How to dissolve fatty deposits in sewer pipes: reasons, methods and advice

The reasons for clogged drain pipes in the bathrooms are hair and paper, but in the kitchen there is accumulated grease. Many do not know how to remove fat in the sewer, as they do not pay due attention to this problem.

Causes of fat build-up and its danger

Various wastes are poured into the sewer pipes every day: dirt, hair, grease, chemicals. If the rules or norms were violated at the installation stage, for example, the angle of inclination of the system was not maintained, then the fat, not having time to leave, begins to collect on the walls, gradually clogging the pipeline. This problem is typical for cast iron pipes, since their coating is not smooth inside, which contributes to the attachment of fatty deposits.

Fat ends up in pipes along with food waste, which people discharge into the sewer system or when washing greasy kitchen utensils.

The danger of fatty deposits in pipes lies not only in the inconvenience associated with the operation of the sewage system, but also in the emergence and reproduction of bacteria and microorganisms hazardous to health. In addition, it will constantly smell unpleasant from the drain hole.

To restore the operation of the pipelines, it is necessary to eliminate the fat build-ups formed on the walls. In some cases, it is possible to do this without analyzing the sewage system; it is enough to know several effective methods.

Cleaning methods

Cleaning methods can be divided into folk (using improvised means), chemical and mechanical. The choice largely determines the degree of clogging and the location of the plug. To obtain the best result, experts recommend combining methods.

Improvised means

Cleaning the pipeline in this case is carried out using the tools that are available in the kitchen of every housewife. Typically, these are vinegar, soda, and citric acid.

The most popular folk methods:

1. Baking soda is an effective remedy that does a great job with fat. To eliminate the blockage, pour a glass of the product into the drain hole, and then pour boiling water. Close the drain and do not use the sink for several hours. This method is suitable for all types of pipes.
2. Vinegar and soda is a versatile remedy that is considered more effective than the previous one. Citric acid can be used instead of vinegar, but in this case the substances are taken in equal proportions. The baking soda should be quenched with a little vinegar. As a result, you get a tingling mass that perfectly breaks down fat deposits. The gas produced by the chemical reaction will help push the blockage through. But there are limitations for this method - it is allowed only for plastic pipes. The acid is corrosive to metal surfaces.
3. Soda is another fat-fighting remedy. Coca-Cola, Sprite and other similar fizzy drinks that contain orthophosphoric acid will do. She then helps to eliminate fat plugs. The only drawback is the dyes that are added to the soda. They can paint the plumbing white, so clear drinks are recommended for cleaning sinks.
4. Chlorine - this includes household chemicals that are used for washing. For example, conventional chlorine-based bleach. To clear the blockage, it is poured in a large volume (sometimes several liters) into the drain and rinsed abundantly with running water. Some people advise using hydrochloric acid to cleanse the sewer system.

Drugs

When choosing drugs to eliminate fatty deposits in pipes, it is important to pay attention to their composition. The most effective are those that contain a strong alkali, usually sodium hydroxide (caustic soda). They are produced in granular, gel-like form. Liquids are less common. Sodium hydroxide not only removes grease and soapy film, but also disinfects the system from the inside. As auxiliary agents, manufacturers include antiseptics and surfactants in the composition. Of the available and effective means of this series, Super Mole can be noted.

Similar household chemicals are produced by other companies. For example, Mister Muscle, Trublon, Tiret, Pothan. The composition of all of them is identical, therefore, choosing from the proposed ones, you can safely purchase the cheapest.

Typically, chemicals are sold in unit-packaged units, each for 1 use only. It is advisable not to purchase large packs and then store them open. Active substances interacting with the environment under the influence of moisture fall on surfaces and corrode them.

Important! When using chemicals, safety precautions must be observed - all work must be performed in a respiratory mask and gloves.

The method of application is usually written on the packaging. If it is a liquid, then it is poured in a volume of 200 - 250 ml into the drain and left for 1-2 hours. If the preparation is granular or gel-like, 1 package is poured into the drain hole, poured over half a liter of boiling water and also left for 2 hours. After the appointed time has passed, the system is flushed with hot water from the tap.

Mechanical means

If the blockage cannot be eliminated by the methods described above, you will have to resort to more radical measures - use mechanical means to eliminate blockages:

1. Ventuz. It is applied to the hole so that the rubber is firmly in contact with the surface of the sink. By jerking up and down, pressure is created in the pipe, it helps to push the plug. Such a device is easy to use and does not take up much space.
2. Plumbing cable. It can be of various lengths - up to 50 meters, but for home use, 3 m is quite enough. A special cutting tip is installed on one edge, and a handle for rotation on the other. The cable is gradually pushed into the pipe by rotating the handle. Thus, the blockage is eliminated, the remains of deposits are washed with boiling water. To eliminate complex congestion, a steel tape is used. It is equipped with a comfortable handle and various attachments.