Clogged drains are the bane on any homeowner’s maintenance list. Clearing the drain is inconvenient and often messy. A bad clog can also cause some rather unpleasant bathroom visitors to call your house home.
Each homeowner has a list of tried and true methods to use when clearing clogged drains. However, these remedies are often based on a set of innocuous yet pervasive myths about clearing clogged drains.
So, read on to learn about five common myths about unclogging drains and why they couldn’t be further from the truth.
1. Hot Water Can Clear All Clogs
Hot water can create additional problems by melting fat or grease. This allows it to flow further down the drain, causing even more blockages.
While hot water could theoretically help clear out a minor clog, it won’t do anything for those stubborn, full blockages. It won’t dissolve any organic matter that is likely causing a major blockage and only raises the temperature of the water in the line.
2. Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Always Effective
Chemical drain cleaners can be ineffective against certain clogs such as tree root invasion, concrete, or hardened grease. Furthermore, there is a risk in using chemical drain cleaners if not applied correctly.
The caustic substance can burn skin or eyes and can damage pipes in older plumbing fixtures. Also, chemical drain cleaners can be expensive and may not always completely clear out the clog.
3. Plungers Work for All Types of Clogs
While plungers are a useful tool for clearing certain types of clogs, they may not work in all situations. Plungers are most effective at clearing clogs in toilets or sinks with an overflow drain.
They create suction and pressure that can dislodge blockages. However, plungers may not be effective for clogs located deeper in the plumbing system or for clogs caused by solid objects. In such cases, you may need to use different techniques.
4. Clogs Can Be Fixed Using Homemade Remedies
Homemade remedies like vinegar and baking soda may not get rid of most clogs. This can create a fizzy reaction that may help with minor clogs but is unlikely to clear more stubborn blockages.
Hair, food waste, grease, and soap scum buildup can create a huge blockage in your drain and homemade remedies will not be able to fix this issue. It’s best to consider these homemade remedies as preventive maintenance rather than reliable solutions for clearing clogs.
5. All Clogs Can Be Cleared Without Professional Help
While minor clogs can often be cleared using DIY methods, some clogs may require professional assistance. If you’ve tried different methods and the clog persists, it’s best to call a plumber, like Suburban Plumbing.
A licensed plumber has specialized tools and expertise to handle more complex clogs. They can ensure the problem is resolved without causing further damage to your plumbing system.
Demystifying the Truth About Clearing Clogged Drains
Problems with clogged drains can be a major inconvenience. But with the right guide, you can gain knowledge to clear these drains yourself and prevent clogs.
Follow these steps to ensure drains don’t get clogged and if they do, to know exactly how to free up those pipes. Try these tips out today and keep your drains clear for good.
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