Clogged drains can serve as unwelcome and annoying surprises. Slow-draining sinks, gurgling toilets, backed up showers, and drainage issues are common challenges you will face in your home. Luckily, with the right tools, these problems are usually simple to resolve. Here are some essential tips to keep the water in your home flowing as it should.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS FOR CLEARING CLOGS OR STOPPAGES?
Take Preventative Measures
The best way to deal with clogged drains is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be done by being mindful about what you put down your drains. Avoid things like hair, grease coffee grounds, and other debris. Utilize and regularly clean drain screens to catch hair and other particles that can lead to stoppages.
Use Hot Water and Dish Soap
This is a simple, yet effective method to prevent and resolve minor clogs. Pour hot water down the drain, followed by dish soap. The hot water will help dislodge grease and soap scum, while the dish soap acts as a lubricant that makes it easier for waste to move through the pipes.
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
The classic remedy of baking soda and vinegar is a powerful solution for unclogging drains and breaking down minor clogs. First, pour a cup of baking soda down your drain. Follow that with a cup of vinegar. This will cause a chemical reaction between the two that creates a fizzing action that breaks down grease and other debris. Let it sit for 15 minutes and flush the drain with hot water to clear away any leftover debris.
Use a Plunger
A plunger can be a homeowner’s best friend for more stubborn clogs. Make sure to use a plunger that is designed for the location you are using it for (sinks, toilets, etc.). Form a tight seal around the drain. With a few vigorous plunges, your blockages and clogs should dislodge with ease.
Use Chemical Drain Cleaners (Not Recommended)
While chemical drain cleaners like Drano, Instant Power, and their competitors can be effective, they should be used sparingly and with caution if you choose to do so. They contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to you and your plumbing system if used improperly. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions, use protective gear, and consider natural alternatives like Bio-Clean first.
Use an Auger, Plumbing Snake, or “Zip It” Style Drain Cleaners
These can be used to physically remove blockages when all other options have failed. Feed the tool down the drain and twist it back and forth to break up the clog and pull it out. This is particularly useful for more stubborn clogs that are not easily cleared by household remedies.