Apply Water Pressure — Verify and Retrieve
Part of project
How to Use a Drain Cleaning Bladder (Blow Bag) to Clear a Clog · Step 6 of 6
In this video
Walk back to the water spigot and turn on the water supply to the garden hose. The water will flow into the bladder, causing it to inflate and create a seal inside the pipe. High-pressure jets of water will then be forced out of the tip of the bladder, directed at the clog. The bladder and hose may pulsate as the pressure builds and releases. Allow the water to run for a minute or two to work on the blockage. You may see some water bubbling back out of the drain opening.
Goal: Force Water Pressure Against the Clog
- The hose might be forced out of the pipe due to the pressure. It's best if one person can hold the hose while another turns the water on and off.
- You might observe water pulsating or bubbling up from the drain opening, which indicates the tool is building pressure against the clog.
Used in this video
- Drain King Plumbing Bladder (brand: Drain King by GT Water Products, Inc., Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — To create a seal in the pipe and direct high-pressure water at the clog.
- Garden Hose (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Gardening Tools) — To supply water to the plumbing bladder.
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FAQs
How do I choose the correct size drain cleaning bladder for my pipe?
Selecting the right size is crucial for effectiveness and safety. Your drain bladder should match the interior diameter of the pipe you're clearing; for example, a 3-inch bladder for a 3-inch pipe. Using a bladder that is too small will not create enough pressure to dislodge the clog, while one that is too large might get stuck or not fit at all. Always measure your cleanout access pipe or consult your home's plumbing diagrams if unsure.
What essential safety precautions should I take when using a drain cleaning bladder?
Always wear safety glasses (like MCR Safety BearKat Safety Glasses) and sturdy gloves to protect against splashing water and potential debris. Ensure you have a clear understanding of where the water pressure will be directed and place towels around the cleanout to manage any overflow. Never exceed the recommended water pressure or use the bladder in a drain where chemical drain cleaners have recently been used, as this can create dangerous fumes.
What should I do if the drain cleaning bladder doesn't clear the clog?
If the initial attempt doesn't clear the clog, try repositioning the bladder slightly deeper into the pipe and apply water for a longer duration (up to a few minutes). If the clog persists, it might be too dense, too far down the line, or a different type of obstruction (like tree roots) that requires a different approach. At this point, consider using a drain auger or calling a professional plumber.
Can using a drain cleaning bladder damage my plumbing system?
Yes, improper use can potentially damage older, corroded, or PVC pipes, especially if the pipe joints are weak. To prevent damage, ensure you use the correct size bladder and apply water pressure in controlled bursts, rather than a continuous, high-pressure stream. If you suspect your pipes are old or fragile, it's best to consult a professional before attempting this method.
Apply Water Pressure — Verify and Retrieve
Part of project
How to Use a Drain Cleaning Bladder (Blow Bag) to Clear a Clog · Step 6 of 6
In this video
Walk back to the water spigot and turn on the water supply to the garden hose. The water will flow into the bladder, causing it to inflate and create a seal inside the pipe. High-pressure jets of water will then be forced out of the tip of the bladder, directed at the clog. The bladder and hose may pulsate as the pressure builds and releases. Allow the water to run for a minute or two to work on the blockage. You may see some water bubbling back out of the drain opening.
Goal: Force Water Pressure Against the Clog
- The hose might be forced out of the pipe due to the pressure. It's best if one person can hold the hose while another turns the water on and off.
- You might observe water pulsating or bubbling up from the drain opening, which indicates the tool is building pressure against the clog.
Used in this video
- Drain King Plumbing Bladder (brand: Drain King by GT Water Products, Inc., Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — To create a seal in the pipe and direct high-pressure water at the clog.
- Garden Hose (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Gardening Tools) — To supply water to the plumbing bladder.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the correct size drain cleaning bladder for my pipe?
Selecting the right size is crucial for effectiveness and safety. Your drain bladder should match the interior diameter of the pipe you're clearing; for example, a 3-inch bladder for a 3-inch pipe. Using a bladder that is too small will not create enough pressure to dislodge the clog, while one that is too large might get stuck or not fit at all. Always measure your cleanout access pipe or consult your home's plumbing diagrams if unsure.
What essential safety precautions should I take when using a drain cleaning bladder?
Always wear safety glasses (like MCR Safety BearKat Safety Glasses) and sturdy gloves to protect against splashing water and potential debris. Ensure you have a clear understanding of where the water pressure will be directed and place towels around the cleanout to manage any overflow. Never exceed the recommended water pressure or use the bladder in a drain where chemical drain cleaners have recently been used, as this can create dangerous fumes.
What should I do if the drain cleaning bladder doesn't clear the clog?
If the initial attempt doesn't clear the clog, try repositioning the bladder slightly deeper into the pipe and apply water for a longer duration (up to a few minutes). If the clog persists, it might be too dense, too far down the line, or a different type of obstruction (like tree roots) that requires a different approach. At this point, consider using a drain auger or calling a professional plumber.
Can using a drain cleaning bladder damage my plumbing system?
Yes, improper use can potentially damage older, corroded, or PVC pipes, especially if the pipe joints are weak. To prevent damage, ensure you use the correct size bladder and apply water pressure in controlled bursts, rather than a continuous, high-pressure stream. If you suspect your pipes are old or fragile, it's best to consult a professional before attempting this method.