A slow-draining sink in your home is a nuisance and a major inconvenience. However, different sinks tend to accumulate various clogs. Shower drains often collect hair, debris, and soap scum, while kitchen drains have a problem with food particles, grease, and oils. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we leverage extensive expertise and specialized equipment to effectively address different clogs, restoring functionality to your home. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, our plumbing service team recommends the following DIY techniques to provide relief.
When you pour greasy liquids down your kitchen drains, they solidify in the pipes when temperatures cool and obstruct water flow. While the impact may not be instant, grease can form a layer inside your pipes that thickens over time, completely clogging your kitchen sink. If you notice a slow-flowing drain, don’t rush to buy chemical cleaners. Pour half a cup of baking soda and an equal amount of vinegar, and let the mixture settle for half an hour. Then, pour a pot of hot water to melt the grease and remove the clog.
If the problem persists despite pouring hot water, take a more hands-on approach. Clear any standing water in the sink and place the plunger over the drain to create a seal. Run water until the cup is partially covered, ensuring air doesn’t escape. Pump the clogged drain at intervals to effectively push the clog into the sewer line. Note that plunging can be messy, especially in the case of wastewater backup, so call a plumber in Ohio Valley to help if you prefer a more hands-off approach.
With everything that goes down your kitchen drains, it is no surprise when you find solid particles lodged in the curved pipe beneath your kitchen sink. Also known as the P-trap, this curved section helps keep foul smells from infiltrating your home and causing discomfort. Place a bucket and towels on the floor to trap wastewater and avoid a mess. If you notice solid particles coming out, rinse the pipe thoroughly before reconnecting it to prevent recurrences.
The most common clogged drain cleaning method for homeowners is snaking. This DIY technique involves inserting a flexible cable with an auger at the tip down the affected drain and manually cranking the tool to break through or pull out the clog. If you don’t have access to a drain snake, you can purchase one at the local hardware store and follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use.
While the primary function of enzymes is to reduce the amount of organic waste in septic tanks, these enzymes can also eat organic matter in your kitchen drain lines. Manufacturers have designed enzymes for all types of plumbing needs, including clogged drain cleaning. While enzymes may not be as effective at immediately clearing existing clogs, regular use can keep pipes flowing smoothly year-round. This goes a long way to avoid clogs from forming in the first place.
If you implement these DIY techniques and the problem continues, it might be time to hire a professional plumber. Unlike untrained individuals, licensed technicians leverage extensive expertise and knowledge to identify signs of deterioration, assess the extent of damage, and recommend effective solutions to restore functionality for years to come. In addition, professionals can devise a tailored care plan that includes regular inspections, ensuring minor signs of damage don’t worsen into major problems.
Contact us at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to book a consultation with our experts and access exceptional clogged drain cleaning services without breaking the bank. We also offer advice to help you make informed decisions and avoid devastating scenarios.