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Clogged Drains: What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Do

Clogged Drains: What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Do

One of the most frustrating things a homeowner deals with is when a fixture or sink in the home is not draining properly. You may be simply brushing your teeth, when suddenly you have to deal with a sink that will not drain. You might just be taking a morning shower when suddenly it looks more like you’re taking a bath.

While you are likely looking for a quick solution, this might not always be the best idea. Today, we detail the best solutions, quick ones and professional ones, and what you shouldn’t do when your drains are clogged.

The Danger of Drain Cleaning Chemicals

It seems that drain cleaning chemicals would be one of the easiest ways to unclog your drains. However, half the time, they really don’t work! That’s because the chemicals in drain cleaning liquids may be formulated to dissolve things such as hair, but not other common blockages like grease. It may only move the clog further along down the drain!

There are other reasons to avoid drain cleaning chemicals as well. They are highly toxic, and they can even wear down the lining of your pipes if used too frequently!

A Substitute: Baking Soda and Vinegar

One way to achieve a similar effect is with the same combination used to make those science experiment volcanoes in elementary school: baking soda and vinegar. First, add ½ cup of baking soda to the drain. Follow it up with a cup of vinegar. You’ll probably notice the bubbles, which means it’s working! Give it about 5-10 minutes before pouring boiling water down the drain.

Plungers

A go-to for most clogs, especially in the toilet and kitchen sink, should be a plunger. A plunger helps to create suction that allows blockage to loosen up and finally make its way down the drain. You just have to be persistent! Use the same pressure moving up as pushing down, and don’t be afraid to repeat the process a couple of dozen times if necessary.

Drain Augers

Home drain augers are sometimes effective. They can also make the process more frustrating when they don’t work. It takes some patience to use a drain auger properly. You have to continue pushing after you hit a snag to hook onto the blockage before winding it back up. The job may be completed faster when you call a skilled professional.

Professional Service

Professional drain cleaning service may be your only bet for some clogs. You might regret trying every store-bought solution before realizing that the problem requires professional tools. Call in a plumber when the plunger won’t do and the baking soda/vinegar appears to be doing little at all. We have a lot of tools at our disposal.

  • Motorized Drain Augers: Professional drain augers are motorized, allowing them to reach further down in the pipes and to break up tougher clogs with auger attachments like a rotating blade.
  • Video Pipe Inspection: A video pipe inspection allows us to get a closer look at the clog to determine what action will be most effective.
  • Hydro Jetting: Hydro jetting involves using a long, thin hose to blast water into the pipes and clear clogs, as well as debris and greasy residue—for a lasting clean.

For all your plumbing needs in North Dallas, TX, call Frymire Home Services: A Higher Degree of Comfort.

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