Drain Cleaning – 5 Easy Tips You Can Use At Home

There are few things more intimidating than the dreaded chore of drain cleaning. Staring down that deep abyss, only able to guess at what lurks in the dark, and finally wondering if whatever is clogging that drain is going to require you to call the plumber … again.

Though it may look mysterious and at times down right disgusting, the most common causes of drain blockages are actually fairly simple. Some require nothing more than a quick cleaning while others will need the attention of skilled professionals. By far the most common cause of drain blockage is debris or buildup in the drain line. Likely culprits are hair, soap sludge, or garden debris. However, the list of causes doesn’t end there. Here are the top 5 most common situations causing you to stare down that drain:

  • Build up of debris.
  • Scale (chemical and/or mineral deposits) in the drain line.
  • Solidified fats, grease, or cosmetics (such as soap scum).
  • Foreign objects obstructing the line – could also include roots growing through the lines.
  • Damage to the pipe or line somewhere.

As mentioned, some of these would obviously require professional plumbers – after all, what could the average person expect to do about a root growing through a pipe?

Drain Cleaning

What are the best drain cleaning options?

Modern technology has enabled drain cleaning professionals to do some pretty fancy things. One such advancement is what they call ‘Video Inspection Services’. This is used when a blocked sewer line is suspected and/or the blockage can not be identified. Be thankful for this technology; this kind of problem used to require costly excavation of the pipes!

In addition to the more common snaking, or rooting services, many professionals now offer Hydro Jetting. This involves a steady stream of high pressure water and is efficient at cleaning out or flushing pipe lines – including build up that has accumulated. Snaking, on the other hand, is not usually quite as effective and is often used in more minor situations. In fact you can buy one yourself and perform your own drain cleaning surgery.

Professionals also offer a regular maintenance program to keep your pipes flowing like new – an obvious solution to prevent future problems.

What about DIY drain cleaning?

Not all plumbing problems will need such aid. Some do-it-yourself know how can often get you up and draining with out a problem. Sometimes simply pulling out the clump of hair and soap sludge is all you’ll need to do. A simple solution of baking soda followed by vinegar can be a more economical – and safer – way of cleaning your drain; rather than using harsh and unsafe clog dissolving chemicals.

The best way to take care of your drain cleaning problems will be to exercise caution and practice some preventive measures. Know when to use the drain or the trash.Make use of devices such as hair catchers. A quick rinse with the baking and vinegar can also prevent future build up.

So now that your armed with a little drain cleaning know how – happy plumbing!