How to Fix Your Clogged Drains
Almost everyone is going to experience a clogged drain in their home at some point. While these clogs may require a professional plumber for more severe issues, here is a closer look at some simple steps that can be taken to clear clogged drains or avoid them altogether.
What to Avoid
Most clogs are caused by placing everyday household items down the drain, especially for those with an older plumbing system. This includes most hygiene products, oils, paint, grease, or powders. It is also important to refrain from placing egg shells, animal bones, larger food scraps, coffee grounds, or any corrosive substances down the drain or flushing them down the toilet.
Chemical Drain Cleaners and Traps
Over the years, even newer sewage systems will begin to collect residue in the sink’s trap or along the inside of the pipe. Many times, this will not completely clog the drain outright, but it could cause the sink to drain slowly after every use. If this is the case, residents can begin by cleaning out the traps which are often clogged with hair or food debris. Over-the-counter chemical drain cleaners can also be used to strip away the residue that can lower the efficiency of the pipes.
Snaking and Plunging
Separate plungers should be kept for sinks and toilets and will help to push away smaller clogs that are not farther down in the system. If a plunger is used on a two-sided sink, the drain that is not being plunged should be covered with a damp rag to promote suction. Snaking is a little more complex and should only be carried out by those that know the type of clog that has taken place, the size of the pipe, and how to properly remove obstacles that should be there such as the catch or mesh filter.
Signs a Professional Is Needed
It is important for everyone to know when a project is no longer DIY and a professional will be needed. Primarily, this will be any time that one or more sinks are no longer draining properly or when multiple sinks have all become clogged at once. Those that detect any sewage smells around their home or near drains should also contact a plumber from places such as Capital Care Plumbing, as the primary sewage line is most likely backed up and specialized tools will be needed.
Water damage is the second most common cause of homeowner losses, but this can often be prevented with a few basic maintenance and service steps.