within the line, which can cause serious plumbing damage.

Might your building need a different type of drain cleaning to resolve a backed-up drain? Check out Types of Commercial Drain Cleaning and the Businesses That Need Them to find out.

6. Selling or Transferring the Business

While you might be getting your finances in order and establishing your business value, having the sewer lines inspected and cleaned should also be included in your business selling process. You want the process to go smoothly, and if there are any unseen issues inside the sewer lines, this can come back to haunt you later if it's undisclosed on the sale.

Having an inspection will not only give you peace of mind but also help raise the value of the business because it's one less thing that needs to be addressed by the new owners.

7. Gurgling Sounds Coming From the Drain

There should be very little noise when your drains are clearing, so if you hear water rushing, bubbling, or any other unusual noise, this can indicate a sewer blockage somewhere in the system as the water tries to bypass any obstacles.

If appliances are running, water will move through them, but if you're hearing something unusual, you may need a sewer cleaning.

Need Commercial Sewer Cleaning in the Twin Cities?

Is your commercial building due for a sewer cleaning appointment? Contact Drain Blaster Bill's Sewer & Drain Cleaning to schedule a service!

We offer same-day and emergency sewer cleaning services and serve the entire Minneapolis and St. Paul metro area. Feel free to give us a call today at 763-913-8719 or request a free service estimate online, and we'll reach out with more information.

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Main Sewer LinePlumbing MaintenanceCommercial Drain CleaningDrain Blaster Bill'shttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/114/7-signs-your-building-needs-commercial-sewer-cleaningThu, 02 Nov 2023 16:00:00 GMT0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Handlers/Trackback.ashx?id=114
<![CDATA[How to Unclog a Toilet Fast]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/121/how-to-unclog-a-toilet-fastAh, the undeniable, choked-up gurgle of a toilet struggling to flush. Few sounds can trigger instant dismay and disgust quite like that distinctive, constricted bubbling. Luckily, diagnosing the issue and unclogging a toilet isn't usually a major ordeal. There are lots of ways to get the job done, and usually, it requires a couple of minutes at most.

Whether you're facing a backup at home or never want to deal with the embarrassment of owning up to a disastrous clog in the office toilet, this blog is for you.

Read on to learn how to unclog a toilet fast, with and without traditional clog-clearing tools. 

Plunge It Like You Mean It

If there's a plunger nearby, chances are it'll dislodge the clog in the toilet drain and get things moving again. But if you're facing a serious clog, you'll need to go after it with some force. And you may need to plunge several times before the sludge in the pipe gives way.

If you're new to plunging, here's how to unclog a toilet fast with a standard plunger:

1.      Make sure there's enough liquid in the toilet bowl to completely cover the bottom of the plunger. If there isn't, fill a bucket or bowl with water and add it to the toilet. You don't want any air pockets.

2.      Insert the plunger into the toilet bowl, placing it over the drain opening. Ensure the bottom opening of the plunger completely covers the drain hole.

3.      Now it's time to plunge. Make your first plunge a bit gentle, as the plunger's bell will still be full of air at this point, which you want to gently expel. If you initially thrust downward with a bit too much force, you'll regret it.

4.      Once the air has left the bell, it's time for vigorous plunging. Maintaining the seal between the bell and the drain opening, plunge the tool downward and upward forcefully. This will repeatedly force water backward and forward through the pipe, which will dislodge the clog.

5.      If the clog doesn't loosen right away, keep at it. You may need 15–20 plunges to get things moving again. Try a quick half-flush to test the flow, and if it doesn't work, repeat the above steps.

In most cases, vigorous plunging is all that's necessary to unclog a toilet fast. If you're dealing with a stubborn clog that just won't budge, you may need a thorough drain snaking to restore flow.

Use Dish Soap and Hot Water to Dislodge Debris

If you don't have access to a plunger, don't freak out. Dish soap and hot water might just do the trick. No, it's not a pipe dream. But it could very well be a dream for a clogged toilet pipe.

How on earth can dish soap dislodge a clog? The magic lies in soap's slippery nature. When you pour soap into a clogged toilet, it'll help lubricate any debris stuck in the pipe. The more lubrication there is, the easier the clog will move and the higher the likelihood that it'll flow down the drain with a simple flush.

