When you’re going about your day, the last thing you want to run into is a clogged drain. From disrupting your morning routine to preventing tasks like cooking or cleaning, a plumbing problem can be more than just an inconvenience. When faced with a blockage, your first instinct might be to reach for a chemical drain cleaner, but it’s important to know that this could do more harm than good. Instead, let’s explore some safer and more effective ways to tackle a clog and restore the function of your plumbing without compromising your pipes.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Drain Cleaner
Most of us have turned to a chemical drain cleaner like Drano at some point, thinking it would be a quick fix. While it might provide temporary relief for slow-moving drains, these cleaners often don’t address the root cause of the problem and can lead to significant damage if you use them often.
Here’s why:
Weakened Pipes
Most drain cleaners are lye-based. While the reaction they create can break through blockages, it also weakens pipes over time. For galvanized pipes, the lye can strip away the zinc coating, leaving iron or steel exposed and prone to rust or corrosion.
Damaged Plastic Pipes
The heat generated by the chemical reaction can soften or warp plastic pipes, especially when used frequently.
Limited Effectiveness
Chemical cleaners are often ineffective against severe or complex clogs, leaving you with a lingering problem.
To protect your plumbing, skip the chemical cleaner and try one of these alternative methods instead.
Hot Water, Baking Soda, and Vinegar
To tackle small blockages, try this household solution. The reaction between the vinegar and baking soda can help cut through soap scum, grease, or other build-up, while the heat from the boiling water can flush the debris through. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain.
- Add a half cup of baking soda and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Slowly pour a mixture of one cup of vinegar and one cup of hot water down the drain.
- Cover the drain to let the reaction work its magic for 10-15 minutes.
- Slowly flush with boiling water a little at a time to ensure the blockage clears completely.
- Repeat if you need
Be aware though, if you’ve already tried a chemical drain cleaner, don’t use this method. Mixing chemicals can create dangerous fumes or reactions.
Use a Plunger
A plunger can be a powerful tool for clearing clogs, using pressurized water to loosen and remove blockages. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Ensure there’s enough water in the sink, tub, or toilet to cover the plunger.
- Position the plunger so it completely seals the drain opening.
- Push and pull vigorously for about 20 seconds.
- Check if the clog is gone by flushing the toilet or running water down the drain.
This method is great for tougher clogs but may not be effective for soft blockages, like grease or soap scum.
Use a Drain Snake
A drain snake (or auger) can help remove clogs that are deeper in your pipes. You can choose between plastic or metal snakes to remove the blockage, each has benefits and drawbacks. A plastic snake is cheap and effective but could break if the clog is severe. A metal snake is better for tougher blockages, but improper use can cause damage, such as scratching your pipes or leaving part of the blockage intact. While this tool can be helpful, we don’t recommend using it unless you have previous experience. For more severe or recurring clogs, it’s best to leave them to the professionals.
Call a Plumber!
If your DIY efforts aren’t cutting it, it’s time to call in the experts. Expert plumbers have the tools and knowledge to remove even the toughest clogs while keeping your plumbing intact. They can use in-line camera inspections to locate the clog and use drain snaking, cabling, or hydro-jetting to restore its function. Just be sure, if you’ve already used a chemical drain cleaner, let your plumber know. If additional work is required, such as opening the drain, residual chemicals could be a hazard.
Tips for Preventing Clogs
The best way to deal with clogs is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your drains running smoothly:
Use drain covers in the shower or sinks to catch hair, food particles, and other debris.
Scrape food into the trash instead of down the sink, and dispose of grease or oil in a sealed container.
Dispose of paper towels, wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, or dental floss in the trash instead of flushing them.
Schedule regular plumbing inspections and professional drain cleaning at least once a year.
By taking these simple steps, you can extend the life of your plumbing and save yourself the headache of dealing with major clogs.
Protect Your Pipes and Restore Your Plumbing
At Garrett Plumbing, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch service that you can rely on. From drain cleaning to leak repair and pipe replacement, we’ve got all your plumbing needs covered. Our team uses advanced tools like in-line cameras to diagnose problems accurately and non-invasively, ensuring your home is treated with care and respect.
When you choose Garrett Plumbing, you’re choosing a team that prioritizes your home’s health and your family’s comfort. Contact us today to schedule your service and experience the difference for yourself!
