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What is a Dry Drain and How Do I Prevent It?

Anta Plumbing clients already know what they should (and shouldn't!) flush down their drains in order to prevent clogs, sewer backups and costly plumbing system failure. However, just like a car that needs to remain well-oiled to work well, your drain system benefits from regular activity. That's why, when a house has been standing empty for a while, the drains can become dry and even end up clogging the main sewer line.

Today, we discuss the causes, the symptoms of dry drains and we consider some simple steps to prevent dry drains from happening again in the future.

Reasons for Dry Drain

Drains can dry out completely in as little as 2 weeks to a month, depending on the temperature, season and the rate of evaporation. On the face of it, a dry drain doesn't seem like a big issue, until you consider the debris, slime and sludge that might be trapped inside. Clogs occur when the drain is used again, causing water to loosen the debris, which runs down the drain, causing clogs in the main sewer line.

What happens when you have dry drains?

The most common issue with dry drains, is that the sewer line becomes clogged. Apart from wafty odors drifting into your home, it can cause clogged drains or sewer lines, which can be very inconvenient and may even lead to property damage. If raw sewage overflows into the home, it will cost a lot of money to clean it, keeping your family free from disease.

If you don't have master plumber skills, it is probably the best idea to call Anta Plumbing to clear your drains. While the process seems easy enough, using the machinery does require special skill and training, as well as knowledge of plumbing systems.

How to Fix a Dry Drain Line

Dry sludge, slime and debris inside the drain line can reduce the flow, which is how clogs happen. The clog should be removed as soon as possible to prevent sewer backups and the inevitable flooding. It is important to call a licensed plumber who knows how to handle powerful, modern plumbing equipment without causing further damage to your drains.

When you call Anta Plumbing, we will use a motorized power snake to push a metal cord (snake or auger) through your drains to unclog it. The snake is equipped with powerful blades that cut through stubborn blockages.

How to Prevent Dry Drains

Avoiding dry drain pipes is easier than you can imagine. Our master plumbers at Anta Plumbing recommend that you try to avoid dry drains, rather than putting up with the challenges it presents after the fact.

You can prevent dry drains by

➔ running water down each drain in your home at least once every month; that includes toilets, tubs, showers, kitchen sinks and your washing machines.
➔ pouring 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil down each drain before you leave your home for extended periods. The cooking oil will slow down evaporation and keep the drains moist.

If your drains are dry, don't continue running water down it until you have spoken to Anta Plumbing.

What do you think?

Written by Anta

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