Want to try this method out? Here's how to unclog a toilet fast with soap and hot water:

1.      Pour about a half-cup of dish soap into the toilet. Let it sit for around 10 minutes.

2.      While you're waiting, heat one gallon of water in a large pot on the stove. Use a pot with two handles, as you'll have an easier time dumping the water into the toilet bowl.

3.      Remove the pot from the stove just before the water begins to boil.

4.      Carefully dump the hot water into the toilet, taking care not to splash yourself.

5.      If the soap worked its lubricating magic, the clog should start moving. When a toilet bowl is too full of liquid, it naturally flushes, which should happen with this method if the clog is ready to move.

6.      Try flushing the toilet. If it drains slowly, repeat the process until the clog resolves.

Try Using a Toilet Brush

Can you find a toilet brush? If so, it may work to dislodge a clog. But you'll need a strong grip and a stronger stomach if you want to try this out. Most brushes have short handles, so you'll probably end up getting your hands dirty. Of course, wear gloves if you have access to them.

To unclog a toilet fast with a toilet brush, simply insert the brush into the drain hole and plunge it inward and outward as you would with a regular plunger. If you're lucky (and if the clog isn't that serious), you'll get enough water moving through the pipe to loosen things up.

If the brush end of the pipe won't fit in the drain hole, flip it around, hold onto the bristles, and insert the handle instead. 

Obviously, this method should only be a last-ditch attempt to unclog a toilet. It's not reliable by any means, but if you're in a pinch, consider giving it a try. Sometimes, desperate times call for desperate measures.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

While baking soda and vinegar are a go-to solution for multiple household scenarios, they also work for clogged toilets. Who knew something from your elementary school science class could be so versatile? From removing hard water stains to freshening your sink, they've been a time-tested option with proven results, and your toilet clog is included in the list!

Start by adding one cup of baking soda to the clogged toilet, then give it about two minutes, then add two cups of vinegar. Remember, as you add it, it will react with the baking soda and bubble, so be sure to pour it slowly to keep it from overflowing or splashing.

Allow the mixture to sit for several minutes, then flush to see if the clog has passed.

How to Handle Stubborn Toilet Clogs

If you're getting minimal movement after multiple attempts, call a drain cleaning specialist. Your clogged toilet drain could be the result of a deeper, more serious problem, such as a blocked sewer line or clogged septic system.

A pro can perform a drain camera inspection to identify the source of the problem and follow that up with water jetting or drain snaking, whichever is most appropriate.

Once your toilet is good to go, be gentle with it. Don't choke it with toilet paper, and be sure to check out the 7 Things to Never Put Down Your Drains so you don't inadvertently cause another serious clog. 

What Risks Come With a Clogged Toilet?

Proper sanitation means having a way to dispose of waste in a healthy and efficient way. Aside from being a massive headache, clogged toilets have several risks:

Overflow

Clogs will increase the risk of the toilet overflowing and will cause damage to your home if not cleaned up right away.

Health Risks

The toilet water can facilitate harmful bacteria growth, and if it's left to sit and the clog isn't resolved, this will continue accumulating and end up as a risk to your air quality or health.

Bad Odors

When water is blocked from flowing, it accumulates and becomes stagnant. Over time, the bacteria and particulates will emit a foul odor, which will be released into your home.

It Can Cause Expensive Leaks

On top of everything else, if you have an older toilet or corroded plumbing system, the clog can cause leaking in other areas of your home. As the pressure builds from the blockage, it creates a chain reaction that continues to build and can result in water damage in other interior spaces.

Get Fast Clogged Toilet Repair in the Twin Cities

If you're dealing with a severely clogged toilet that won't flush no matter what you try, get in touch with our team at Drain Blaster Bill's Sewer & Drain Cleaning. We specialize in comprehensive commercial and residential drain cleaning and offer same-day and 24/7 emergency clogged toilet repair service throughout the Minneapolis and St. Paul metros.

To learn more about our services, get a quote, or schedule an appointment, call our Stillwater, MN office today at 763-913-8719. You can also request a free drain cleaning estimate online, and we'll reach out with more information.

