How to Clean Basement Drain
How to Clean Your Basement Drain: A Guide for Homeowners
Why You Need to Clean Your Basement Drain
A clean basement drain is vital in avoiding water damage, odors, and possible plumbing troubles. Over time, your basement drain ends up clogged with debris, dirt, and grime that may subsequently cause slow draining or clogs. Fortunately, cleaning your basement drain needn't be an overwhelming task. With the proper tools and some elbow grease, you can keep your drain in order. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you rolling.
Basement drains are designed to handle water overflow but can easily become clogged with dirt and leaves, among other debris that might block their path. It is when water starts to build up in your basement that you would realize a drain is clogged, and mold growth, structural damage, or generally bad odors could become a reality. Regular cleaning will ensure that the drain works with efficiency and also protects your house from possible water damage.
If you're looking for a professional cleaning other than basement drains, look at Apartment Cleaning Austin for expert assistance in keeping up with a clean and healthy environment.
Tools You'll Need
What You Will Need Before you begin, fetch the following tools:
Rubber gloves
A bucket
A plumber's snake or drain auger
Wet/dry vacuum - optional
A stiff-bristled brush
Baking soda and vinegar (for natural cleaning)
A flashlight
How to Clean Your Basement Drain in a Few Easy Steps
1. Remove the Cover of the Drain
The first thing you will want to do is locate the basement drain. Most of them have a cover or grate on them that can be removed. Gently pry it up with the help of a screwdriver or pliers, and set it aside. Check the obvious debris in the drain.
2. Remove Large Surface Debris
Using your hands-with gloves on-or a small tool, remove large apparent debris from the drain opening, such as leaves, dirt, or hair. Set it aside in a bucket to later dispose of it.
3. Use a Plumber's Snake
If it still clogs after removing visible debris, it is time to use a plumber's snake. Insert the snake into the drain and twist gently to break any clogs that are deep inside the pipe. Pull out the snake and get rid of whatever debris it may bring up with it.
4. Cleaning of the Drain
Mix the baking soda and vinegar to make the solution. Pour down the drain and let sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. Immediately insert a stiff-bristled brush into the drain and scrub the interior of the drain and remaining grime.
5. Flush with Water
When the drain is clean, flush it with hot water to remove remaining debris or cleaning solution; this will further help in ensuring that the drain flows freely.
6. Replace the Drain Cover
Replace the drain cover securely after cleaning, making sure it fits to avoid debris falling back into the drain.
Tips to Keep Basement Drain Clean
Regularly inspect your basement drain for debris.
Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain because they tend to harden and block up the drains.
Install a drain strainer to catch large debris before it enters the drain.
Schedule professional maintenance to get rid of the clogging and slow drains.
For deep cleaning services, approach Cleaning Services Round Rock today and let professionals in the trade help you keep your home clean and healthy.
When to Call a Professional
While cleaning your basement drain is often a simple thing you can do yourself, there are other times when the services of a professional should be engaged. If you notice that your clogs are becoming an issue, causing foul odors to emanate from your drain, or possibly water backup, it would be in your best interest to consult a plumber. They will be proficient in using appliances and tools for deeper, more complex issues to get your drain back into excellent shape.
Conclusion
The clean-up of a basement drain is one of the simple things to do that might save you so much in case of repairs needed and water damages. With this guide and also keeping your drain maintained, one can be promised a dry, odor-free basement. For all your cleaning questions and needs, check out their website at Cleaning Services Round Rock to find how they can partner with you for a spotless home.
Name: Sparkly Maid Austin Cleaning Services
Address: 200 Congress Ave. Suite 200, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 617-5979
