How to Unclog a Main Drain

If you have a house full of backed up sinks, the main drain is probably clogged. You will need to use an electric auger to unclog the drain, and you can rent one of these machines at your local hardware store. In the basement or crawl space of your home, there should be a clean-out for the main drain. It should be at the farthest end of the drain, and this is where you insert the auger cable.

Things You'll Need

• Electric auger

Instructions

1. Remove the cap to the clean-out. Turn on the electric auger's motor and insert the auger cable into the clean-out. The cable will move forward inside the drain pipe. With the electric auger, you won't be cranking, so you won't feel when you reach the clog. However, you will hear the motor slow.

2. Reverse the auger motor to back the cable out a bit when you reach the clog, then move the cable forward again. Continue this back and forth motion until you cut through the clog.

3. If augering doesn't unclog the main drain, auger the drain from the house to the sewer or septic system. There should be a point where the main drain leaves the house. Remove the cap and auger there the same way.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear protective gear such as rubber gloves and goggles or a face shield. Keep children away from the electric auger.

References

• Raymond Hardware