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Drain CleaningPlumbingClogged DrainDrain Blaster Bill'shttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/121/how-to-unclog-a-toilet-fastMon, 02 Oct 2023 16:00:00 GMT0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Handlers/Trackback.ashx?id=121
<![CDATA[5 Common Causes of Blockages in Bathroom Drains & Simple Ways to Prevent Clogs]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/33/5-common-causes-of-blockages-in-bathroom-drains-simple-ways-to-prevent-clogsWhile a clogged drain can be problematic in the kitchen or the laundry room, a drain clog in the bathroom can be really nasty. Given the nature of the activities you and your family engage in throughout the day, every day, bathroom drain clogs are best avoided at all costs. 

A severe clog could easily cause bacteria-laden waste to end up all over your bathroom floor, and no one’s keen on cleaning up smelly refuse even if they produced it. Luckily, avoiding bathroom drain clogs is pretty straightforward if you’re willing to assess your bathroom habits and keep a few drain-clogging culprits out of your pipes.

Common Signs of a Clogged Bathroom Drain

Whether your bathroom plumbing has a minor clog or a major blockage, you’ll likely notice one or more of the following issues:

  • Water draining slowly from your sink, bathtub, or shower.

  • Incomplete toilet flushing.

  • Low water level in the toilet after flushing.

  • Unpleasant odors coming from sink, shower, or tub drains.

  • Gurgling drain noises when faucets are running.

  • Toilet gurgling when you run the sink, shower, or tub faucet.

  • Odorous, discolored water backing up into your shower or tub when you flush the toilet.

If you observe any of the red flags listed above, you’ll first want to stop using the water and toilet in the affected bathroom. Use a toilet plunger if your toilet is acting up. If you have a smaller sink or tub drain plunger, try using that to see if you can dislodge the clog.

If the problem persists despite forceful plunging, you’ll need to call a drain cleaning specialist who can perform a drain camera inspection to locate the clog. From there, a pro can either snake the drain or perform a water jetting procedure to eliminate the blockage and clean any remaining residue from the interior of the pipes.

Drain Clog Culprits 

What kind of culprits are we talking about? Here are some of the most common causes behind bathroom drain blockages. 

1. Strings & Things

If you’re like most people, you floss over the bathroom sink. If you dispose of the floss in the sink or the toilet, you could cause the drain to back up. Standard dental floss is not biodegradable and will collect inside the pipe (probably in the p-trap) over time. As it accumulates somewhere in the drain, it can snag other pieces of incoming debris, and together, they’ll form a slimy, nasty clog.

Keep floss out of your bathroom sink drain to avoid a floss-related drain clog. That’s true even if you happen to use eco-friendly, biodegradable floss. 

If you don’t already have a small trash can in your powder room, get one. And if you’re grossed out by the idea of taking that trash out, line the can with an old plastic shopping bag so you can dump it mess-free.  

2. Toys

Kids are naturally attracted to toilets. The swirling water, metal handle, and swishing noise are enticing to naturally curious toddlers. So it’s no surprise that toddler toys often end up in the toilet bowl. And it’s hardly surprising that a curious toddler might choose to see what would happen if they try to flush said toys. 

Most of these toys are small enough to make it partway down the toilet drain but large enough to get lodged in the pipe. Lodged toys don’t exactly break apart like toilet paper, so they can be quite challenging to remove. 

In most cases, you’ll have to contact a professional drain cleaning service to remove the object.

How do you avoid this type of clog? Get a toddler-proof toilet seat lock, install it on your existing toilet seat, and lock it down.

You can return to a lock-free commode when your kiddo is old enough to understand that the toilet isn’t a fun pool for rubber ducky to swim in.  

3. Cat Litter

Dumping cat litter in the toilet might sound convenient since it’ll keep your garbage can from smelling bad. But convenient isn’t the word that’ll come to mind when you end up with a severe, litter-related drain clog. 

If you have a septic system, a clog of this type could easily prevent your toilet from flushing and cause sewage-laden water to back up into your bathtub or shower. 

Cat litter is clumpy, heavy, and doesn’t dissolve. It can easily and quickly clog up a toilet, drain pipe, or septic system, especially if you put it down the toilet drain daily. Even if you toss litter in the toilet less often than that, you’ll still end up with a clog at some point — it’ll just take longer to develop. 

4. Wet Wipes

Something that all plumbers and drain cleaning technicians agree with is that the term “flushable” is misleading. While it is true that flushable wipes are better than non-flushable wipes, the comparison doesn’t justify their use. 

Flushable wipes are so destructive to a plumbing system that they can back up an entire city sewage system. How many people live in the Minneapolis area? That’s a lot of sewage problems!

