Why keep a log
Memory is poor at drain problems. Was it the hall tub or the kitchen last spring? Did the plumber say the cable hit something near the house or out by the sidewalk? Those details are exactly what separates a random clog from a pipe defect that will keep causing trouble.
Print this page, keep it with your house papers or tape it inside a cabinet, and add a line every time a drain misbehaves. It takes a minute and pays off the first time someone asks, "how often does this happen?"
The log
| Date | Fixtures affected | What you noticed | What was tried | What came out | Distance to clog |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| e.g. hall tub, both toilets | Tub filled when toilet flushed | Stopped water, called | Paper and fine roots | About 40 ft from cleanout | |
What to note each time
- Which fixture misbehaved first, and which others followed
- Whether water came up anywhere it should not, such as a tub, floor drain or cleanout
- Anything unusual in the days before: guests, a big meal, heavy laundry, rain
- What you tried, including any product poured down the drain
- What the plumber found on the cable head: roots, grease, paper, wipes, scale
- How far the cable or camera went before reaching the problem
- Whether a camera inspection was done, and where the footage is kept
Reading your log
- IfDifferent fixtures, different causes, months apartProbably ordinary clogs; focus on habits.
- IfThe same fixture keeps returningSomething in that trap or branch is catching debris; ask for a closer look.
- IfThe main line backs up on a regular cycleRoots or a sag are likely; a camera inspection is the next step.
- IfThe distance to the clog is the same every timeA fixed defect at that spot is very likely.
Bring the log to these questions
- Does this pattern suggest roots, a sag or something else?
- Is it worth a camera inspection now rather than another clearing?
- Is the problem spot on the house side or near the street?
Common questions
How long should I keep the log?
Indefinitely. It is also useful when selling the house or if a repair is ever needed.
Should I log slow drains or only full clogs?
Both. A gradual slowdown is often the early stage of the same problem.
Is a phone note good enough?
Yes, as long as you capture the same details each time and can find it later.
General information for Stanton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.