Clogged drains are one of the most common and frustrating household problems. Whether your kitchen sink drains slowly or your bathroom drain blocks, you may feel overwhelmed. This is especially true if you don’t know where to start. Don’t worry, though! We’re here to share some expert tips for DIY drain cleaning that are safe, effective, and chemical-free.
Drain Cleaning Advice From The Experts
Brandon Brown
Drain Cleaning DIY?
Clogged drains are one of the most common and frustrating household problems. Whether your kitchen sink drains slowly or your bathroom drain blocks, you may feel overwhelmed. This is especially true if you don’t know where to start.
Don’t worry, though! We’re here to share some expert tips for DIY drain cleaning that are safe, effective, and chemical-free.
Let’s dive into some easy-to-follow steps you can try before calling in the professionals. And remember, when it’s an emergency drain cleaning situation, don’t hesitate to contact your trusted Tulsa plumber.
Common Causes of Clogs?
Understanding what’s causing your clogged drain is the first step to solving the problem. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Hair and Pet Hair: Hair, including fur from pets, is one of the top causes of bathroom clogs. Over time, it tangles with soap residue and forms stubborn blockages.
Grease and Food Waste: In the kitchen, grease and leftover food scraps can stick to the walls of your pipes, leading to slow drainage or full-on clogs.
Soap Scum: Soaps often contain fats and oils, which can mix with minerals in water to form deposits inside your pipes.
Foreign Objects: Items like baby wipes, feminine products, or even too much toilet paper can easily clog your drains.
Being mindful of what goes down your drains can help you avoid clogs in the first place. But if you’re already facing a blockage, it’s time to take action.
Avoid Chemicals
You might feel tempted to grab a bottle of chemical drain cleaner, but we strongly advise you not to do so. Here’s why:
Damage to Pipes: Chemical cleaners can erode your pipes over time, leading to leaks or expensive repairs.
Health Risks: The fumes from these cleaners can irritate your eyes, skin, and lungs. Plus, mixing different chemicals can create dangerous reactions.
Environmental Impact: These harsh chemicals can harm the environment when they enter the water supply.
Instead, try these safer alternatives:
Plunger: A good old plunger can work wonders on minor clogs. Just make sure to create a seal around the drain and use firm, steady motions.
Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for an hour, then flush with boiling water.
Drain Snake: A simple tool you can pick up at a hardware store, a drain snake can break up clogs and pull out debris like hair or food particles.
Professional Methods?
If DIY methods don’t work or the clog keeps coming back, it’s time to call in a professional. Here are some tools and techniques a Tulsa plumber might use:
Drain Augers: Also known as plumber snakes, these motorized tools can break through tough blockages deep in your pipes.
Hydro-Jetting: This method uses high-pressure water to clear clogs and clean the inside of your pipes thoroughly.
Video Inspection: A small camera on a flexible cable helps plumbers find the location and cause of the clog. This ensures they can provide a targeted solution.
Professional drain cleaning removes blockages and helps prevent future issues. It does this by thoroughly cleaning your pipes. Plus, it’s a safer option if you’re dealing with severe clogs or damaged pipes.
Commonly Asked Questions
What services does Spot On Plumbing offer?
Spot On Plumbing offers many plumbing services. These include drain cleaning, water heater repair and installation, leak detection, and slab leak repairs. We’re proud to serve Broken Arrow, Tulsa, and the surrounding areas.
Do you offer emergency drain cleaning?
Yes! We understand that plumbing issues don’t always happen during regular business hours. That’s why we offer emergency drain cleaning services to help you when you need it most.
Why should I choose Spot On Plumbing?
We’re a locally owned and operated company with a strong reputation for reliable service and honest pricing. Plus, we’re "Your Dog’s Favorite Plumber," which means we value your whole family—including your pets!
Are your methods safe for pets?
Absolutely. We prioritize using pet-friendly and eco-friendly methods whenever possible. If you have concerns, just let us know, and we’ll tailor our approach to keep your furry friends safe.
How often should I schedule professional drain cleaning?
We recommend scheduling professional drain cleaning at least once a year to keep your plumbing system in top shape. Regular maintenance can help prevent clogs and extend the life of your pipes.
Do you service both residential and commercial properties?
Yes, we provide plumbing services for both residential and commercial customers in Tulsa, Broken Arrow, and the surrounding areas.
Final Thoughts
Clogged drains are not enjoyable. However, you can handle small issues yourself. For tougher problems, it’s best to call a professional.
Remember to avoid chemical cleaners. Try safe DIY methods instead. Don’t hesitate to contact a trusted Tulsa plumber like Spot On Plumbing when you need expert help.
For reliable and pet-friendly plumbing services, including emergency drain cleaning, contact Spot On Plumbing today. We’re here to keep your home’s plumbing flowing smoothly—and to make your dog’s tail wag with our exceptional service!