At Vito Services, we believe informed homeowners are empowered
homeowners. That’s why we’re breaking down one of the most
important—yet often overlooked—parts of your plumbing system: your
drains. Whether you’re dealing with a clog, a backup, or just want to
understand how your home’s water system works, this “Drains 101” guide
will give you the essentials.
What Exactly Is a Drain?
A drain is any pipe in your home designed to move used water (and waste)
away from fixtures and appliances and out to the sewer or septic system.
Your drain system works alongside your water supply system—one brings
water in, the other takes it away.
Types of Drains in a Home
Here’s a quick breakdown of the types of drains you’ll typically find in a
house:
1. Fixture Drains
These are the drains directly connected to your sinks, tubs, showers,
toilets, and appliances (like dishwashers and washing machines). They
funnel wastewater into larger branch lines.
2. Branch Drains
These intermediate pipes collect water from multiple fixture drains and
direct it toward the main drain. You might have one for your kitchen, one for
bathrooms, etc.
3. Main Drain (or Sewer Line)
Here’s where things get a little technical. The main drain line is the large
pipe that runs underneath your home and carries all the wastewater from
your branch lines to the municipal sewer system or a septic tank. In
most cases, the terms main drain and sewer line are used interchangeably.
Water Supply vs. Drainage: What Goes Where?
– Water Supply Lines bring clean water into your home, usually
under pressure. These are typically made from copper, PEX, or
CPVC and connect to your municipal water source or well.
– Drainage Lines carry used or dirty water out. They rely on gravity
to flow downward, and are usually made from:
o PVC or ABS plastic (common in modern homes)
o Cast iron (older homes)
o Clay or Orangeburg (rare today, but still present in very old
sewer lines)
Common Drain Problems
Drain issues are more than just annoying—they can turn into expensive
repairs if not caught early. Here are the most frequent culprits:
1. Clogs
Grease, hair, food particles, and even “flushable” wipes (spoiler: they’re
not!) can build up and block drains.
2. Tree Root Intrusion
Roots from nearby trees can grow into underground pipes—especially
older clay or cast iron lines—causing blockages, cracks, and even
collapses.
3. Pipe Deterioration
Aging materials can corrode, crack, or collapse over time, especially cast
iron and Orangeburg (a tar-paper pipe used in the mid-20th century).
4. Improper Installation or Slope
Drains rely on gravity. If the slope isn’t correct, water and waste can pool,
leading to odors and backups.
Warning Signs of Drain Trouble
Watch for these red flags:
– Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets
– Water backing up in sinks, tubs, or basement drains
– Slow draining from any fixture
– Unpleasant sewer odors
– Wet spots or sinkholes in your yard (could indicate a leaking or
broken sewer line)
What You Can Do About Drain Issues
– Professional Drain Cleaning – Vito Services uses advanced tools
like motorized augers and hydro jetting to clear clogs safely and
effectively.
– Video Camera Inspections – To diagnose problems inside pipes
without digging.
– Trenchless Repairs – For certain sewer line issues, we offer non-
invasive solutions that don’t require tearing up your yard.
– Root Removal – We can remove roots mechanically and offer
chemical treatments to discourage regrowth.
Drain Do’s and Don’ts: A Quick Guide
✅ DO:
– Use drain strainers in sinks and showers.
– Dispose of cooking grease in the trash, not the sink.
– Run cold water when using the garbage disposal.
– Have your drains professionally inspected every few years.
❌ DON’T:
– Flush wipes, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, or diapers.
– Pour paint, chemicals, or medications down the drain.
– Ignore slow-draining fixtures—they’re often a sign of a bigger
problem.
– Use harsh chemical drain cleaners—they can damage your pipes
over time.
How to Keep Your Drains Clean and Flowing
1. Hot water rinse: Run hot water down sinks weekly to melt away
buildup.
2. Monthly baking soda + vinegar flush: A natural solution to clean
and deodorize pipes.
3. Annual professional maintenance: Think of it like a check-up for
your plumbing.
4. Watch what goes down: Being mindful is the easiest—and
cheapest—form of drain care.
Need Help with a Drain Problem?
Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or suspect something more
serious, Vito Services has been solving plumbing problems for over 90
years. Our expert team is ready with the latest technology and good old-
fashioned know-how.
Call us at 240-907-5084 to schedule your drain inspection or cleaning
today, or visit online at www.VitoServices.com—and keep your home’s
plumbing flowing smoothly year-round
