How Not To Remove A Clog From Your Drain
When it comes to drain cleaning, there is a right and a wrong way to go about the process. Although drain cleaning isn't exactly rocket science, there are several important practices homeowners must avoid if they don't want to make a costly mistake. Learn just some of the things you should not do if your drains are clogged.
Use Drain Snakes
Whatever you do, make certain you don't use a drain snake. There is often a bit of confusion as it pertains to this tool because many professional plumbers use them. However, the key phrase is — professional. Plumbers understand what drains can support a snake and at what depth, this is typically knowledge the average homeowner does not have.
If you don't know how to use this tool, it's easy to push the obstruction blocking the drain further down, which will only make matters worse. Rather than damage your drain, fail to remove the clog and end up with a high repair bill, don't use a drain snake.
Apply Harsh Chemicals
If you take a stroll down any aisle in a local grocery or home improvement store, you're likely to find a large selection of drain solutions that claim to be the equivalent of a plumber in a bottle. Make sure you don't believe everything you read.
In some instances, these solutions will clear the clog, but will also cause costly damage along the way. The harsh chemicals found in these solutions can cause your pipes to deteriorate. In this state, a pipe leak is pretty much guaranteed to follow; this is especially the case if you have older pipes.
Don't Use a Hanger
It would seem that people who heed to the advice about not using a drain snake would quickly surmise that it's not safe to put anything down the drain, but unfortunately, this is not always the case. Even if your neighbor told you it worked for them, don't place a hanger down the drain to clear a clog.
The hanger, like the snake, can push the obstruction further down the pipe. However, it can also scratch the pipe or even worse, get stuck. The only thing you should ever put down your drain is water.
As a general rule, when you've applied a safe drain cleaning practice, and your efforts are coming up short, it's time to reach out to a professional. A plumber can diagnose the problem, and quickly apply a safe method to remove the clog and get your drains operating back normally. Contact a company like Roto Rooter Plumbing & Sewer-Drain Service for more information and assistance.