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How to Prevent and Fix Clogged Drains: Expert Tips for Every Homeowner

Updated: Dec 2




Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems faced by homeowners. They can disrupt daily life, cause unpleasant odors, and even lead to costly repairs. Luckily, preventing clogs and fixing minor issues doesn’t have to be complicated. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips to keep your drains flowing smoothly and what to do when you need professional help.


1. Common Causes of Clogged Drains


Understanding what causes clogs can help you avoid them. Here are the main culprits:


  • Grease and Oil: Cooking grease solidifies in pipes, creating blockages over time.

  • Hair: Hair strands easily tangle and form clumps that block drains.

  • Soap Scum: Residue from soaps and shampoos can build up in pipes.

  • Food Scraps: Leftover food particles, especially starchy or fibrous items, can clog kitchen drains.

  • Foreign Objects: Items like wipes, feminine products, and toys often lead to clogs in toilets.


2. How to Prevent Clogged Drains


Prevention is the best way to avoid the hassle of dealing with clogs. Here’s what you can do:


  • Use Drain Strainers: Install strainers in sinks and tubs to catch debris like hair and food scraps.

  • Dispose of Grease Properly: Let grease cool, then dispose of it in the trash instead of pouring it down the drain.

  • Flush with Hot Water: Run hot water down your drains weekly to clear grease and debris.

  • Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items: Only flush toilet paper—everything else belongs in the trash.


Pro Tip:Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar monthly to clean and deodorize your drains naturally.


DIY Drain Cleaning Tips: What Works and What Doesn’t


Clogged drains are a common problem that every homeowner encounters at some point. While it’s tempting to tackle the issue yourself, not all DIY methods are effective—or safe. In this blog, we’ll break down the best DIY drain cleaning techniques, what to avoid, and when it’s time to call a professional.


What Works: Safe and Effective DIY Methods


1. The Boiling Water Trick


How it Works: Pour boiling water down the drain in stages, allowing it to dissolve grease and soap scum. Best For: Minor clogs in kitchen or bathroom sinks. Why It Works: Boiling water can help break down soft debris like grease or soap buildup.


2. Baking Soda and Vinegar


How to Use:


  1. Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain.

  2. Add ½ cup of vinegar and let it fizz for 15 minutes.

  3. Rinse with hot water.


    Best For: Organic blockages in sinks or bathtubs.


    Why It Works: The chemical reaction helps break down organic materials.


3. A Plunger


How to Use:


  1. Place the plunger over the drain, creating a tight seal.

  2. Push and pull to create suction that loosens the clog.


    Best For: Clogged toilets or drains with standing water.


    Why It Works: The suction dislodges blockages and clears the pipe.


4. A Drain Snake or Auger


How to Use:


  1. Insert the snake into the drain.

  2. Turn the handle to push through and remove the clog.


    Best For: Hair or solid debris in sinks, showers, or toilets.


    Why It Works: It physically removes blockages without damaging pipes.


What Doesn’t Work: Avoid These Common Mistakes


1. Chemical Drain Cleaners


Why to Avoid:


  • Harsh chemicals can corrode pipes over time.

  • They’re harmful to the environment.

  • They may not fully resolve the issue, leading to recurring clogs.


2. Using a Wire Hanger


Why to Avoid:


  • A wire hanger can scratch or damage your pipes.

  • It’s less effective than a proper drain snake.


3. Excessive Force with a Plunger


Why to Avoid:


  • Using too much force can damage seals or fixtures.

  • It can also push the clog deeper into the pipe.


4. Ignoring the Problem


Why to Avoid:


  • A slow drain can lead to bigger issues like pipe bursts or water backups.

  • Minor clogs are easier and cheaper to fix early on.


4. When to Call a Professional


Some clogs require expert attention, especially if:


  • Water backs up in multiple drains.

  • There are gurgling noises or foul odors from pipes.

  • DIY methods don’t work after several attempts.

At Dave21 Plumbing, we use advanced techniques like high-pressure water jetting and sewer camera inspection to clear and diagnose stubborn clogs.




5. The Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning


Hiring a professional plumber can save time, money, and frustration. Here’s why:


  • Thorough Cleaning: Removes all buildup, ensuring your drains flow freely.

  • Prevents Future Issues: Experts can identify potential problems before they worsen.

  • Safe Methods: Professional-grade equipment protects your plumbing system.


Clogged drains don’t have to disrupt your life. By following these prevention tips and knowing when to call a professional, you can keep your plumbing system in excellent condition.


Schedule a professional inspection to prevent costly plumbing repairs—call us now!


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