How to Get Rid of Clogged Drains
Clogged drains often require professional help. Store-bought chemical cleaners can corrode pipes and usually do not fully dissolve clogs.
Using vinegar and baking soda to clean your drains is a safe alternative that does not use harsh chemicals. Making it a routine will prevent serious problems and nose-pinching smells. Contact Drain Cleaning Perth now!
Chemical drain cleaners are one of the most common solutions for clearing blocked plumbing. They work by releasing chemicals that are designed to break down organic materials found in most household clogs, such as hair, grease, and soap scum. Most chemical cleaners do this by a process called oxidation. This means the chemical releases electrons that cause the clog to lose its mass and fall apart.
The problem with using chemical drain cleaners is that they are harsh on pipes, harmful to human health, and detrimental to the environment. They also pose a risk to children and pets when not used properly. If the chemicals come into contact with skin, eyes, or lungs, they can cause severe burns. Chemicals also contaminate water and soil if not properly disposed of. This is why it’s important to use these products responsibly and only when absolutely necessary.
Most chemical drain cleaners come with long lists of warnings and application instructions. It is also important to wear gloves and a face mask when using them. Moreover, these products should never be used in environments where there is limited ventilation. This is because they often release noxious fumes that can be damaging to the nose, eyes, and lungs.
Homeowners can reduce the use of chemical drain cleaners by regularly performing preventative maintenance. This includes regular inspections of the plumbing system and identifying any potential problems early. Taking care of small issues early on can help avoid major problems down the line, such as costly repairs and flooding. In addition, homeowners can reduce the chances of a clog by keeping food and other items out of the plumbing system.
Plumber’s Snake
A plumber’s snake, also known as a drain auger, is your secret weapon against pesky clogs. It consists of a long, flexible metal cable with an auger head on one end that spins inside the pipe to break up and remove blockages. Feed the snake into your sink drain and twist the handle to crank it through the pipes until it encounters the clog. The twisting action of the auger end clings to the clog and pulls it back up along with the snake.
Before using the snake, you should prepare by covering your work area with old towels or shirts and wearing rubber gloves. This will prevent any snags on the clog or its debris as you feed the snake through the pipe. It is also a good idea to remove the trap arm from the p-trap before you start snaking. This will give you the best access to the drainpipe. You should also look inside the drainpipe for any obstructions, so you can avoid them when using the snake.
Once you’ve removed the trap arm, insert the snake’s head into the drain or access point on the wall. It’s important to use minimal force when pushing the snake into the pipe, as excessive pressure could damage the drain entrance or pipe. Also, never run hot water while snaking a drain. The heat can cause the clog to dissolve faster, and the hot water could actually stick to the p-trap.
Once you feel the snake’s head cling to the clog, twist the handle to move it up and down and side to side. Doing so will help break up or dislodge the clog and will allow you to slowly pull the snake out of the drain along with the obstruction. If the snake is unsuccessful at breaking up or removing the clog, try using a different snake head or seeking professional help.
Boiling Water
Pouring boiling water down a drain is a tried-and-true home remedy that can often remove certain types of blockages. The heat of the water helps to melt grease and soap scum, which can then flow more easily through pipes. This method is especially effective when used in conjunction with other natural cleaners such as dish soap or baking soda.
Be careful when using boiling water, however, as it can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. Always carefully monitor the temperature of the water and be sure to pour it in stages to avoid splashes. Also, be sure to assess the material of your pipes before attempting this method. In some cases, the high temperatures of boiling water can actually cause damage to PVC pipes.
It is recommended that you use this method with a friend or partner to avoid potential injuries from scalding steam or sudden water pressure changes. In addition, it is advisable to wear eye protection and gloves when handling hot water in order to reduce the risk of burns. Additionally, it is important to pour the water slowly and steadily down the drain in order to prevent scalding and to allow the liquid to work its way through the clog before adding more.
In addition to being a safe and effective method for cleaning some types of drains, this technique is also cheap and easy to do. Many savvy homeowners have also found that the corrosive properties of certain soft drinks can be a powerful tool in clearing stubborn drain clogs. Cola is an especially effective solution for tackling tough grease and hair clogs, as it can dissolve a variety of organic materials that may have been causing the blockage.
Dish Soap
Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn grease clog or simply need to keep your drains working properly, you can use ingredients you already have at home. Unlike chemical cleaners that can actually be damaging to your pipes, soap is non-toxic and safe to use. The key is to use a mild soap with degreasing properties, which will remove the build-up and leave your drains smelling fresh and clean.
The first thing you’ll want to do is clear out the sink and remove any food residue. Then, put a few squirts of dish soap into the drain. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then flush it with boiling water. You may need to repeat this a few times before the drain is fully cleared, but it’s a great way to prevent clogs before they happen.
If you have a really stubborn clog, try mixing baking soda and vinegar. The acidity of the vinegar will dissolve the hair and soap scum, while the baking soda will help to break down any remaining build-up in your pipe.
Another way to use dish soap for your clogged drain is to pour a cup of boiling water down the drain, followed by a tablespoon of liquid detergent. The soap will melt the grease, and the boiling water will flush it away with ease.
Hot Water
A clogged drain is one of life’s little irritations that can turn into a big headache if left untreated. Many people’s instinct is to reach for liquid drain cleaner in a hurry when they notice a slow-moving or blocked drain, but this can be harmful to your pipes as well as your health. Chemical drain cleaners release harsh fumes that can irritate your skin and eyes. They can also kill the bacteria in your septic tank that breaks down organic waste.
A better solution is to use hot water to clear a clogged drain or prevent future clogs. Pouring boiling water down a drain can help dissolve grease, hair, and soap scum that accumulate in the pipe walls. This method can also be used as an alternative to using a plunger. However, be careful not to use too much force when poking the drain with the metal nozzle of the kettle. Too much pressure can damage or bend the drain’s pipe wall.
You can heat the water in a pot on the stove or in a large pourable measuring cup in the microwave, and then slowly and steadily pour the hot water down the drain. Be sure to keep your face and body away from the drain while pouring to avoid burns. This simple remedy can be repeated a few times to thoroughly clean and clear the drain. If you have a regular schedule of doing this, it can prevent the buildup of clog-causing materials and keep your drains flowing smoothly. Alternatively, try pouring baking soda down the drain with a bit of vinegar to create a chemical reaction and dissolve blockages. Baking soda is a natural household product that can be purchased at any grocery store, and it also has slight disinfectant properties to combat odor-causing bacteria and fungi.