Ideas for Drain Cleaning
At some point during homeownership, most individuals will have a clogged drain that they will have to clear. Many people call a plumber at times like this while others decide to see if they can do the job themselves. Depending on the severity of the clog, some handy DIYers are able to handle it while others aren’t. For those who’d like to give it a shot, here are some ideas about clearing clogged drains:
- Sluggish ones: Sometimes a sink or shower will become sluggish as it releases the water from the region. This is a red flag that a potential clog is ready to occur. If possible,
it’s best to tackle the issue before it turns into a full-scale backup. One way to achieve success is to run hot water through it regularly. If it’s the shower or bathtub, checking to make sure there isn’t a wad of hair slowing it down would be a wise step.
- Natural cleaners: Some more natural products than the regular chemicals found in the hardware shop might do the trick. Vinegar is one agent that breaks down debris. Salt water can sometimes help, too. Baking soda put into the system regularly will also help to eliminate problematic odors caused by buildup of food discards and sediment.
- Chemical products: There are various chemical products on the market for drain cleaning. A homeowner must proceed with caution however because some of the fumes are toxic and offensive. Reading the warning labels is crucial because some plastic pipes will be damaged by certain chemicals. Heed all warnings!
- Tools: Some plumbing tools that could help include a plunger and a plumber’s snake. Applying force via the plunger can send the clogging culprit through the pipes, allowing water to flow freely again. A plumber’s snake is a metal tool that will basically ream the clog and break it down in order for it to be pushed through.
- Garbage disposals: If the holdup is in the garbage disposal portion of the kitchen sink, a homeowner will need to take a slightly different approach. Making certain that the switch is set to “off,” a person should put his or her hand or fingers into the opening to check for items that might be causing the problem. Sometimes items fall into this opening that shouldn’t have or vegetable peels may have slid into the mechanisms.
Once the area has been cleared, pushing the red re-set button should get everything rolling again. Word of advice: When peeling cucumbers, potatoes or carrots, peel them into the trashcan or compost pile.Their peeled skins are the perfect size for jamming up the machinery.
When drains clog up, a homeowner can try natural remedies such as salt, vinegar or baking soda. He or she can also try harsher chemical products if all directions are followed carefully. Plumbing tools such as a plunger or metal snake may do the trick. But if these tactics fail, a call will need to be placed to a professional. Drain cleaning isn’t always as easy as it might appear.
