Understanding the Causes of Clogged Pipes: Unclogging Tips for Homeowners

Clogged pipes are the silent antagonists of our peaceful lives in the house. You’re brushing your teeth, and, before you know it, you have a small-scale dam forming on the sink. Another bummer is that your shower area has turned into a wading pool. Scenes like this can cause everything in life to come to a standstill until they’re fixed. Not to worry, though; there are ways to restore normalcy in your house plumbing.

Before we get into things a homeowner can do to solve the problem, it’s important to understand why pipes clog in the first place. The experts who do plumbing repairs in Mason, OH, say the main culprit for this is the build-up of hair, grease, soap, toilet paper, and food scraps in the pipes. Over time, these particles build up and finally cause a full blockage. Now, let’s touch on the tools you can use to deal with it.

The Plunger

For mild obstructions, a plunger or a rubber cup are your best friends. It’s enough to save the day. All one has to do is position the cup of the plunger over the drain to create a tight seal, then vigorously pump the handle up and down. The pressure created by the plunging action may dislodge whatever is blocking the pipe.

The Plumber’s Snake

Also known as a toilet jack, this is the best tool for removing tough obstructions deep within the pipes. Insert the snake into the drain and crank the handle clockwise to navigate the pipe’s twists and turns. Once you’ve reached the blockage, use light pressure and move the snake back and forth. You’ll be able to dislodge even the most difficult obstruction this way.

Chemicals

Plumbing maintenance in Mason, OH, would sometimes require chemical drain cleaners. They can be useful for dissolving organic debris and eliminating minor obstructions. However, be cautious while using chemical cleaners. Wear gloves and goggles for protection.

Preventive Measures

While unclogging pipes is a fact of home life, implementing preventative measures can help reduce the chance of future obstructions. Avoid dumping grease, oil, and food scraps down the kitchen sink. Put a drain strainer in the shower area to prevent hair and debris from flowing into the drain. Finally, flush the pipes with hot water regularly, as this helps dissolve or loosen particles in there.

Professional Help

If, despite your best efforts, a blockage is simply too difficult to remove on your own, don’t hesitate to call in the cavalry. Get a professional plumber. It’s a lot safer and will surely be more efficient. An expert has the know-how and tools of the trade required to handle even the most difficult obstructions with ease.

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Got a Leak? Let’s Have a Peek.

Plumbing repairs in Mason, OH, guarantee a cure for any clog. You can take a chance on going DIY with the plunger or chemical cleaners for minor blockages. If that’s not enough, go for the plumber’s snake. This is more effective than the first two. Now, if the toilet jack still proves ineffective, call a friend.

This is where I suggest that you get a professional to do the job. Have them at it and be done with the problem. Give us a call at Joseph Home Improvement and Plumbing. Get in touch at 513-400-6401. As the most reassuring song in pop culture goes: “Don’t think twice; it’s alright.”