Plumbing is one of the most essential services in modern societies. It ensures that we have access to clean drinking water and that waste is effectively removed from our buildings.
Plumbers install and repair pipes, fixtures, and appliances. They also read blueprints and consult with other construction professionals to integrate plumbing into building projects. Visit https://www.plumbing-express.com/ to learn more.
Clogged drains happen when something that shouldn’t go down the pipes gets into them and blocks water flow. Thankfully, you can take a few preventive measures to help keep your drains clean and functioning properly.
Soap Scum: Over time, soap scum can build up inside drain pipes and stick to pipe walls, preventing the free movement of water. This is the leading cause of clogged showers, tubs and sinks. If left untreated, it can lead to complete blockages.
Food Particles: Even small amounts of cooked vegetables, meat, eggs, fish, cheese and other foods can cause a kitchen drain clog. These foods can liquefy or combine with grease to create a gummy substance that traps other items and restricts flow.
Using a garbage disposal regularly helps minimize this problem. You should also be careful to dispose of grease and oil properly by allowing it to cool, then scraping it into a disposable container for proper disposal.
Hair Hassles: A surprising number of clogged bathroom drains are caused by stringy materials like hair, cotton swabs and dental floss that get into the pipe and knot up or entangle with other substances in the pipe. This can lead to serious plumbing problems that require professional assistance.
Other Causes of Clogs: Grease and oil: If poured down kitchen drains, these substances can solidify and stick to pipe walls, restricting water flow. This is especially common with older homes that may have a lot of oil and grease built up in the pipes. Tree Roots: Outdoor drains and sewer lines can become blocked when roots infiltrate them, leading to a blockage that requires professional services to resolve.
Most minor clogs can be easily fixed with a plunger or by pouring a drain-opening product down the pipe. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and safety, and consider calling a plumber if you have concerns or can’t dislodge your clog with these methods. If the clog is severe, it may be necessary to hire a plumbing contractor for professional services. They can use specialized tools to get into and remove hard-to-reach clogs without damaging your pipes.
Clogged Toilets
Clogged toilets are a real nuisance and often one of the most unpleasant experiences that a homeowner can have. The good news is that, with most clogs, there are a number of simple ways that homeowners can try to clear the blockage. If these basic methods don’t work, it’s usually time to call a professional plumber to avoid serious damage.
The most common cause of clogged toilets is organic waste, such as poop and paper. These clogs will generally soften over time and eventually pass through the pipes. However, clogs that are composed of items like toys and personal belongings can be much more difficult to break up or clear.
One of the most effective ways to clear a toilet clog is to pour baking soda and vinegar into the drain. Use at least half a cup of each, and be careful not to splash the mixture into your eyes or face. The reaction between the base and acid in the mixture will create a significant amount of fizz that can help to clear the clog.
Another simple way to clear a toilet clog is by flushing hot water down the drain. This is especially helpful if the clog is caused by a rag or other object that can be easily dissolved by hot water. It’s also important to note that hot water will only work for a short period of time. This is because the hot water will quickly drain down the toilet and out of the drain, clearing the clog only briefly.
For more severe clogs, you can also try using a wet/dry vacuum. This is a great tool to have on hand, and it can be relatively inexpensive to purchase. You can also rent a drain snake from most hardware stores. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when using this tool, and remember that it’s always best to contact a professional plumber for more serious or complex clogs. They have the tools and expertise necessary to tackle these problems safely and effectively. In addition, a plumber will be able to recommend specific ways that homeowners can prevent future clogs. These recommendations may include reducing the amount of toilet paper used in the home, avoiding flushing materials that should not be flushed (such as baby wipes and feminine hygiene products) and ensuring that all drains in the home are working properly.
Clogged Sinks
Clogged sinks are a common plumbing problem that usually occurs in kitchens and bathrooms. Thankfully, there are many ways to clean a clogged drain or sink without calling a plumber. These methods range from basic tools you can find at any hardware store to homemade cleaning solutions. Keep in mind, however, that if a clog remains persistent even after trying these methods, it may be time to call a plumber.
Most clogs in sinks are caused by hair, grease, and soap residue that build up over time. Pouring boiling water down a sink can help dissolve this build-up and clear the drain. Use caution when pouring boiling water down a drain because it can damage the pipes if the temperature is too high. Homeowners should also avoid using steel wool or other metal objects down a drain, as these can scratch and erode the interior of the pipe.
Occasionally, a sink can become clogged with foreign objects that get stuck in the drain. To prevent this, homeowners should use a screen or drain cover to catch foreign debris and regularly clean out the trap of a sink. They should also keep toys and other small objects away from sinks to prevent them from falling in the drain and becoming a clog. If a clog is caused by a foreign object, it is best to contact a professional plumber for removal.
Some clogs occur because of natural materials, such as dirt or minerals, that build up over time. These clogs can be difficult to clear because they often happen in the deeper parts of a drain. Fortunately, many of these clogs can be remedied with the use of a snake or auger. A snake or auger is a long, coiled tool with hooks along the sides that latch onto and break up blockages in a pipe. If you don’t have a snake, a wire coat hanger will work just as well.
Occasionally, a clog will arise from something as simple as the garbage disposal. In this case, homeowners can run the disposer in short bursts to clear the clog and prevent it from spreading.
Clogged Showers
If you’ve ever had a slow draining shower, you know the frustration it causes. It might seem like a minor inconvenience at first, but persistent shower clogs can lead to leaks, foul smells, and even burst pipes if not addressed right away.
One of the most common causes of a slow shower drain is hair, which can quickly accumulate and bind to other debris to form a solid clog. Other culprits include a combination of soap residue and skin flakes that can coat the walls of the pipes, making it difficult for water to flow through. Luckily, there are some easy DIY unclogging tricks you can try before resorting to chemical drain cleaners.
Start by removing the drain cover and covering the overflow opening with a wet towel to block the exit and force all your attention on the clog. Next, mix a solution of baking soda and white vinegar. Pour the mixture into the clogged drain, and allow it to sit for about 30 minutes. The fizzing action of the solution can help dissolve the clog. Once the clog is gone, flush the drain with hot water to clear out any remaining residue.
Another simple way to keep your shower drain clear is to place a hair catcher or drain cover over the opening, which will catch much of the gunk before it can even reach the drain. And don’t forget to clean the catcher regularly! If these methods don’t work, it might be time to try a drain snake or plumbing auger. These devices can break up a lot of stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes in the process.
While do-it-yourself solutions are often effective for small clogs, it’s always best to contact a professional plumber if you’re experiencing recurring problems. They have advanced tools and techniques that can tackle a wider range of clogs than you might think possible, and they’ll also be able to determine the underlying cause of your problem to ensure a long-lasting fix.