Wipes are the worst—“flushable” is such a joke. I’ve pulled out some gnarly clogs that looked like they could walk away on their own. If you’re seeing backups after rain, I’d bet on roots or a belly in the line, like you mentioned. Had a place last year where the camera showed roots weaving through every joint. Sometimes snaking helps for a bit, but if it keeps coming back, that camera inspection is the way to go. It’s not cheap, but it’ll save you guessing (and mopping up) in the long run. Grease sneaks up too—people don’t realize how fast it builds up. If you’re hearing gurgling, don’t wait... that’s usually the pipes begging for help.
That “flushable” label is such a scam—learned that the hard way after moving in.
Totally agree. I ignored the gurgling for a bit and ended up with a mini flood. Did you ever try enzyme cleaners for grease? I’ve heard mixed things, but curious if they actually help or just delay the inevitable.If you’re hearing gurgling, don’t wait... that’s usually the pipes begging for help.
Those “flushable” wipes are the worst—my instructor calls them “pipe grenades.” I’ve seen a couple of basements get wrecked because people trusted that label. About enzyme cleaners, I’ve actually tried them at my old place when the kitchen sink kept slowing down. They seemed to help with the smell and maybe kept things moving for a bit, but honestly, once the clog got bad enough, nothing short of snaking the line really worked.
I always wonder if those cleaners just sort of soften up the gunk so it moves further down and causes trouble somewhere else. Anyone ever had them actually clear a big clog? I’m kind of paranoid about relying on chemicals in older pipes, especially if you don’t know what’s already lurking down there. Sometimes it feels safer just to go straight for the auger, even if it’s a pain.
I always wonder if those cleaners just sort of soften up the gunk so it moves further down and causes trouble somewhere else.
Honestly, I’ve seen that happen. Enzyme stuff is fine for maintenance, but once you’ve got a real clog, it’s usually just delaying the inevitable. Chemicals in old pipes can be risky—seen some joints leak after too much drain cleaner. Auger’s a pain, but at least you know you’re actually clearing it out. You’re not being paranoid, just practical.
Auger’s a pain, but at least you know you’re actually clearing it out.
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve tried every “miracle” cleaner out there, and most just push the mess further down the line. Had a slow drain turn into a full-on backup after using one of those foaming products—never again. Auger’s not fun, but at least you see what comes out. If you’ve got old cast iron pipes, chemicals can eat away at the joints over time too... not worth the risk in my book.
