Based on the topic being discussed, we’ll be focusing on the drain pipe with a special interest in how to unclog a septic tank drain pipe.

Most septic tanks are designed with two main pipes.

One of these leads into the tank and carries wastewater from the home. This pipe is known as the inlet pipe. The other pipe carries or transports effluent from the septic tank to the drain field. This pipe is known as the drain pipe.

Are you having clogging issues with your drain pipe and wonder how to contain it?

We’re here to help! You only need to read along to find out how to go about resolving such clog issues.

About Septic Drain Pipes

A septic system is never complete without the role played by the drain pipe. This takes out wastewater from the septic tank right to the drain field where it’s absorbed.

Now, most drain pipes are fitted with filters to keep solids from flowing down to the drain field.

So, if drain pipes are fitted with filters, what makes them clog?

First, every filter only serves its use for a set time after which it no longer functions effectively. This leads to all sorts of clogs from sanitary pads to wipes including scum.

When this happens, it blocks wastewater or effluent from getting to the drain field for further treatment. This situation leads to a backup which has to be fixed immediately by removal of all such clogs.

What steps can be taken to unclog a septic tank drain pipe? Read on for details on this and more.

Nature of Clogs

Most of the time, drain pipe clogs are caused by foreign objects introduced by users of a septic system.

A majority of these foreign objects aren’t bio-degradable and include sanitary pads and wipes as well as latex materials such as condoms and the likes.

Apart from these foreign objects, solids from the septic tank sometimes overflow into the drain pipe.

A steady accumulation of these will eventually block passage for effluent, resulting in difficulty in flushing among other things.

Getting Rid Of Clogs In Septic Tank Drain Pipes

When you notice symptoms such as slow drains or backups, such symptoms could point to several possible clog scenarios. Further investigation by a septic technician will reveal a drain pipe clog.

To get rid of the clog, you can adopt many strategies such as those outlined here.

Having established the presence of a clog in your drain pipe, the next step to take is to take action. A plumbing snake is one tool that comes in handy when dealing with clogs in drains.

This tool helps dislodge all sorts of foreign bodies or clogs within the pipe.

We understand that not every homeowner has this tool. Nevertheless, you don’t need to buy one as you can get a plumbing snake in a much easier way; renting one!

If you’re wondering where you can get one, home improvement and hardware stores offer such tools on rent.

Luckily, using a drain snake to unclog your drains isn’t rocket science at all! If you have zero knowledge of how to use it, a brief search on YouTube should turn up tons of results.

These video tutorials will guide you on how to proceed with unclogging your drain pipe.

Basically, this tool has a handle that you’re expected to hold while inserting the snake down the pipe, this is rotated until it touches the clog. A back and forth push is exerted while rotating to help dislodge the foreign objects or clog.

An additional way to unclog a septic tank drain pipe is by using a specialized tool that cuts up tree roots from drain pipes. There are lots of incentives for tree roots to grow into, and clog up a drain pipe.

First, such roots need access to water or moisture.

The biggest incentive is the fertilizing nature of effluent which is rich in nitrates. Upon close inspection, such roots should be eliminated to allow for free passage of water.

Sometimes, you may not have access to such tools necessary for the job.

A roto-rooter tool comes in handy for this type of task. You may want to consider renting such from your local hardware store or hiring the services of a reliable plumber.

The latter would be the better option as issues are also fixed.

  • Damage to Septic Tank Drain Pipes May Result

Sometimes, removing a clog within your drain pipe may be too late as such pipe may be damaged.

Tree roots may find their way in and crack it open. An assessment of the condition is necessary to determine the next appropriate step to take.

Damaged pipes may either be repaired or replaced. It all depends on the advice of your plumber.

Prevention: Best Remedy For Septic Drain Pipe Clogging

The best way to completely avoid clogs in your septic tank drain pipe is by taking appropriate action. Such action involves keeping all foreign objects out of the septic tank.

There are several of these items.

A few of them include cigarette stubs, dental floss, disposable diapers, earplugs, and sanitary napkins or tampons.

Others include plastics and paper towels. None of these should end up in your septic tank as they can easily clog up the system. Also, you’re saved a lot of repair expenses that normally accompany the resolution of issues.

You may also want to discuss with your plumber how best to prevent a repeat of the problem. Every advice counts towards maintaining a functional septic system as well as a healthy tank.

It will be beneficial to you to avoid planting trees or shrubs close to your septic system. This helps prevent drain clogs caused by tree roots.

Frequent inspections are also necessary.

Each year, consider having a septic technician perform an inspection of your septic system. This action discovers potential problems early on, thus saving you stress and fixing any issue that may worsen in the future.

Learning how to unclog a septic tank drain pipe is very necessary. You can easily solve the problem before it worsens. Persons interested in the DIY maintenance approach will find this most rewarding.

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