Drains are unfortunately prone to developing clogs, and this is because everything from food waste to soap residue, grease, hair and more can amass in a pipe to create a clog. Many homeowners understandably do not want to call a plumber every time a clog develops, and there are a few home remedies you may use before you call a professional company for plumbing service. However, there are pros and cons to these do-it-yourself methods, and you may want to learn more about these methods before you decide to use them on your own.
Using a Snake
One of the first methods a plumber may use to clear away a clog in your drains is to use a snake. This is a long device that is maneuvered into the pipe, and it usually will latch onto the clog so that the clog can be pulled up and out of the pipe. Because professionals often perform this simple task, you may think about doing it on your own to save money on plumbing fees. You can purchase a snake from a local home improvement store, but bear in mind that professional snakes are typically longer and more effective. Your at-home device may only be effective at reaching pipes closer to the drain rather than those buried deeper in the pipe.
Using Home Drain Cleaning Products
Another common method used by homeowners is to pour drain cleaning products down the drain. These products can be rather expensive, but they are easy to use. You simply pour the full contents of the bottle into the affected drain, and you wait a few minutes for the product to work its magic. These products are harsh chemicals that essentially break down the debris in the pipe. While they often are effective at removing clogs, they also can be damaging to your pipes. This is particularly a concern if you use the products numerous times to clear away frequently re-occurring clogs.
Other Options Available
Using a snake is your best option for an at-home remedy for clogged drains, but you can see that this option will not work with all clogs. If you have a clog in your drain and cannot remove it on your own by snaking, consider calling a plumbing company for assistance. Through hydrojetting, you can easily clear away the clog and clean the entire length of the pipe. Because the entire pipe is cleaned through this process, you reduce the risk of developing another clog in the near future.
Many homeowners keep a close eye on spending, and because of this, it makes to attempt to remove the clog on your own first. If your efforts at snaking the pipe are not successful, it is better to call a professional than to use harsh chemical drain cleaning products. Your plumber can expertly remove the clog and clean the pipe for further benefit. Additional information and insights can be found at the ExpressRooter Plumbing website.
