A clogged drain in your West Seattle home is a minor inconvenience, but if they are left alone for too long, they can end up causing even more problems down the line. For slow running drains or for small clogs, there are a few simple tricks you can try at home to help clear them up.
Vinegar and baking soda
You’ve probably heard of this home remedy before, and there’s a reason that it is so widely shared. Vinegar and baking soda can usually be found in most homes and is a good alternative to clearing out your drains if you prefer to use natural ingredients instead of chemical drain cleaners. Start by pouring a bit of baking soda directly into your drain and then following it with a glug or two of vinegar. When combined together, baking soda and vinegar create a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. This mixture will then begin to bubble which is essential to drain clearing. The fizzy bubbles “scrub” and lift any gunk that is clinging to your drains. Once the bubbles have subsided, flush your drains with hot water to clear any leftover residue.
Pour boiling water into the drain
This method is by far the simplest, but it is not guaranteed to work, especially if the clog is substantial. Slowly and carefully pour boiling water into the drain. The temperature of the water should help clear away any oils or grease that may have built up in the drain. If the drain is still clogged, you can try adding a few drops of dish soap or detergent to increase the effectiveness of this technique.
Pull out the clog
Hair is often the culprit of most bathroom sink clogs. Sometimes the best way to clear out a clogged drain is by manually pulling out the hair. You can find specially made tools that are designed to grab and remove hair clogs without damaging the drain or pipe in stores or online. If the clog is too big however, you may not be able to clear the drain without professional help.
If you’ve tried any or all of these simple techniques on your own, and are still not able to get your drain running smooth and clear, then it’s time to call in reinforcements! Trusted Plumbing & Heating are excellent plumbers who provide drain cleaning services to West Seattle and the greater King County area. The next time you have a clogged drain that just won’t quit, call Trusted Plumbing & Heating to get the job done!