There could be a number of reasons your basement is flooding. The simplest reason is the basement drain clogged.
However, this essential contraption can go unobserved for months or even years. Basement drains may seem unimportant, but they are vital to the integrity of your house. It is best to fix the problem while it is still small enough to care for alone.
Instead of panicking, take this opportunity to educate yourself. Read on to learn how to fix a clogged basement drain.
Identify the Source of the Clog
Depending on the severity, you may be able to identify it yourself or require a professional’s assistance. If you can see where the drain line is clogged, it will likely involve simply removing the obstruction.
If the flooding is caused by a basement drain backing up, common culprits often include debris, hair, or other items. If the clog is further down the pipe or is an accumulation of sediment and other debris, you may need professional help.
Safety Precautions
Basement drain clogs can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation. Before attempting to unclog your basement drain, it is essential to put on protective clothing, such as goggles, gloves, and a face mask. These key safety items will keep you safe and protected from bacteria and other potentially harmful agents.
Next, turn off all electricity sources in the drainage area. Having no open flame source in the vicinity is important as this could result in a fire hazard.
Try Basic Remedies
You can try a few basic remedies to clear the clog and possibly avoid the expense of hiring a professional. First, you can try using a plunger to unstuck anything that is blocking the pipe.
If that doesn’t work, you can attempt to use a snake to unclog a basement drain with standing water. If you’re still having issues, try pouring a mixture of hot water and baking soda down the drain.
Use Chemical Drain Cleaners
Using chemical drain cleaners can be an effective way to clear a clogged basement drain. Additionally, chemical drain cleaners can improve a clogged basement drain’s flow.
A chemical drain cleaner can be used to break down the blockage further. Before using any chemical drain product, it is important to read and adhere to safety instructions and wear the appropriate safety gear. After use, it may be necessary to follow with a flush of plain hot water to wash away any remaining debris or residue that can harden over time if not flushed away.
Call a Professional Plumber
If these don’t do the trick, it’s time to call a professional plumber in Boise. Professional plumbers are experts in unclogging even the deepest and most stubborn clogs.
They have both the knowledge and the tools necessary to get your drain running like new in no time.
Basement Drain Clogged? No Problem!
If you find yourself in a situation where your basement drain clogged, don’t panic and take advantage of the action plan outlined in this article. Utilizing a snake or a plunger is a great tool for unclogging the drain yourself. Keeping drainer cleaners handy will also help.
However, if the issue persists, employ the help of a professional plumber. Remember to save time and money by doing regular maintenance checks and fixing small drainage issues sooner rather than later.
