Clogged drains are a common problem in homes across the country. It's estimated that slow drains cost homeowners millions of dollars every year in wasted water. If your drains seem to be taking forever to clear, here are five tips to help you clear the pipes and get your water flowing like normal again.
Check for blockages
The first step is to check for any obvious blockages in your drains. This could be anything from hair and soap scum to food waste and grease. If you see anything blocking the water flow, try to remove it with a plunger or plumber's snake.
Run Hot Water Down the Drain
If there isn't any obvious blockage in your drains, try pouring hot water down the drain. The hot water can help break up grease or soap scum that may be causing the clog. If you have a double sink, start in one sink and then move on to the other. Pour the hot water into each sink slowly so that it has a chance to work its way down the drain.
Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner
If hot water doesn't seem to be doing the trick, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner. These products are found at most hardware stores and can help break up even the toughest clogs.
Ensure to follow the instructions on the product label carefully, as some cleaners can be corrosive and damage your pipes if used incorrectly. If you're not comfortable using a chemical drain cleaner, try a more natural method.
Use a Vinegar and Baking Soda Mixture
If you're looking for a more natural way to clean your drains, try mixing vinegar and baking soda. This combination can help to break up clogs without damaging your pipes. To use this method, mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda and pour the mixture down the drain. Let the mixture sit before running hot water down the drain.
Call a Professional Plumber
If you can't remove the blockage yourself, or if your drains are still draining slowly after you've removed the blockage, call a local plumber like Rakeman Plumbing and Rakeman Air for professional help. A plumber can use various tools to clear your drains and get them flowing freely.
Don't wait until drains are completely clogged before calling a plumber. If you realize your drains are starting to drain more slowly than usual, try these tips to clear the pipes before the problem worsens.
