AboutRob Janus Expertise Recycling, solid and liquid waste management, social and environmental procurement,
transportation demand management, energy and resource conservation, green buildings and
corporate environmental management systems.
Experience 20 years working in the public and private sector waste management field.
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Arts in Economics.
Expert: Rob Janus Date: 4/28/2008 Subject: septic outlet pipe blockage
Question Hi Rob-
after investigating a septic problem, we've found the outlet pipe is solidly blocked. We found our water conditioner has failed and the blockage is a solid metallic material. (water has an extremely high rust/iron content). We've tried a low power snake (hand-held drill powered) with a little bit of success. Question - how can we "bust through" this blockage. We can rent a higher-powered, heavier duty snake with a variety of bits. Also, do you know of any chemicals that might break down the blockage? We know about iron-out and all the other lye-based commercial products. ANy help appreciated and Thanks - Rob W.
Answer Hi Rob,
Thank you for your question. It sounds like you're on the right track as far as removing the blockage, though I'm a little unclear on some of the specifics of your situation.
By "outlet pipe" I assume you're talking about the main sewer line leaving your house, before it gets to the septic tank? Also, you didn't mention what your sewer line was made of. Both of these missing points limit my ability to accurately diagnose the situation and recommend a course of action. However, you really don't have a lot of options anyway.
Using a larger snake is a good idea, though I would suggest running a remote camera unit into the line first to make sure you know what you're dealing with. I recommend using a qualified company to do this and then run their snake unit as necessary. You might save some money by renting and doing this yourself, but an experienced technician is more likely to be able to solve the problem quickly and efficiently. Just running the large snake into a blockage like this could actually rupture the pipe and cause more damage than good.
Of course, the possibility exists that the blockage might be so significant that even having a professional remove it would mean tearing up the pipe along with it. In that case, you have no option but to dig it up and replace it. Given that you've already had some success with the smaller snake though, I'm guessing this won't be the case. Again though, an experienced technician can assess the situation on site best.
I recommend checking with your Better Business Bureau to find a company to do the work. You could also ask friends/colleagues for recommendations. The last thing I'd do is just pick a company out of the phone book. Unfortunately, there are a lot of companies out there that are happy to make a mountain out of a mole hill just to line their own pockets.
As for chemicals to break the blockage down, I think you're out of luck. There's nothing I know of that will remove a blockage like you describe adequately. Mechanical removal is your best option.
Hope that helps. Good luck, and please let me know how it works out.
