Baby, it’s cold outside! For most people, winter means warm sweaters, boots, and avoiding getting out of the shower in the morning. However, if you have a clogged drain, standing in a puddle of dirty water will probably make that comforting shower a little less comfortable. There are a few simple ways to clear a clog from any drain. With these tips, you can get back to procrastinating your morning routine in favor of five more minutes of hot water!
1) Try chemical cleaners, but use caution! Whether you choose to buy a clog-busting concoction from a store or go with a greener approach, chemical cleaners usually require little to no effort on your part to clear a clog. Simply pour down the drain, wait, and flush the drain with hot water. When using these cleaners, it is important to follow directions exactly and take special precautions before using, especially if you have a septic tank. Some cleaners are unsafe for septic tank use and may do more harm than good if used improperly. Overuse of these cleaners can also permanently damage your pipes, so if you must use them, do so sparingly.
2) For more stubborn clogs, it may be time to break out the tools. Two tools that are usually familiar are a plunger and a drain snake. A plunger can help get a clog moving through pressure, whereas the drain snake uses a mechanical coil to break up or remove the clog, especially if the clog is in a hard-to-reach area.
3) Call in the professionals. If you’ve tried unsuccessfully to clear your drain, it may be time to call a professional plumber. Someone from our team at Ace Hardware Home Services can have your drains clear and running in less time than it would take you to watch that online tutorial of how to use your new plumbing tools!
If you have any questions about a stubborn clog, don’t hesitate to call us at Ace Hardware Home Services for advice.