drain cleaning

5 DIY Drain Cleaning Methods to Try Before Calling a Professional

As a homeowner, you should have a few techniques up your sleeve for dealing with basic household problems like a clogged drain. It can be a great sensation to solve an issue yourself, not just because it can save you money on expert services. However, knowing when to bring in a professional plumber is critical, as some clogs and blockages are more serious than they appear and require specialized skills and equipment to fix.

Before you dial a plumber’s number, here are five DIY drain cleaning procedures you can attempt at home to unclog your drain:

The plunger: This popular household equipment is frequently used to clear a clogged drain. Fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the plunger’s rubber end, then position the plunger over the drain and press down firmly. The plunger’s suction should loosen and eliminate any blockages in the drain.

If the plunger doesn’t work, you can try producing your own drain cleaning with common household components. One typical way is to pour equal parts baking soda and vinegar down the drain. The chemical reaction of the two substances can aid in the breakdown and dissolution of any blockages. Simply flush the drain with hot water after about an hour to remove any residue.

A plumbing snake, also known as a manual auger, is a long, flexible rod with a spiral end that may be pushed into the drain to clear clogs. These tools are frequently available for purchase at a hardware store or for rent from a plumbing supply company. Insert the manual auger into the drain and spin the handle clockwise to work the auger through the obstruction. When using a hand auger, employ caution because it might damage pipes if not used properly.

If you prefer to use a store-bought solution, there are various commercial chemical drain cleaners on the market that can aid to break down and eliminate obstructions. Just make sure you carefully follow the label directions, as some of these products can be caustic and potentially hazardous to pipes if used incorrectly.

Hot water: A simple flush with hot water can sometimes be enough to dislodge a clog. Cook a pot of water and carefully dump it down the drain. The hot water might help to dissolve any grease or soap scum that is causing the clog.

If none of these solutions work to unclog your drain, it’s time to bring in a professional plumber. They will have the necessary skills and specialized tools to diagnose and repair the problem.

When you do call a professional, be prepared to discuss the problem and any efforts you’ve already taken to try to solve it. A qualified plumber can also advise you on how to avoid future clogs and keep your plumbing system functioning properly.

In conclusion, a clogged drain can be a frustrating problem for any homeowner, but there are various do-it-yourself solutions you can attempt before consulting a professional. There are various easy solutions that can typically do the trick, ranging from the trusty plunger to a DIY drain cleaning. Just be cautious and use common sense.

If none of these do-it-yourself solutions work to unclog your drain, it’s time to call a professional plumber. MJS Plumbing & Heating is available to assist you with any drain obstructions or leaks that are producing issues in your house. Our professional plumbers have the knowledge and instruments required to swiftly and efficiently identify and repair the problem.

Plumbing services include drain cleaning, leak detection and repair, and plumbing maintenance. No job is too big or too small for our staff, and we always aim to give excellent customer service and high-quality workmanship.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re having troubles with your plumbing system. We’re here to assist you get your plumbing back in working order and maintain it that way.