Drain clogs can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they occur in bathrooms or kitchens. Unfortunately, many homeowners decide to take the matter into their own hands, even if they have minimal experience handling plumbing issues. However, making mistakes when handling this task could lead to significant system damage and the need for costly repairs. 

When you are dealing with a clogged drain, here are three things you shouldn’t do and why:

• Piling on the Chemicals: Although your first instinct might be to run to the store and buy some clog-busting chemicals, using too much of that trusty drain cleaner might only lead to a caustic work environment for plumbers later on. Depending on the nature of your drain clog, the cleaners might be completely ineffective. Additionally, they could soften and permanently damage certain kinds of pipes.
• Making Your Own Hydrojetter: Because professional plumbers use devices called hydrojetters to blast through clogs with water, some people try to snake garden hoses down the drain to clear clogs. Unfortunately, normal water hoses don’t typically have the kind of water pressure needed to clear clogs, and you could end up flooding your bathroom instead. Also, if you have used a drain cleaner previously, trying to clear a clog with a garden hose could cause caustic chemicals to spray back at you.
• Using Too Much Force: Another mistake amateurs tend to make is using too much force when they try to clear the clog manually. Devices like drain snakes, bent wire hangers, or even plungers can damage plumbing fixtures if they aren’t used gently. Whenever you insert anything into the drain, use light pressure. Additionally, never use sharp objects in drains, as things like knives and metal skewers can scratch or puncture pipes.

To avoid issues when you are dealing with drain clogs, call American Rooter Sewer & Septic Service in Albany, OR. In addition to helping customers throughout the greater Linn County area with everything from plumbing installations to drain cleanings, this team of experienced plumbers also offers fast service, low rates, and reliable results. For more information about how they can help you, visit them online or call (541) 926-1185.