Dos & Don'ts When Cleaning Your Drains
Clogged and slow drains can be a massive headache, and any water that's backed up can create a huge mess. All of your drains need to be able to move waste material and water through the system easily, but when there's a clog, this can lead to a bigger issue.
No one wants to have to call a plumber due to a ruptured pipe or overflowing toilet all because of an unresolved issue with a small clog. So, save yourself the expense, embarrassment, and hassle by cleaning your drains the right way from the start.
Of course, if you ever do need an expert plumber in Liberty Hill, TX to inspect your drains and pipes, our experienced team can provide you with a camera scope inspection and full-service cleaning to keep your plumbing system fully operational!
Drain Cleaning Dos
Knowing steps to use and avoid will keep your drains flowing easily, so let's look at the most common dos and don'ts when it comes to cleaning your drains.
Do Use the Proper Plunger
Clogs can be challenging to dislodge, and while your first reaction might be to grab a plunger, you want to make sure that it's right for your drain.
There are two types on the market: cup design works better on flatter surfaces like tubs and sinks because it creates a vacuum over the drain that can dislodge the clog.
The flange plunger is the second option and works better for toilet drains because it comes with an extension at the end, making it easier to use.
Do Use Hot Water and Detergent
If the plunger's not working, combine degreasing dish detergent and hot water. With a stopper in place, simply fill up your bathtub or sink, then remove the plug and let the mixture do the work of breaking down the buildup.
Do Use Proper Snaking Methods
A drain snake has a corkscrew end attached to a long, flexible wire. The snake can help get into soft clogs and remove them; however, depending on the severity of the clog, they can pose a risk of damage to the plumbing, so it is not recommended to use them without proper instruction.
Draining Cleaning Methods to Avoid
Doing all the steps above can help you get your drain unclogged, but there are two critical things to remember for the best outcome:
Don't Use Abrasive Cleaners
There are many different chemical products made for drain cleaning, and in most cases, they will do more harm than good. They not only cause corrosion on the piping but can affect your septic system because they interrupt the natural bacterial breakdown process.
There’s a good chance that regular use of chemical cleaners will degrade your pipes and force you to have perform patching or whole pipe replacements much sooner than normal.
Additionally, the toxins in these cleaners will pollute wildlife habits and water sources. If you feel you must use a liquid-based solution, choose one with all-natural enzymes because they break down the bacteria and organic material without harsh chemicals.
Don't Put Off Calling a Professional
A backed-up system can lead to more than just an annoyance; it can affect all the plumbing in your home. As pressure builds, this puts stress on the system and increases the risk of leaks.
If you cannot resolve or restore the drainage, or if you're finding water backing up or not flowing, there may be a larger problem at hand, and you will need to reach out to a plumbing professional for any removals or repairs.
When You Need Expert Plumbing Services, Central Texas Plumbing Has You Covered
Whether you're dealing with a small or large clog, these tips can help you get started, but if you are facing an especially difficult situation, the Central Texas Plumbing pros are here to help. Our expertise spans from toilet repair to commercial Services, and our master plumbers have been in the business for over 30 years.
If you have any questions or need emergency services, call us at 512-948-9052 or message us online, and our team will get back to you shortly.