One of the things that most homeowners won’t consider until it is too late is drain cleaning. Drain blockages can cause a variety of issues, from flooding your basement to water backing up into your sink or bathtub. Fortunately, there are a few easy techniques to unclog clogged drains and avoid problems altogether. For advice on unclogging a drain and when to call the pros, continue reading.
How often should the main drain be cleaned?
The majority of specialists advise homeowners to get their main drain cleaned once a year to avoid obstructions and maintain the system functioning properly. Hair, oil, soap scum, and debris are just a few of the things that can clog main drains. These obstructions might result in backups and sewage spills if they are not addressed. While some homeowners attempt to unclog main drains on their own, this is frequently unsuccessful and may even make the issue worse. The best course of action is often to contact a licensed plumber to clear the main drain.
Can I snake my own drain?
When drains get blocked, many people try to unclog them on their own, but this frequently causes more damage than good. Using plungers and commercial drain cleaners too frequently might harm your pipes because they’re not always effective. Although snaking a drain is a very easy task, it does call for the appropriate tools and some knowledge. But if you’re set on doing it yourself, you should be aware of these things.
A drain snake must first be rented or purchased. Make sure the snake is the proper size for your pipe; if it is too little, it won’t work, and if it is too huge, it can become stuck. As soon as you have the snake, put it in the drain and start to force it through the obstruction. Continue until the drainpipe comes to an end. Finally, rinse away any leftover particles with hot water. You should be able to clean your drain on your own with time and work, but continue with caution.
How do you unclog a drain if a snake does not work?
Sometimes a clog cannot be removed with a drain snake alone. In certain situations, you might have to physically clear the blockage and the drain cover. Although it can be a dirty and unpleasant operation, it is sometimes the only method to remove a really stubborn blockage. You ought to be able to reopen your drain with a little perseverance and hard work.
What chemicals do plumbers use to unclog drains?
To unclog drains, plumbers employ a range of substances. The most prevalent is lye, sometimes referred to as sodium hydroxide. Grease and other organic material that might block drains are broken down by the caustic ingredient lye. Additionally, plumbers will employ acids, such as hydrochloric acid, to dissolve hair and other clog-causing debris. Enzymes are another tool that plumbers occasionally employ to clear blockages in drains. Plumbers can efficiently clear blockages from drains using enzymes without harming the pipes.
What tools do plumbers use to unclog drains?
To unclog drains, plumbers use a variety of instruments, such as plungers, drain snakes, and hydro jetters. Perhaps the most common tool for cleaning drains is the plunger. They function by creating suction using air pressure, which aids in clearing the obstruction and allowing water to flow through the pipe. Long, flexible coils known as drain snakes may reach far down into the drain and dislodge tenacious obstructions. High-powered water jets called hydro jetters can blast obstructions away with a strong spray of water. Using the proper equipment, plumbers can unclog any drain quickly and efficiently.
There you have it, then. Everything there is to know about cleaning drains, plus a little bit more. When the time comes to unclog your own drains, perhaps this information has given you the knowledge you need to make an informed choice. Although prevention is usually the best option, accidents can sometimes occur, so always be ready!