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What to Do When You Have a Clogged Drain
Whether it’s an overflowing toilet or a sluggish sink, a clogged drain can really slow down your drain. A clogged drain is, unfortunately, something that just about everyone will have to deal with at one time or another. The good news, though, is that there are ways to deal with clogs on your own. Read on to learn what you can do the next time you’re facing a clogged drain.
DIY Drain Cleaning
First and foremost, using a chemical drain cleaner usually isn’t your best bet. These products frequently don’t work, and they contain extremely dangerous chemicals. When they make contact with the skin or are ingested or inhaled, they can cause serious damage. They’re not good for your home’s plumbing either.
For simple clogs, try pouring white vinegar and baking soda down the drain. This causes a fizzing reaction that often works to break down minor clogs. Let the baking soda and vinegar sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
A bent wire hanger works well to remove hair and other gunk from drains. Simply straighten the hanger as much as you can, then bend one end over to create a small hook. Insert the hanger in the drain, and use it to fish out the clog.
For more stubborn clogs, you can try using a plunger or drain snake, but be advised that these tools can be messy if you aren’t familiar with how to use them. If you’re using a plunger, choose one that is suited for the type of clog you’re dealing with. There are plungers designed for use on toilets and other plungers that are designed for use in sinks. Using the appropriate one greatly improves your chances of success.
When Do-it-Yourself Techniques Fail
Not all clogs can be removed without the help of a professional. If you’ve tried these techniques and haven’t had any success, or if you have any reason to suspect that you may be dealing with a clog further down the line, you need a professional plumber to get the job done.
For drain cleaning in Salt Lake City, trust the experts at Neerings Plumbing & Heating. We perform camera inspections to ensure that your pipes are completely free of clogs and debris, and our drain cleaning techniques are extremely effective.
If you’re in need of professional drain cleaning in the Salt Lake City area, please call 801-467-3951.
