If your method is using chemical, store-bought drain cleaners, then the answer is, “yes.” But please, allow us to explain…
First off, we get it. One of the most frustrating plumbing problems a homeowner can deal with is a clogged or backed up drain. You might be doing something as simple as brushing your teeth and all of the sudden have an overflowing sink. Naturally, you want a quick and easy fix. Nothings is quicker and easier than that bottle of liquid drain cleaner, right?
Unfortunately, quick, or even affordable, doesn’t always mean effective.
The Problem with Store-Bought Drain Cleaning Chemicals
It seems like drain cleaning chemicals would be the easiest way to unclog your drains. But most of the time, they don’t even really work. This is because the chemicals in these store-bought “solutions” may be formulated to dissolve things like hair, but not other common blockages like mineral build up from hard water, or grease or food particles if we’re talking about a kitchen sink drain.
Liquid drain cleaner might not do anything but push the clog further down the drainpipe.
This isn’t the only reason to avoid using them though—these chemical drain cleaners are toxic and caustic. This means not only can they be harmful to your health, but also to the health of your plumbing system. They slowly but surely will eat away at the lining of your pipes until you’re dealing with corrosion or a pipe rupture.
“Can I Unclog My Own Drain without Liquid Drain Cleaner?”
In many cases, yes! Especially if it’s a superficial clog near the opening of your drain. If you have a plunger, this is a go-to for most types of clogs, particularly for the toilet and kitchen sink. Plunger help you create suction, which enables the blockage to loosen up and make its way down the drain. You’ll just need to be persistent.
“What about Cleaning My Drain?”
What if you don’t have a clog or blockage, but your drains smell bad? Well, there’s a DIY solution for that too—a little bit of baking soda and vinegar! First, you add ½ cup of baking soda to the drain. Follow that up with a cup of vinegar. You’ll likely notice bubbles, which means it’s working. Give it about 5-10 minutes before pouring boiling water down the drain.
What If You Can’t Unclog or Clean Your Own Drains?
Then it’s time to call in a pro. We have many tools at our disposal, and ensure you that we can effectively remove your clog.
- Motorized Drain Augers: Professional-grade drain augers are motorized, allowing them to reach further down in the pipes and break up tougher clogs with auger attachments like a rotating blade.
- Video Pipe Inspection: A video pipe inspection allows us to get a closer look at the clog to determine what action will be most effective.
- Hydro-Jetting: Hydro-jetting involves using a long, thin hose to blast water into the pipes and clear away clogs, in addition to any debris or greasy residue that might be sticking around.
At Admiral Plumbing Services, LLC, you can count on nice people and super service. Call our super friendly team for your plumbing in West Palm Beach, FL today!
