The Ultimate Guide To Drain Cleaning

Three of the Most Common Drain Cleaning Methods 

It’s never too soon to start cleaning one’s drains, even if a homeowner has never experienced any plumbing-related issues. Cleaning one’s drains is more than using Drano and calling it a day; it involves understanding some basic things about the home’s plumbing system. 

Here, homeowners can learn how to clean their homes’ drains, including the methods professionals use like drain snakes and hydrojetting. Learning about these practices only takes a few moments and can save them time, money, and stress in the long run. 

Don’t Use Over-the-Counter Clog Clearing Chemicals 

Homeowners should never use cleaning chemicals like Drano. Even though they claim to remove clogs, they can eat away at the home’s pipes. Prolonged exposure to these corrosive chemicals can increase the likelihood of burst pipes, leaks, and other issues. 

Instead, one should consider using DIY measures, like a solution of baking soda and vinegar. To remove a clog (or prevent one from happening), one should: 

• Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. 
• Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain.
• Mix a solution of vinegar and water, using one cup of each. 
• Pour the solution down the drain.
• Cover the drain. 
• Wait 10 minutes.
• Pour boiling water down the drain again. 

Homeowners should avoid using this method if they have PVC pipes because the boiling water could melt the materials and cause serious problems. One should also avoid using this method too often. If a drain constantly clogs, homeowners should call a professional to determine why. 

Use a Drain Snake 

A drain snake is a long tool for removing hard-to-reach clogs. Some drain snakes come with cameras that allow the clogs to be seen up close, while others involve a bit of skill. Ideally, when a drain snake’s coils wrap around a clog, it’ll pull it out and not bury it deeper into the system. 

When using a drain snake: 

• Avoid scraping against the side of the pipes
• Be mindful of how the drain snake recoils 
• Avoid using chemicals along with the drain snake 
• Read the user manual before using a motorized drain snake 

While plumbers’ snakes are a great tool for removing clogs, they can also be dangerous when not used properly. For this reason alone, anyone inexperienced with drain clog removal should reach out to a professional. 

Consider Hydro Jetting 

Besides using a drain snake, another drain cleaning method that professional plumbers use is hydro jetting. This is when, using a tool similar to a pressure washer, a plumber aims the water jet into the drain. This method can break apart the clog and send it deeper into the sewer main. 

A plumber may recommend this procedure if the clog is an organic material, like food or other debris. They may suggest different measures if the clog is a solid object, like a utensil or piece of glass. Hydro jetting works to both break apart clogs and help prevent them from happening in the future.

About Roman Plumbing Inc.

Roman Plumbing Inc. is a family-owned and operated business that has served New Port Richey, FL, and the surrounding areas since 2002. They provide upfront pricing, easy scheduling, and prompt service with fast turnarounds. Call them today for drain cleaning services in New Port Richey, FL.

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