Is your underground drainage system backing up or draining slower than usual? Before calling in the pros, you might be surprised at how easy it is to tackle this problem on your own.
Besides, cleaning underground drainage pipes may sound like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can do it yourself without spending a fortune.
From using a garden hose to more advanced DIY tools, we’ll walk you through the effective steps to clean underground drainage pipes without professional help, along with ensuring your drainage flows smoothly.
Ready to take on the challenge? Let’s get started!
Signs Your Underground Drainage Pipes Need Cleaning
Before you grab your tools, it’s important to recognize when your underground drainage pipes need cleaning.
Here are some common signs to watch out for:
- Slow drainage or standing water: If you notice that water is pooling around your property or draining slowly, it’s often a sign of a blockage in the drainage pipes.
- Water backup in gutters: Clogs in your underground drainage pipes can cause water to back up into your gutters and downspouts, leading to overflow during rain.
- Foul odors: A blocked pipe can trap water and organic matter, leading to unpleasant smells around your drains or yard.
- Overflowing water during heavy rain: If your pipes can’t handle the water from a storm, you may see excess water overflowing from grates or downspouts.
- Visible soil erosion: If water can’t properly drain through the pipes, it may cause erosion around the area, leading to uneven soil or sinkholes.
Related Post: How to Unclog an Underground Outdoor Drainage Pipe Like a Pro
Tools You’ll Need for Cleaning Underground Drainage Pipes
Before diving into the cleaning process, gather the following tools and supplies:
- Garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle: Essential for flushing out debris.
- Drain snake or plumbing auger: A flexible tool for breaking up clogs inside the pipe.
- Plumber’s tape or sealant: For sealing any leaks or cracks in pipe joints.
- Wet/dry vacuum: Useful for suctioning out debris that water can’t remove.
- Root-cutting tool: If tree roots have invaded your pipes, this tool will help clear them out.
- Protective gear: Gloves, safety goggles, and old clothes are a must when working with drainage systems.
5 Essential Steps to Clean Underground Drainage Pipes Without Professional Help
Cleaning underground drainage pipes might sound like a tough job, but with the right approach, you can absolutely handle it yourself.
Hence, if you’re noticing slow drainage or unusual odors, or just want to keep your system in top shape, the following steps will help you get the job done:
Step 1: Locate the Problem Area
The first step in cleaning your drainage pipes is identifying where the blockage is. This is often the trickiest part, but there are some simple methods to help you out.
- Check the access points: These include drain grates, downspouts, and cleanout points. Look for areas where water seems to be backing up or flowing slowly.
- Trace the source: If you see water pooling in your yard or near the drain grate, the clog is likely nearby. Follow the pipe’s path to locate the most likely problem areas.
- Inspect pipe joints: Check any visible pipe joints for cracks or other signs of blockage. These areas are more prone to issues, especially if tree roots are nearby.
Step 2: Use a Drain Snake or Auger to Clear the Clog
A drain snake (also called a plumbing auger) is a flexible, coiled tool that’s perfect for breaking up clogs in underground pipes.
- Insert the snake: Feed the snake into the pipe through the cleanout point or downspout. Push it in until you feel resistance, which indicates you’ve reached the clog.
- Break up the clog: Twist the handle to rotate the snake and break apart the blockage. If the clog is caused by debris or roots, the auger will dislodge them.
- Check for success: You’ll know the clog is cleared when the snake moves more freely through the pipe. If it’s still stuck, keep working until you feel the resistance lessen.
Step 3: Flushing the Pipes with Water
After you’ve broken up the clog, the next step is to flush the pipes with water to remove any remaining debris.
- Use a garden hose: Attach a high-pressure nozzle to your garden hose and insert it into the pipe. Turn on the water and flush the pipe thoroughly, aiming to dislodge any leftover particles.
- Work through the system: Move the hose through different access points, ensuring you flush the entire pipe. The pressure should be strong enough to wash out any lingering dirt or sediment.
- Watch for clear flow: Keep flushing until the water runs out of the other end of the pipe smoothly and without obstruction.
Step 4: Vacuuming Out Remaining Debris
If there’s stubborn debris that the water didn’t clear, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to suction it out.
- Set up the vacuum: Attach the hose to your wet/dry vacuum and use it to suction out any debris left in the cleanout point or downspout.
- Remove large debris: For larger clumps of debris that are too big for the vacuum, use a gloved hand or a small tool to pull them out.
- Ensure a clean pipe: Keep vacuuming until no more debris is visible inside the pipe.
Step 5: Addressing Root Intrusions
Tree roots can be a major problem for underground drainage pipes. If you’ve noticed roots in your pipes, you’ll need to use a root-cutting tool to remove them.
- Insert the root cutter: Feed the root-cutting tool into the pipe through the cleanout point, similar to how you used the drain snake.
- Cut away the roots: Turn the tool to cut through any roots that have penetrated the pipe. You may need to repeat this process a few times, depending on the size of the roots.
- Prevent future root growth: Once the roots are removed, consider installing root barriers or using chemical root killers to prevent future growth into your pipes.
Related Post: 7 Steps to Running a Drainage Pipe Under a Driveway
Preventing Future Clogs in Your Underground Drainage Pipes
Now that your pipes are clean, it’s time to take steps to prevent future blockages. Here’s how to keep your drainage system in good condition:
- Install gutter guards: Gutter guards or drain covers can help prevent leaves and debris from entering the drainage system.
- Flush pipes regularly: Every few months, flush the pipes with water to keep them clear of sediment and buildup.
- Prune trees: Keep nearby trees pruned to prevent roots from growing into your pipes.
- Inspect the system: Make a habit of checking your pipes for signs of blockage or damage every few months, especially during the rainy season.
Concluding Words
Cleaning underground drainage pipes may sound intimidating, but with the right tools and techniques, you can handle it yourself without professional help.
By following these steps—locating the problem, using a drain snake, flushing the pipes, and vacuuming debris—you’ll ensure your drainage system stays clear and efficient. Besides, regular maintenance will help to prevent future clogs and protect your property from water damage, making this DIY task well worth the effort.