5. Hair

Hair is nothing more than protein, which means it’s fully biodegradable. However, body hair (or pet hair) still isn’t great for your drains. 

Once hair enters your plumbing system, it can take months or even years to break down if it remains inside the pipes. And even if it makes it to a septic tank packed with proteolytic bacteria (bacteria that break down proteins), those bacteria can still take several months to hydrolyze it.  

When those blobs build inside your drains, they also inevitably catch incoming sludge and solids as they move through the drain. Ultimately, a super-slimy, nasty, stinky drain clog develops. 

Fortunately, preventing hair-based clogs is exceedingly simple. Just pick up a few shower drain hair stoppers at your local home supply store (or order them online) and set those strainers over your shower and/or tub drains. Empty them after each bathing session or whenever they look questionable, and you’ll be good to go.

If you shave over the bathroom sink, plug the drain before you start clipping, remove all hair, and toss it in the trash when you’re done. Whatever you do, do not wash hair clippings down the drain with water!

Think you might have a hair clog? Check out 4 Signs You Need Shower Drain Cleaning for more info. 

Avoiding Bathroom Drain Blockages

Grossed out by standing water when you take a shower? Is your sink blocking up when you brush your teeth or wash your hands? Good news: You can avoid this issue altogether by practicing some preventative drain maintenance, and here’s how.

Install a Drain Cover or Strainer

The average person loses several strands of hair during a shower, which usually flow directly into the drain. To avoid hair-based drain blockages, all you need to do is install a drain strainer (sometimes called a cover) to catch hair as it flows toward the drain opening. 

Flush the Drain

Since soap scum buildup is common in showers and bathtubs, it’s never a bad idea to flush those drains with boiling water on a routine basis. The hot water will soften any buildup and carry it through the remainder of the pipe. 

Avoid Using Oil-based Moisturizers in the Shower

Though in-shower moisturizers are popular, they’re not ideal for maintaining free-flowing drains. When you use an oil-based, in-shower moisturizer, you must rinse it off before exiting the shower. And unfortunately, those oils travel straight into the drain, where they accumulate along the pipe's inner walls over time. When enough sludge builds up, it can slow or halt water flow.

Stop Using Excess Toilet Paper

Using excess toilet paper is probably the most common cause of toilet drain clogs. Though that paper is designed to break down, it doesn’t begin dissolving instantly, and when there’s too much of it in the pipe, it can’t get past the p-trap or floor drain. If you need to use a bunch of toilet paper, use a little bit, flush the toilet, use a little bit more, and flush again. 

Keep the Lid Closed

In households with children, foreign objects (usually toys) are a common cause of drain blockages. To help prevent those items from falling into the toilet in the first place, always keep the lid closed when the toilet is not in use. 

Do Not Put Grease in Your Toilet

Grease, oil, and other fats never belong in your household drains! When you flush oily substances down the toilet, the cold water in the pipes immediately causes those substances to solidify. They then build up along the inner walls of the pipes, and when enough of that sludge accumulates, it can slow or prevent water flow through the system. 

Clean the P-trap

Plenty of things can get stuck in the p-trap of your bathroom sink, and when they get lodged in there, they’ll prevent water from flowing freely down the drain. To avoid these types of clogs, clean the p-trap regularly, and if you have a slow drain, check the p-trap first. 

All you need to do is detach the u-shaped section of the pipe beneath your bathroom sink, pull out any stuck gunk, and give it a thorough scrub with an old toothbrush or long-handled scrubber. 

Flush Drains Regularly

Often, soap scum accumulates inside bathroom drains, and when it begins to coat the pipes, it can slow water flow. To control that buildup, all you need to do is flush your drains with boiling water regularly. The hot water will soften the scum buildup and allow it to flow through the remainder of the pipe.

Dependable Drain Cleaning Service in Minneapolis, MN

If you need a drain cleaning service for your home or business, contact Drain Blaster Bill’s Sewer & Drain Cleaning. We use the most advanced technology available and offer a wide range of drain cleaning services for all plumbing system components, providing you with a professional and efficient experience you can trust! 

