What is the black gunk in my basement drain?

Question

I posted a question on how to fix my basement drain. Well we have now been using a snake on it for an hour or so and the water has gone down about 4 inches. I am assuming that we are slowlyi unclogging it, however we are having to take black gunk off of it. What could this be? And are there any chemicals to get through it?????

Answer 1

sounds like it could be caviar, you put it on crackers and it's real good

Answer 2

This is a G rated forum so I have to choose my words carefully. The black stuff is the mixture of what goes into the sewer system plus water plus gazillions of bacteria. The pipe is like a miniature septic tank with bacteria eating the "things" and converting them into less organic "things." Get the idea.

This is why snaking is such a dirty job. Well, at least one reason. Be sure to wash very carefully before touching your eyes or mouth while snaking. This stuff has a lot of bacteria in it. Think E-coli.

Keep at it, it can take time. Chemicals will help dissolve some clots, it depends on what it is. You do NOT, repeat NOT want any chemicals in there while you are snaking. The harsh chemicals, e.g. Drano, are dangerous to splash on you. The enzymatic chemicals take a lot longer to work, but are okay to splash on you. Sorry for the visual.

Sometimes, you just need to snake further. I always know where the clog is when I do the snake. It is always two feet beyond the reach of my snake, no matter how long the snake is, LOL.

Actually, I usually do get it, only once did I have to call a Roto-Rooter type person. Then again, I did not have tree roots clogging my lines.

Answer 3

If it is clogged call Roto-rooter. The clog could extend all the way to the street. It could be roots, sewer back-up or whatever you may have flushed down the toilet. It might cost $100 but the problem will be solved. let someone else take the liability.

Answer 4

Some things are better left unknown, but a snake is the best bet for unclogging it.