Do you have a clogged drain? If so, you’re not alone. A clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face. Not only can it be a huge headache, but it can also lead to a bigger problem if it’s not addressed on time. If your drains are constantly getting clogged, it’s time to take action and fix the problem the right way.
What causes a clogged drain?
Several things can cause a clogged drain, and one of the most common ones is hair. When you’re washing your hands, brushing your teeth, or taking a shower, there are always small strands of hair that fall out and get into the drain. Over time, these small strands of hair can build up and cause a clogged drain.
Another common culprit is grease and oil. If you’re in the habit of letting cooking grease or oil get into your drain, it may eventually harden as it cools off and clogs your drains. Other common culprits include food particles, toilet paper, and feminine products.
So, how exactly can you fix a clogged drain?
Use a plunger or snake to clear the clog
If your drain is clogged, the first thing you should do is try to clear it using a plunger or snake. A plunger can be useful for clearing small clogs, while a snake can be helpful for bigger ones. The plunger works by pushing air down into the drain and loosening up any debris or blockage that may be causing the problem. If your clog is large enough, you can also use a snake to help clear it out. On the other hand, a snake is a long, flexible metal coil that can be inserted into the drain to help break up any clogs.
If you’re not sure how to use a plunger or snake, your local hardware store should have some basic instructions on how to do so. Just make sure that you follow the directions carefully and don’t try anything too crazy, as this could cause more damage than good.
Pour boiling water down the drain
If you can’t clear the clog using a plunger or snake, your next step is to pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. This may help to loosen up any debris or blockages that may be causing the problem. It does so by melting the grease and fat that may have built up over time, which can then be flushed out of the drain.
Just make sure that you don’t pour too much-boiling water down the drain at once as this could cause damage to your pipes. It’s also a good idea to wait a few minutes after pouring the water in before trying to clear the clog again.
Use a chemical drain cleaner
If you’ve tried using a plunger, snake, and boiling water but the clog still isn’t cleared, it may be time to try a chemical drain cleaner. These cleaners are available at most hardware stores and work by dissolving any debris or blockages that may be causing the problem. Just make sure that you read the directions carefully and don’t use more than the recommended amount.
It’s also a good idea to put on some gloves before using one of these cleaners, as they can be very harsh on your skin. This is especially true if you have sensitive skin or any allergies to strong chemicals.
Call a professional
If none of these methods work and your clogged drain is still not clearing after trying them, it may be time to call a professional near you. For instance, if you live in Sacramento, all you need to do is make a quick online search with the words “plumber Sacramento” to get several options. A professional can use tools that are much stronger than what you have at home and will likely get the job done in no time. Ensure that you ask for an estimate before they start any work, as this can vary depending on the severity of the clog.
Fixing a clogged drain is something that everyone should know how to do, as it can save you from bigger problems down the road. By following these simple steps, you can clear out any clogs that may be causing problems in your drains. Just make sure that you take your time when doing so and don’t try anything too crazy to avoid causing more damage than good.