To schedule a drain cleaning service or learn more about how we can help you clear stubborn clogs, give us a call at 763-913-8719, or message us on our contact page

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Drain CleaningPlumbingClogged DrainDrain Blaster Bill'shttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/33/5-common-causes-of-blockages-in-bathroom-drains-simple-ways-to-prevent-clogsWed, 06 Sep 2023 16:00:00 GMT0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Handlers/Trackback.ashx?id=33
<![CDATA[6 Warning Signs of a Main Sewer Line Blockage]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/21/6-warning-signs-of-a-main-sewer-line-blockageYou may never see your main sewer line, but, like anything else in your home, the drain will require professional plumbing service from time to time. Drain Blaster Bill offers professional drain cleaning services that will fix any damaged or clogged drain line. We can identify problems in your entire drainage system and then provide the right solution to get your plumbing back on track. Below are some of the issues we look for when we inspect your pipes.

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You may never see your main sewer line, but, like anything else in your home, the drain will require professional plumbing service from time to time. Drain Blaster Bill offers professional drain cleaning services to fix damaged or clogged drain lines. 

We can identify problems in your entire drainage system and then provide the right solution to get your plumbing back on track. Below are some of the issues we look for when we inspect your pipes. 

1. Clogged Sewer Line or Backed Up Toilet

The biggest red flag that something is wrong with your main sewer line is water backing up from a drain or the toilet. You may also hear gurgling sounds coming from the pipes when you turn on the water or flush the toilet.

The gurgling noise you hear is a product of simple physics. Because negative pressure in a clogged drain forces air within the pipes to return to where it came from, you'll hear a bubbling noise as air travels back up through the drain. 

If it sounds like water is percolating while washing the clothes, you should call us and schedule a camera drain inspection—you'll know exactly what's causing the noise after a thorough inspection.

2. Tree Roots in the Plumbing

Tree roots are often the primary cause of a clogged sewer line. Older homes have older trees in the yard. Over time the roots may find their way to pipes. When pressure occurs between the tree root and the plumbing, the tree roots almost always win out. They will penetrate the pipe and create water leaks or severe blockage.

Again, gurgling noises are an indication that there is a hole somewhere in the sewer line. We can use a camera inspection method to find the problem without digging up your plumbing. If your pipes are damaged, we'll need to replace them and cut back the roots.

3. Sewage Smells

Clogged sewage has nowhere to go but back up the pipes. If it's lingering near the tip of the drain, it will fill up a room with a nasty odor. You shouldn't be alarmed if you smell it every once in a while.

However, if it reoccurs, call us to look into the problem, and we'll see where the blockage is located. You may also notice the smell in the yard. This means that roots have damaged the pipes, and the sewage is spilling out into the ground. 

4. Slow-Flowing Drains

If several drains around your house seem to be draining slower than usual, that's a surefire sign of a mainline sewer clog. Remember, each drain in your house eventually feeds into the main sewer line. So when there's a clog in the trunk line, it will affect multiple drains throughout your house.

5. Strange Water Stains in the Basement 

You may notice a persistent stain on the floor in older homes with unfinished basements and sometimes cast iron pipes. It isn't wet all the time, but perhaps it returns after somebody takes a shower or uses the washing machine. 

Instead of flowing down the main drain, water may be backing up in other pipes and seeping around old joints until it slowly works out to the main sewer connection.

6. Water Up to Your Ankles in the Shower

You have pulled the hair out of the shower drain, poured some chemicals down the pipe, and still, the shower slowly fills with water every morning. It drains eventually but never keeps up, so you get to splash around a bit. 

Grease, roots, and foreign objects can all combine to create a blockage in your main drain that doesn't completely stop the water but seriously slow it down.

Request a Sewer Line Camera Inspection

If you need your sewer line repaired, call Drain Blaster Bill today. We utilize the most advanced technology in the industry to deliver superior plumbing service to you. 

Our work includes drain cleaning, clogged toilets, bathroom drain cleaning, and main sewer line repair. We serve homes in the Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota area. To schedule a sewer line inspection or drain repair, contact us at (316) 847-4277 or message us on our contact page.

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Drain CleaningPlumbingClogged DrainDrain Blaster Bill'shttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/21/6-warning-signs-of-a-main-sewer-line-blockageWed, 16 Aug 2023 16:00:00 GMT0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Handlers/Trackback.ashx?id=21
<![CDATA[Top 8 Most Common Drain Cleaning Mistakes]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/96/top-8-most-common-drain-cleaning-mistakesDrain blockages can occur in any drain inside your home, and if you’re the DIY type, you might be tempted to try to clean your drains by yourself. While you can certainly try to dislodge a clog, success depends on knowing where the clog is located, using the right tools, and performing the right drain cleaning techniques.

