The Basic Steps of Drain Cleaning

There are several benefits of chemical drain cleaners. These cleaners work by breaking down clogs. This occurs through a saponification reaction between the hydroxide ions and the triglyceride. Clogs are commonly composed of natural materials. These products contain a high concentration of sulfuric acid, which turns pH paper red. The hydroxide ions in drain cleaners break down triglyceride to their component parts.

Basics of drain cleaning

You can try the basic methods of drain cleaning to keep your pipes and drains clean. However, they require more discipline and effort to be effective. They can also cause serious damage to your pipes and drains and can cost more than necessary. For this reason, most people hire a professional drain cleaner instead. Here are some of the most important basic steps for drain cleaning:

Boiling hot water can be used to flush away accumulated buildup and unclog drains. If the drain is clogged with food, pour out the food as soon as you turn on the disposal. If the food remains, make sure you run the water while running the disposal to break up the particles that may have stuck to the pipes. Afterwards, you can use vinegar to clean the drain thoroughly. For tougher clogs, you can use a biological drain cleaner, such as Citra-Drain or Zep.

Cost of drain cleaning

While drain cleaning is usually an easy task, sometimes even a simple job will turn into a bigger job that requires more labor. This can lead to a higher cost, and you might end up with secondary problems in the process. If your drain cleaning needs are recurring, look for companies that offer discounted rates for subsequent drain problems. Likewise, it is crucial to get a detailed quote before hiring a plumber. Several homeowners ignore the warning signs of drain clogging because they don’t have time to research their plumbing problems and get them fixed.

The cost of drain cleaning will depend on the type of clog and how complicated the job is. A simple bathroom drain repair can cost around $80 to $120, while a major clog may require a much higher price. The time required to access a clogged drain will also determine the overall cost of your drain cleaning. Using a plunger to unclog a drain can solve minor clogs, but a professional drainage plumber will be able to locate the root cause and resolve more serious problems.

Common causes of clogged drains

There are many causes of clogged drains and pipes in your home. In general, clogged drains and pipes occur when waste sticks to the walls of the pipe. The first sign of a clog is a slow drain, which may become worse over time. If the drain begins to smell bad, it is likely that a clog is in progress. To avoid further problems, call a professional plumber.

Soap is another common cause of clogged drains. Soap is made up of grease and oil, which can get stuck in pipes. This creates a scum and clogs them. To avoid clogs, always dispose of soap in a trash can instead of flushing it down the drain. If you use soap to wash your hair, leave the soap on the drain for about 10 minutes before rinsing it down.

Alternatives to chemical drain cleaners

While chemical drain cleaners may be effective at breaking down clogs, they aren’t good for the environment. They can emit harmful fumes, and the chemicals can burn skin and eyes. Additionally, they damage septic systems by disrupting the balance of bacteria that break down waste. These pollutants can also contaminate groundwater. So, if you want to save money, consider using alternative drain cleaning solutions.

Another alternative is a plumbing auger. This mechanical device operates by dislodging debris that’s lodged deep within the piping. Suitable for smaller pipes, it can clear clogs up to 25 feet deep. It is not as effective for larger drains, and it can scratch the pipe’s interior. But, compared to chemical drain cleaners, it’s safer and less expensive than chemical drain cleaners.

Signs that you need to call a plumber to clean your drains

Clogged drains are frustrating and difficult to solve. They can make your water flow slowly or produce a foul smell. If you attempt to clean the drains yourself, you can actually damage the pipes and cause more damage than good. Instead, call a plumber to clean your drains and help you prevent a future plumbing emergency. Here are 10 signs that you need to call a plumber to clean your drains.

Puddles in the backyard are another sign that you need to call a plumber. Hair, soap, and other debris can build up in the drain and cause it to become clogged. While this problem can be solved by yourself, the water will eventually start to pool and can affect the foundation of your home. In any case, standing water is never a good sign and calls a plumber are necessary.