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When a sink or shower drain is clogged, it can cause frustrating disruptions to your daily routine, or render the fixture unusable. There are many possible causes, including blockages, damaged pipes, or full septic tanks. By learning more about the basics of fixing clogged drains, you’ll know when you can handle the job and when to call a plumber. Get started with the following do’s and don’ts of dealing with clogs.

Do:

Try a plunger.

In the same way that you would a toilet, use a plunger on your clogged drains to try and loosen the blockage. The sink should have at least a few inches of water to maximize suction. Plunge firmly but without using too much force.

Use drain filters.

clogged drainHair and food residue are among the most common causes of drain clogs. Place rubber or metal filters in your showers, bathtubs, and kitchen sinks to catch these particles before they enter your drains and block your pipes. 

Don’t:

Add more water.

Flushing a clogged drain with more water is usually not very productive. If water was going to solve the problem, it likely already would’ve dislodged the clog. Adding water could cause an overflow onto your flooring and means you’ll have more to bail out of the sink. Shut off the water while you perform DIY repairs or wait for an emergency plumber.

Use harsh chemicals. 

Most drain cleaning products contain caustic substances like lye and potash. These chemicals can eat away at the interior of plumbing pipes, eventually causing them to spring leaks. Try natural remedies, such as baking soda and vinegar, and if they prove ineffective, call a plumber.

 

The next time you have clogged drains, get in touch with Economy Plumbing. Since 1970, they have provided plumbing repairs and installations to homes and businesses throughout High Point, NC. Reach an expert plumber anytime at 336-883-4491. Visit their website to learn more about drain cleaning and leak repairs. 

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