What to do when a drain is backed up

  • Stop using the affected fixture.
  • If several drains are involved, reduce water use throughout the property.
  • Keep people and pets away from wastewater.
  • Do not mix drain chemicals or keep adding cleaner to standing water.
  • If water is near electrical equipment, keep a safe distance and contact the appropriate professional.

How to tell whether the main drain is clogged

  • One slow sink or tub often points to a nearby fixture or branch line. A toilet that bubbles when another fixture drains, multiple slow drains or wastewater appearing at a low drain can indicate a deeper branch or main-line restriction.

When secondary drain cleaning may help

  • If one fixture or a nearby group of fixtures is affected, a blockage in a secondary drain (branch line) may be involved. See secondary drain cleaning in San Diego for branch-line signs and how it differs from a main sewer clog. A backup affecting several areas may point farther downstream; reduce water use and have the line assessed.

How to unclog a drain safely

  • A removable stopper or visible surface debris may be cleared without chemicals. Stop if wastewater returns, several fixtures are affected or the clog quickly comes back. The right professional method may be cable cleaning, hydro-jetting or a camera inspection depending on the pipe and obstruction.
Need a property-specific answer?

Online information cannot replace an on-site diagnosis. Call Scylla with the location and symptoms.

Call 619.419.7605