How To Use A Drain Cleaning Bladder Device
If you have a serious clog in your kitchen drain, then you may need the assistance of a professional. However, you can try a few tactics on your own before calling in the pros. There are a number of different products and tools you can use to clear away clogs. One tool is called a blow tube, or a drain cleaning bladder. Keep reading to find out what this device is and how to use it.
What Is A Drain Cleaning Bladder?
A drain cleaning bladder is essentially a long, thick rubber tube with a connection on the end. This connector attaches to a garden hose and a hole on the other end of the bladder contains a hole, or a valve opening. The valve opens as the pressure inside the bladder increases substantially. This pressure is exerted from the water that fills the bladder.
Once the pressurized water is released through the valve, it is forced out the bottom. The water then hits the clog and pushes it through the drainage system. The fluid also works to release the dirt and debris that has accumulated on the sides of your drainage lines.
Keep in mind that the bladder tool releases enough pressure to release clogs, but not so much that your pipes will burst. However, if you have older steel pipes or if you are already experiencing small leaks, then it is wise to forego the cleaning and ask a plumber about a professional cleaning instead.
How Do You Use A Bladder?
Use the bladder by connecting a garden hose to the top attachment of the device. Make sure your hose remains off at this point. Stick the bladder into the clogged drain, making sure the valve is facing towards the clog. You want the bladder to block the flow of water coming out. Otherwise, the water will leak around the bladder instead of pushing on the clog.
When you are ready, turn your hose on. The water will fill the bladder for a few seconds and you may see it getting bigger, like a water balloon. When the pressure increases, the water will release. Water will continue to flow through the bladder, so leave it on for several minutes to flush out the drain.
Turn off the hose and remove the bladder from the drain once it deflates. If you see that water has accumulated and is not draining, then try the device again. Also, try running hot water through the drain. Sometimes, the bladder will loosen the clog and hot water is needed to fully dislodge it.
For more information, contact a company like Leo's Sewer-Drain Plumbing.