drains
I have some slow flowing drains that back up when it rains that I need to clear out. As there are no manholes or rodding points, I can only access them via the P-trap connected to an outside hopper.
I have a basic Karcher power washer that I can get a drain cleaning jet for, or I could get a Drain Snake to attach to my drill. Which should I use?
(Rods are not an option due to the P-trap.)
Some washing machines have strong pumps that discharge lots of water quickly, overcoming the capacity of the drain standpipe. Yes, unless you can see it on the outside of the wall, there is a standpipe in the wall. You should consider increasing the diameter of the standpipe, thereby increasing the volume of water it can hold as the discharged water drains. I frequently use plastic pipe (PVC, ABS) and fittings for this.
This is not to say you don't need to also clear the drain, to do this you need a good quality 1/4" drum auger with a stiff cable. The good ones are expensive but will last a lifetime if used and maintained properly. I have had the same one since 1996 and have saved hundreds (thousands?) of $$ by clearing virtually every local clog myself (my neighbors' too).
There is some skill involved. Go to an actual plumbing shop to find a high quality auger and to get good advice on how to use it properly (or buy one and post another question about how to use it).
The good ones look like this:
Not like this:
Just read the brochure, its all in there.
On-Grade Drains
on-grade floor drains are for use in ground-level applications, or where a waterproofing membrane is not needed.
Flashing Drains
Flashing drains are typically installed when a waterproofing membrane is used to protect finished areas under the drain.
you are going to want an on grade drain for almost all basement slab applications
Best Answer
If there is a blockage (which it sounds like there is since it's backing up) then you probably want to snake it before jetting since jetting alone is not going to remove a big blockage. How big is the drain? If it's large (like a 4" sewer line) then a power drill snake is probably not going to cut it and you need a drain auger with a larger diameter and some attachment options. Something like this: .