No one looks forward to having a clogged drain in their home, and for most homeowners, the first instinct is to immediately work to repair the problem themselves. While most clogs can be handled with the help of a plunger, some require professional attention.

At Don’s Plumbing in Canyon Lake, TX, their experienced crew can fix any clogged drain, no matter how severe. Before you call the professionals, there are a few things you should know about the do’s and don’ts of handling a clog yourself.

Do Flush Your Drains With Hot Water

Food residue, soap scum, grease, and oil all collect in your pipes. Over time, these substances can slow the flow of water through the drain. Rather than using a commercial drain cleaning product, simply pour some hot water down the drain. That should be enough to cure the clogged drain without damaging the pipes or your plumbing.

Don’t Plunge Too Hard

Clogged drains can often be fixed with a little bit of elbow grease and a plunger but using too much force behind the plunger might make the problem worse. Excessive force can weaken the integrity of the seals around the pipes, resulting in leaks and significant damage. If light plunging isn’t working, call a plumber to schedule a drain cleaning appointment.

Do Get a Little Dirty

Sink scum and clogs may be gross, but sometimes you have to be willing to get a little dirty to clear out a drain. Most blockages occur in the curved pipe beneath the sink. This pipe, known as the drain trap, can be opened so you can remove the clog by hand.

Don’t Get in Over Your Head

If plunging and hot water are not enough to get rid of the clog, or you think that the repair is too complicated for you to handle on your own, don’t hesitate to call an expert. Professional plumbers have the experience and training needed to accurately diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

If your drains are running slowly, or you’ve tried and failed to fix a clogged drain on your own, schedule an appointment with Don’s Plumbing. Visit their website to learn more about their team and call them at (830) 964-4477 to schedule an appointment.