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Drain blockages can occur in any drain inside your home, and if you're the DIY type, you might be tempted to try to clean them yourself. While you can certainly try to dislodge a clog, success depends on knowing where the clog is located, using the right tools, and performing the right drain cleaning techniques.

Unfortunately, for the untrained person, DIY drain cleaning typically involves plenty of mistakes and, ultimately, an unsatisfactory result. At Drain Blaster Bill's Sewer & Drain Cleaning, we hear about a handful of common drain cleaning mistakes when visiting Twin Cities homes.

Read on to find out what they are so you don't make them, too. 

1. Failing to Call a Professional Drain Cleaning Service

You shouldn't attempt the job yourself if you don't have the right tools to clear a drain. Period. Drain cleaning is best performed after a comprehensive camera drain inspection locates and identifies the clog.

Without that inspection, you won't know where the clog is, how severe it is, or what it comprises. You also won't know whether the interior of the pipe is in questionable condition, and if it is, performing DIY drain cleaning could cause further damage.

Calling a professional to handle drain blockages is the most effective and safest way to ensure your drains are clear, clean, and fully functional. And scheduling routine maintenance drain cleaning services will keep them that way.

2. Improper Plunger Selection

Using a plunger to clear a clogged drain seems painfully straightforward, right? You stick the rubber part over the drain, move the tool up and down, and the clog should dislodge, right? In theory? Yes. In practice? Not always.

Many people make the mistake of using the wrong plunger for the job. Take, for example, a toilet plunger. The tool is designed to dislodge minor toilet clogs, but many people attempt to use it on sinks and shower, floor, and laundry drains. That's a mistake.

There are different types of plungers out there for different types of drains. Toilet plungers might be the most well-known variant of the tool, but they're not effective for every drain.

3. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners to Clear Clogged Drains

Though drain cleaners are widely available, and it can be tempting to turn to these products in a pinch, you really shouldn't use these chemicals on your pipes. Not only do they contain extremely harsh chemicals that can damage your plumbing, but they also rarely live up to their lofty claims.

While the chemicals in these products are designed to break down drain clogs, they don't typically stop there. A corrosive chemical is a corrosive chemical — it doesn't distinguish between a drain blockage and other materials; it reacts with everything it touches.

To prevent pipe damage, it's best to avoid chemical drain cleaning products if at all possible. While a couple of uses won't destine your pipes to an untimely death, repeated use can certainly do a number on your plumbing system, especially if it's old.

4. Using a Standard Water Hose to Flush Slow Outdoor Drains

If you've ever watched a plumber flush a clogged drain with water, it's easy to assume your standard garden hose can accomplish the same job. But it can't.

While water is an excellent tool for drain cleaning, the stream of water that your garden hose produces isn't the same as the stream of water that professional drain cleaning tools emit. A drain cleaning specialist uses a technique called water jetting to clean clogged pipes.

This technique relies on an industrial-grade tool that produces an extremely pressurized jet of water. Depending on the composition of the clog, the water may also contain abrasive substances to break it apart. While the technique is highly effective, the water entering the pipe must be highly pressurized.

Your standard garden hose simply won't cut it.

5. Attempting to Clear Drain Blockages With DIY Tools

If you're dealing with a moderate drain blockage, clearing that blockage isn't always straightforward. For the DIYer, clearing a clogged drain with something like a straightened metal coat hanger (or any other long, flexible DIY tool, for that matter) can certainly seem like a good idea — it's worth a shot and if it doesn't work, no harm done, right?

Wrong.

Though it may seem common sense, drain cleaning involves a degree of precision and specific technique that an untrained person simply won't have. Using DIY tools that aren't specifically fashioned for drain cleaning rarely gets the job done because drain blockages are usually pretty far down the pipe.

Ultimately, poking around inside the drain with household objects can force a clog further down the pipe. Don't try to dislodge the clog yourself when you have a drain blockage that needs attention. Call a drain cleaning specialist who can evaluate the situation thoroughly and formulate an effective plan of attack.

