Emergency Drain Cleaning: What to Do In Case of Sudden and Severe Drain Blockage

Drain blockages are inconvenient at best and catastrophic at worst. Whether it’s your kitchen sink refusing to drain or a bathroom flood that’s threatening to ruin your floors, knowing how to respond swiftly and effectively can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through a sudden and severe drain blockage and to know when to call for professional drain cleaning in Fort Worth, TX.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Take a moment to assess the severity of the blockage. Is the water draining slowly or not at all? Is there an unpleasant odor or any visible signs of debris? Identifying visible issues are helpful so you know what to tell the drain cleaning company.

Step 2: Stop Using the Affected Area

Stop using the clogged drain, sink, or toilet immediately to prevent any further damage or overflow. Continuing to use the blocked drain can exacerbate the problem and lead to more extensive damage.

Step 3: Remove Any Visible Debris

For minor blockages, removing visible debris can help a bit. Use gloves and a garbage bag to safely dispose of any hair, food particles, or other items that may be causing the blockage. Be cautious and avoid pushing the debris further down the drain.

Step 4: Check the P-Trap

If the blockage is localized to a sink, the P-trap (the U-shaped pipe beneath the sink) could be the culprit. Place a bucket underneath the P-trap to catch any water or debris.

Step 5: Call a Professional

Severe blockages may require specialized equipment and expertise to resolve. A drain cleaning services provider can also inspect your plumbing system for any underlying issues that might have contributed to the blockage. Some of the techniques we might employ to clear out stubborn clogs include hydro jetting, where we use pressurized water to blast away at the blockages.

Another way that we clear a clogged drain is through drain snaking where a specialized cable is inserted into the blockage and broken up.

Preventative Measures

Once the blockage is resolved, take steps to prevent future occurrences:

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule periodic inspections and cleaning of your drains.
• Proper Disposal: Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or large food particles down the drain.
• Use Strainers: Install strainers in your sinks and showers to catch hair and debris.
• Mindful Flushing: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Dispose of wipes, sanitary products, and other items in the trash.

Timely action and proper maintenance are key to a healthy plumbing system. For more help keeping your drains clear and flowing, contact Rockwater Plumbing.