What are safe drain cleaning methods? When should I call a Collinsville, IL plumber?

DIY Drain Cleaning Methods

As a homeowner in the Collinsville, IL, area, you know that sometimes your drains get slow or clogged and that some drain cleaning methods are better than others. When you notice a drain isn’t working quite like it used to, it may be time for a professional drain cleaning, but most people like to at least try fixing the problem themselves first. That’s fine, as long as you’re careful to do it safely and without damaging your pipes. Here are some of the best DIY methods for safe drain cleaning at home.

Plunging

When a sink or toilet backs up, the plunger is usually the first tool a homeowner reaches for. A bit of force from your trusty plunger fixes most clogs and slow drains, and more than once it’s saved a homeowner from that terrifying, gradually rising water in the bowl. In case you never thought about how a plunger works, it almost couldn’t be simpler. When you put the plunger into the water, it forms a seal around the drain, with a bit of water and maybe air under its bell. Give it a shove, and you’re forcing this water into the drain, hopefully pushing whatever the clog was further along and out of your pipes.

Chemical Drain Cleaning

When the plunger doesn’t get the job done, most people turn to a chemical drain cleaner of some sort. This has to be done carefully since most cleansers are very corrosive chemicals. They come in either liquid or crystal form, and usually, you just have to pour it down the drain and let things sit for a few minutes. Often, the instructions advise rinsing with warm water for a few minutes after the treatment. Please be sure to do this only in a well-ventilated space — and never mix drain cleaner with bleach, as this can generate really dangerous gases such as chlorine, which was actually used as a weapon in WWI.

Snaking the Drain

When all else fails, it’s time for a deep, powerful snaking out of the clogged drain. A drain snake works by entering the clogged drain and physically scraping the blockage off the inside of the pipe. This usually requires a drill or other power tool, and it’s easy to damage older and PVC pipes if you’re not sure how to do it.

If that describes your situation, Bailey Sewer and Water can help. They have the tools and the experience to give your pipes a really thorough drain cleaning, so call today for help from a local plumber.