Clogged Drain Clearing Tips

Clogged drains are a pain. Aside from slow-draining water that can be a nuisance to your daily routine, a clogged drain can also lead to nasty smells, and may indicate more serious problems in your plumbing system.

If you suspect you have a clogged drain, act quickly to have it resolved by a professional plumber. Here are some tips on how to identify clogged drains, and what you can do to solve and prevent them.

Is My Drain Clogged?

If you are experiencing any of the following issues, your drains are probably blocked:

• Water drains very slowly from kitchen or bathroom sinks.
• Dirty water starts to back up out of the drain.
• Water drains slowly from your shower, leaving you standing in a pool of water, or collecting near the drain.
• Drains make gurgling noises when you run water down a sink.
• Appliances that use water (washing machines or dishwashers) cause your toilets or sinks to overflow.
• You notice unpleasant smells coming from the sink.

What Can I Do if my Drain is Clogged?

If the problem is localized – for example, only a bathroom drain is acting up – then the blockage is likely limited to that particular pipe.

If multiple drains are clogging in your home, the blockage may run deeper. Your home’s plumbing is made up of a network of pipes and drains that all run to a main sewer pipe. Kitchen and bathroom drains clogging at the same time may indicate a blockage in the main line.

In both cases, never use harsh chemical drain cleaners at home. These products are incredibly dangerous; they can lead to fume inhalation which damages your throat, nose, and lungs. They can also corrode your pipes, which causes further problems that will cost you more in the long term.

Call a qualified plumber to resolve the issue – they have the expertise and tools to get the job done properly. For localized blockages, a rooter service will usually suffice. At Art Plumbing, AC and Electric, we also carry Bioclean® — a natural, biodegradable drain cleaner that is safe and environmentally friendly.

For bigger drainage problems, your plumber will carry out a pipe inspection with a fiber optic camera. Once the source of the blockage is identified, your plumbing technician can determine the best way to clear the drain. Tree roots are a common culprit, but sometimes a deteriorated sewer line will need to be repaired or replaced.

How to Prevent Clogged Drains

The simplest solution is to avoid putting large particles down the drain, even with a garbage disposal in your kitchen sink. Food debris often accumulates and swells in the trap or down the pipe; some foods are worse than others, so be vigilant.

Be prepared when you’re expecting house guests. Over-use of the plumbing system, especially over holidays or big get-togethers, can accelerate blockages. Get a plumbing inspection or maintenance visit done before your guests arrive.