How To Unclog a Drain

How To Unclog a Drain

Clogged drains are one of the most frequent issues experienced in the home. Just think about all of the abuse that we subject our drains to. In the bathtub, our hair, shampoo and pieces of bar soap make their way into the pipes on a daily basis. Many people put coffee grounds, egg shells and greasy foods down their sink, and children love to flush their small toys down the toilet. It's no wonder then, that occasional consequences will rear their ugly head. If you have discovered a clog, have no fear, there may be a simple solution. If these don't work, there's no need to worry - Mr. Rooter has professional plumbers available that are only a phone call away.

Locate the Source of the Clog

Sometimes, as in the case of a toilet, it can be pretty obvious where the clog is located. However, that isn't always the case. For example, in a kitchen sink, the problem might be coming from a clog in the drain pipe, but there could also be an issue with the garbage disposal. So, before you start plunging, snaking and pouring gallons of Drano down your sink, make sure you understand where the source of the problem is coming from.

Avoid Caustic Chemicals

For many people, pouring chemicals down the drain is the first reaction. It isn't recommended however. If the clog is deep down in your pipes and is extremely stubborn, the caustic chemicals might sit for a very long time. Many household chemicals contain ingredients such as lye that will heat up and cause corrosion in metal pipes. If your plumbing is primarily PVC, you could have an even bigger problem on your hands. Also, if you've poured the chemicals into your sink, and they're pooling near the surface of the drain, when you start to use a plunger or snake, there's a good chance it will splash on you. Avoid burns and other injuries by leaving the jugs of products in the cabinet, and far away from your sink, tub or toilet. Drain Cleaning in Suwanee.

Use a Plunger

The next step is to try and get the clog to release using pressure. This is done by using a plunger. It's important to use the right one, depending on where the clog is at. If you're working on a sink or tub, use a classic cup plunger. If it's a double sink, try to seal off the other drain with something like a kitchen rag to maximize the plunger's effect. For a toilet clog, you'll need to use what's called a flange plunger. Flange plungers are bell shaped and have a smaller opening located inside the bell, which helps to provide a tighter fit and stronger suction when using it in a toilet bowl.

Get a Snake or Hand Auger

If the plunger doesn't do the trick, you might need to go the extra mile and purchase a plumber snake, otherwise known as a Hand Auger. These handy devices have a long, thick metal rope made of wire that's coiled around a hand crank. When you turn the crank, the snake pushes it's way though the pipes, and if all goes well, it should push the clog out of the way. Drain Cleaning in Atlanta

Call Mr. Rooter

After trying the above techniques, if you're drain is still being stubborn, give Mr. Rooter a call. You may be experiencing a clog that is very deep in your plumbing system. It could also be an issue with the main sewer line, and tree roots or another large mass might be causing backups in your home. If this is the case, you need to get an inspection and repair the issue right away to avoid bigger problems down the road.

If your home or business needs help getting rid of a clog or if you need a drain cleaning, plumbing repair or any other plumbing service - call Mr. Rooter today and set up an appointment with one of our certified, experienced local plumbers.

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