Do you have a drain pipe that is broken underground? This can be a difficult repair to make since you can’t see it or may have trouble accessing it. However, if you’re able to locate the area where the leak is you should be able to dig up the pipe and repair it without having to call a plumber.
Keep reading to learn how to fix a broken drain pipe underground.
Locate the Leaking Pipe
If you have a pipe that is leaking underground you should be able to locate it by looking for wet areas, extra green grass, or sinkholes that are starting to form. If the damaged pipe is carrying wastewater you might notice a foul odor in the air.
If the pipe that is broken is connected to your sprinkler system then you will be able to tell its general location. The sprinklers that are attached to the broken pipeline will either not have as much pressure or any water coming out at all.
If the damaged pipe is in an area that you are unable to access, you should have a professional use spray in place pipe which doesn’t require the pipe to be dug up for repair.
Next, you will need to have the water main shut off. You should have access to the water main or you may need to contact the city if your home is on city water.
Cut Off the Broken Pipe
Once the water has been shut off you can begin digging a hole to reach the broken pipe. Once you have reached the pipe, identify the area that is damaged, and mark the area that needs to be repaired.
Then, starting six inches away from the mark on both sides, use a hacksaw to cut through the pipe. Be careful to keep your cutting a straight as possible. Once you have removed the piece of pipe, use it to measure the length of the new pipe you will need.
Replace Broken Section
Use PVC primer on the outside of the end of the new and existing pipe. Then apply the PVC primer on the interior of the PVC coupling. Allow the primer to dry before applying the PVC glue to all the areas that have the primer.
Then push the half of the coupling onto the new pipe, wait about one minute to make sure it is stuck well, and then push the other half of the coupling onto the new existing end of the pipe. Wait at least two hours for the glue to fully dry before turning the water main back on. Allow the system to run for about 20 minutes to ensure that everything is working well before you fill the hole back in.
Learn More About How to Fix a Broken Drain Pipe Underground Today!
These are the basic steps for how to fix a broken drain pipe underground. Start by identifying where the area is that has the broken pipe, and then shut off the main water to your home. Once you have located the area, dig a hole to locate the pipe or call a professional if it’s not in an area you can access.
Mark the damaged area of the pipe and then cut it at least six inches away from the damage on either side. Then apply PVC primer and glue to the new pipe, existing pipe, and the coupler. Once all the pieces are assembled together let dry for two hours before turning on the main water.
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