As a homeowner, you are sure to do your best to live within a set budget. And when something unexpected pops up, like a clogged drain, you try handling the problem on your own rather than calling in a plumber. However, it can be frustrating and costly when you don’t know which drain cleaning processes or clog removers are safe for your home. So below, you will find some safe alternatives to the chemical drain cleaners that are toxic and hazardous to your drain lines.
The Classic Home Remedy For Clogged Drains
If you remember making a volcano in elementary school science class, you are sure to recall the amazing bubbles when you mixed the vinegar and baking soda. That same bubbling action is the perfect way to remove drain clogs and foul odors. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the bubbles do their thing for a few minutes and then follow with a pot of very hot but not boiling water.
This process can be repeated as needed to remove a more significant clog. Also, using this cleaning process weekly will prevent future clogs and odor issues.
Everyone Needs A Plunger, Or Two
A plunger is a perfect way to dislodge clogs near a plumbing fixture. But you need to have the right plunger for the job. The large flanged plunger is specifically designed to fit inside a toilet and seal over the drain. But it is not really useful for a sink or tub clog.
Instead, a flat plunger is needed to remove clogs from sinks, tubs, and showers effectively. Make sure that the plunger is large enough to cover the entire drain and create a tight seal. For tough clogs, you can use the baking soda and vinegar process first, then plunge before flushing with hot water.
Time To Snake That Drain
You can purchase a drain snake at the hardware or big box store of your choice. These tools auger into a clog and allow you to pull it out of the drain. Follow the instructions carefully on the unit you purchase to avoid damaging your home’s drain lines.
The Truth About Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners need to create heat to loosen and eat away at a drain clog. The problem is that these chemicals are not smart enough to know the difference between the clog and the drain pipe. So you could be damaging or destroying the drains in your home. In addition, these products contain caustic acids that create horrific chemical fumes. Breathing the fumes can result in severe throat and lung irritation.
A Safer Solution
Bio drain cleaners add bacteria to the drain to dissolve organic material like hair, food, and soap scum. It works much like the bacteria that are placed in a septic tank to consume the solid waste. And because your drain lines are not made from organic material, there is no potential for harm to them.
These cleaners can take much longer to dissolve a clog, but they are great to use at the first sign of a slow cleaning or for regular drain cleaning maintenance.
When you find that your drain clog is too tough for these DIY drain-safe solutions, call (540) 507-2904. A licensed plumber from Assure Plumbing & Septic will arrive at your home ready to blast away any clog with nothing but pure water. In addition, the water jet scrubs away all the residue that could form future clogs. And because it is nothing but water, it is safe for your drains and leaves no chemical fumes in your home.