3 Tips For Properly Clearing Clogged Drains
While you may be eager to run to the store and buy a drain cleaner to unclog your drains at home, this is not always the best option. These products can be incredibly damaging to your pipes because of the acid and other chemicals in them and they will likely cause more harm than good. Thankfully, there are other ways to clear your drains that are just as effective and much less harmful. Here are three tips for properly clearing clogged drains.
Hot Water
One of the first things that you can do to try and remove the clog in your drain is to run hot water down it. Turn your faucet to the hottest setting possible and let it run until the sink is completely full. This hot water will work to break down whatever is clogging your sink and may successfully be able to break it down enough to allow water through. This step may often need to be followed by another more powerful drain cleaning method, but is a great place to start.
Baking Soda And Vinegar
One safe, yet effective cleaning combination for your drains is baking soda and vinegar. You will start off by pouring baking soda down your drain, you will then follow this immediately with an equal portion of vinegar. Let the solution sit in your drain for an hour or so and then rinse it down. The baking soda will be activated by the vinegar and will work to eat away the build up that is clogging your drain. However, unlike some store bought drain cleaners, the baking soda is not going to weaken your pipes.
Drain Snake
If you have a large clog in your drain that you just can't seem to get out, then purchasing a drain snake is a good idea. These can be found at your local hardware store and consist of a handle and a long metal coil that resembles a snake. You use the snake by placing the coil as far down the drain as possible and then twisting and pulling it back out. The coil is very effective at grabbing and removing large clogs inside, such as hair, food, toothpaste build-up, grease, etc.
If cleaning your drain on your own isn't working, then calling a professional is the next step. To get the help you need, visit us today at A R Engh Heating & Air Conditioning.
- A R Engh Team