Drains are used in so many places in your home, and over such a long period of time, things can build up to create problems. For example, if you have a kitchen sink with a garbage disposal installed, food scraps, soap scum, and all kinds of other debris can clog it up over time. In bathrooms, sinks can become clogged with hair and bath oils if you don’t clean out the drain often enough. This can lead to expensive repairs if left untreated. The good news is that many drains can be unclogged through simple measures, and with the right tools and techniques, it won’t take long!
KNOWING WHAT TO LOOK FOR
When it comes to cleaning out a clogged drain, knowing what you’re looking for is the first step. The best way to do this is to get down on your hands and knees to inspect the pipes. Look for build-ups of hair, food scraps, and other debris that could have caused the clog in the first place. If your house has an in-floor or in-ceiling toilet, you’ll want to look for other signs of problems like bad smells or water that’s discolored. If you find something that could be causing the problem, refer to the instructions that came with your cleaning products to learn how best to tackle it.
START WITH A VINEGAR SOLUTION
If you find a build-up inside the drains of your home, the first thing to try is a vinegar solution. This is a very effective way to break down bacteria and organic matter that can cause build-ups. To create a vinegar solution, mix a cup of vinegar with a gallon of warm water. Dump this solution down the drain and allow it to run for 30 minutes. You can also try mixing baking soda and water to create a similar solution.
USE A SNAKE TO UNCLOG DRAINS
If you’re dealing with a really stubborn build-up, a snake will be a very effective way to unclog drains. Most home improvement stores and plumbing supply stores sell various models of these. The first thing you’ll want to do is turn off the water supply to the clogged drains so that any cleaning product you use won’t be washed away. Then, you’ll use a snake to break down the build-up. Follow the instructions that came with your cleaning product to get the most out of your cleaning session.
USE A PLUNGER OR A BUCKET/ROPE COMBO
If you’re dealing with a very minor build-up inside a sink or toilet, you may be able to break it down with a simple plunger or bucket and rope. You can also try using a toilet snake like you would with a clogged sink. Just remember to turn off the water supply first!
CONCLUSION
Drains are a crucial part of a home, and they need to be kept clean and free of clogs. If you regularly use a kitchen sink or a bathroom sink, an easy way to prevent clogged drains is to make sure that you clean out the pipes regularly. These simple measures will help ensure that your drains stay clear and clean so that they don’t cause any problems.