6. Improper Snake Use

Augers and snakes are the typical go-to's for blocked drains, and one of the most common mistakes is not using the correct size. Picking an auger snake that's too large can damage your lines and lead to leaks and breaks in some situations. Using one that's too small can get stuck in the pipe and complicate your clogging issue even more.

Using the proper technique is also critical. As you move through the piping, turn it evenly and slowly. Avoid twisting the cable while still using enough force to move it through the block, then pull it back out once it’s intertwined with the build-up. Repeat as needed until the clog is clear. 

7. Not Cleaning the Stopper

If you're dealing with drainage issues, your first instinct might be to jump right into getting to the clog, and while this is an effective solution, inspecting your drain stopper in the process is imperative. Drain stoppers catch everything from debris to hair, and if you're experiencing slow draining, check this part first because it could be compacted with build-up.

8. Ignoring a Clog

While this may be a more obvious mistake, if you don't recognize the signs of clogging, you can end up with water damage and even health hazards if your septic is involved. If you're hearing gurgling noises or experiencing slow drains or backups, these are all common signs that must be addressed immediately.

To make matters worse, aside from the damage potential, if the water stagnates for too long, it can create bad odors and attract pests giving you a much larger problem than you started with.

Looking for Drain Cleaning Services in the Twin Cities?

If you repeatedly deal with clogged drains throughout your house or suddenly develop a severe drain blockage, don't wait to call our team at Drain Blaster Bill's Sewer & Drain Cleaning. We specialize in comprehensive drain cleaning services for households throughout the Twin Cities and offer same-day service and affordable rates.

To learn more or get started, call our Stillwater, MN office today at 763-913-8719. You can also request a free estimate here or contact us online for more information.

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Drain CleaningPlumbingClogged DrainDrain Blaster Bill'shttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/96/top-8-most-common-drain-cleaning-mistakesMon, 03 Jul 2023 16:00:00 GMT0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Handlers/Trackback.ashx?id=96
<![CDATA[8 Warning Signs Your House Is on the Verge of a Drain Disaster]]>https://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/107/8-warning-signs-your-house-is-on-the-verge-of-a-drain-disasterLike most household systems, your drainage and plumbing system will inevitably develop problems at some point. But some of the most common drainage issues aren't always apparent right away. Unfortunately, when drain problems aren't readily noticeable, they can easily grow severe before you even realize they're there.

Luckily, if you're aware of the not-so-obvious signs that your drains may be developing problems, you can nip a minor issue in the bud before it spirals out of control. What signs should you know about? Read on to find out.

1. Unpleasant Odors

When sewer-like odors start wafting into the house, there's one of two problems: either a drain trap has dried up, or the sewer vent line has cracked. One of these is super simple to fix, while the other is a bit more involved and requires the help of a plumbing professional.

To figure out what's causing the stench, here's what you need to do:

●        If you have any drains that see infrequent use, sniff them. If you notice a strong sewer-like odor wafting up through any of those drain openings, a dry p-trap is probably the culprit.

●        To find out if that's the problem, turn on the faucet and let the water run into the drain. If the p-trap is dry, the water will refill it, preventing sewer gases from escaping the pipe.

●        Sniff the drain again later, and if the sewer stench is gone, you've probably fixed the problem.

●        If you can still smell sewer odors after running water into your drains, a damaged vent line is probably to blame. Since these lines typically run through a home's walls, you'll need to hire a pro to find the source of the stench and fix it.

2. Slow Drainage

Slow water flow through any drain is almost always indicative of a clog somewhere in the pipe. Sometimes, the blockage exists right near the drain opening and can be dislodged with a plunger, but if plunging does nothing, that typically indicates a more severe blockage further down the line. A drain cleaning pro can easily solve this issue with a technique called drain snaking or, for really tough clogs, water jetting may be more appropriate.

3. Weak Water Flow

When there's weak water flow at a single faucet, that usually indicates a problem with the faucet's aerator. But when there's poor water pressure and weak flow at multiple taps throughout the house, that's a major red flag that a bigger problem needs your attention.

Poor water pressure in multiple locations may indicate an issue with the water main. If it's only happening with the warm water supply, a water heater problem is a likely culprit. In a worst-case scenario, systemic weak water flow can indicate an active leak in the main water supply line, which must be addressed promptly.

