We all get clogged drains now and then, and the easiest way to unclog a drain is to call a plumber. However, that isn’t the most convenient—you have to wait for someone to come, after all—and it isn’t the cheapest. No matter how little you pay, not having a clogged drain is cheaper than getting one unclogged. So, since you’ve asked, we’ll help you avoid having to give us a call. Then if you do, you’ll know you’ve tried everything else first.
First, the best way to unclog a drain is to not get one clogged in
the first place. So step one is to not put potato peelings, carrot peelings, or
egg shells down your garbage disposal. Step two: use a strainer in every drain
to catch hair (showers, tubs, and bathroom sinks, in particular) or other
debris that might get washed down. And step three is to not wash grease and
other sludgy substances down drains. Not only will your pipes thank you, but
your city sewage system will as well.
Then, if you do get a drain clog, try some at-home remedies first.
One caution: handyman’s chemicals that you can buy in a store are bad for your
pipes. Don’t go to that solution. Go to
a plumber’s helper. There are a lot of varieties out there, and everyone has a
favorite. Find the design that works for
you.
Baking soda, hot water, and vinegar are also a tried-and-true
solution that works for many drains and isn’t a bad idea for regular
maintenance. Run at least a gallon of
very hot water down the drain, follow it with a half cup of baking soda and a
cup of vinegar, then cap the drain quickly so the mini-explosion goes down, and
voila! You will likely have a clean drain. Do it regularly and the baking soda
will take care of odors as well.
If all that fails, call us.