Tag: drain

How To Get Rid of a Blocked Drain

The drains in a home are responsible for carrying away wastewater, but they are also often tasked with carrying away dirt and debris. Drain pipes are wider than water supply lines to allow for the extra waste; even so, drain pipes can occasionally become blocked. A clog can form with hair, soap residue, solid waste, food waste, dried grease, lint and more. 

When a clog happens, water stops draining down and pools in your sink, tub or toilet. There are a few methods that can clear the blocked drain. A few of the more common methods are snaking, hydro-jetting and a homemade baking soda and vinegar solution.

Snaking a Blocked Drain

A plumbing snake is a long, flexible metal cable with an auger or uncoiled spring at the end. The snake is sent down into the drainpipe to dislodge a clog. 

While simple on paper, this method can be frustrating. Homeowners will have to master the technique of dislodging the clog with the flexible auger. If the clog is hard to locate, the snakes available at home improvement stores may not be long enough. Finally, without knowledge of the pipe network that makes up a home's plumbing system, it's easy to accidentally break or knock loose a fitting, causing a leak.

This is why homeowners need a professional plumber to snake the drain. While homeowners typically choose a manual snake of about 50 feet, professional plumbers usually use a very long, powerful, motorized snake. Their snake can reach farther and dislodge the clog quicker, saving valuable time and effort.

Hydro-Jetting a Blocked Drain

Hydro-jetting employs a powerful jet of water to clear blocked drains. The hydro-jet is a gas-powered machine that shoots water through a long flexible hose and out a highly pressurized nozzle. The nozzle often rotates, cutting through dirt and debris for a 360-degree clean.

Hydro-jetting services are recommended for high-buildup blockages like kitchen grease and tough clogs like those caused by tree roots. With hydro-jetting services, that clogged drain pipe will be good as new. But accidents can happen, so it's best to leave it in the hands of a professional.

Using Baking Soda & Vinegar To Open a Drain

Instead of using harsh chemicals, many homeowners love to use a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar to unclog a blocked drain. The two are popular household cleaners, as they are safe for human contact and are better for the environment. When mixed, the foaming acidic cleaner can dissolve buildup and blockages in a drain. However, this solution is not always as effective as store-bought chemicals, and it only temporarily opens the drain. It does not completely remove the blockage, and the drain will soon become clogged again.

It's best to call a professional plumber to help get rid of a blocked drain for the best results. They will be able to find the clog, diagnose what's causing it and recommend a course of action to get the drains open and flowing again.

Get Expert Clog Removal From a Local Plumber

Apple Valley Plumbing Company has been serving the community of Apple Valley, MN for over 17 years. With decades of experience and up-to-date training, their technicians are the experts at drain cleaning. Prompt, respectful service, quality craftsmanship and a 100% satisfaction guarantee are all part of Apple Valley Plumbing's commitment to customer service.

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