Anytime you notice weak flow at multiple points throughout your house, contact a drain cleaning specialist right away. A pro can diagnose the issue with a drain camera, and if it's caused by backed-up drains, water jetting can solve the problem in no time. If the drain camera reveals a supply line leak, you'll need to get an emergency plumber to repair the affected pipe.

4. Unusually High Water Bills

Many homeowners learn of a plumbing or drainage system leak when their water bills unexpectedly spike. If you notice a sudden increase in your water expenses and haven't been using more water than usual, the problem may be due to a simple running toilet. However, if the spike is substantial, a pipe leak is probably the culprit.

Either way, this is an issue you should definitely have checked out by a qualified professional. A drain cleaning specialist or a plumber can assess your pipes with a drain camera inspection to determine if any leaks are present and advise you on what you need to do to control your water bill.

5. Super Green Patches of Grass in the Yard

One of the most common indications of a mainline sewer problem is an ultra-fertilized area of grass in the yard. If there's human waste leaking out of the line, it'll provide the surrounding soil with an additional source of nutrients, which will result in very healthy-looking turf, but a not-so-healthy plumbing system. Leaky sewer drains can also cause soggy patches in a yard since the leaking fluid will gradually cause areas of the soil to compact and sink.

Homeowners often notice a super-green patch between their home and the street since city sewer lines typically follow that path. If you ever notice something like this, it may result from a tree root intrusion in the line, another type of blockage, or age-related corrosion.

Regardless of what might be causing the green patch, it's something you need to get checked out by a pro. A camera drain inspection can reveal the source of the problem, and a sewer cleaning specialist can recommend the most appropriate course of action based on the inspection's findings.

6. Dirty Water

When the water coming out of your faucets isn't clear, that may indicate a serious problem within your plumbing system. In some cases, cloudy or slightly yellowish water is simply the result of mineral buildup, which is fairly common in households that use well water. Often, a simple water treatment, filter replacement, or water softener additive can fix the color issue. 

When the water is brown, full of sediment, or tinged slightly red, on the other hand, those colors frequently indicate the presence of rust. If the change occurs suddenly, it may be due to fire hydrant flushing in the local area, but if it happens gradually, it may mean the pipes are corroding. Green-ish water may also indicate corrosion if your plumbing system has copper pipes.

Suppose you suspect your plumbing system may be suffering from any degree of corrosion (especially if you own an older home). In that case, scheduling a drain camera inspection with a drain cleaning specialist is in your best interest. The assessment will reveal what's going on with the interior of your pipes. If there isn't corrosion, your dirty water may simply be the result of sediment buildup inside your drains, which water jetting can easily eliminate. 

7. Your Fixtures Aren't Functioning Like Normal

If your drains and fixtures are making strange noises or behaving abnormally, this is another key indicator that something needs to be addressed. Because the main sewer drains usually become clogged somewhere between the street and the home, and the backups start at the clog and move up, the lowest drains are usually the first to experience issues.

Start with your toilet, and if you notice the water isn't flushing correctly or gurgling occurs when water is running down the washing machine drain, sink, or tub, these are telltale signs. You can also run the sink next to the toilet, and if you hear noises or see a backup, reach out to a pro for an assessment.

8. Water Stains

Water stains are not only unsightly but a sign that there is a bigger problem. If they're showing up in your basement or on your foundation walls, this means you have a poor drainage problem.

To make matters worse, if the water sits for too long, it can directly affect the structural integrity of your foundation. If you believe the septic system is affected or sewage is involved, keep yourself protected before entering the space, and call in a professional immediately.

Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Twin Cities Home

Worried your house might be on the verge of plumbing backup? Then don't hesitate to get in touch with our team at Drain Blaster Bill's Sewer & Drain Cleaning to schedule service! We specialize in water jetting service, drain camera inspections, drain snaking, and maintenance drain cleaning and will ensure your pipes are free of debris that can cause serious plumbing problems.

To get started, call us today at 763-913-8719 or contact us online with any questions, and we'll get back to you right away.

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Drain CleaningPlumbingPlumbing MaintenanceDrain Blaster Bill'shttps://www.drainblasterbill.com/About/Blog/entryid/107/8-warning-signs-your-house-is-on-the-verge-of-a-drain-disasterMon, 26 Jun 2023 16:00:00 GMT0https://www.drainblasterbill.com/DesktopModules/SunBlog/Handlers/Trackback.ashx?id=107