Everyone has to deal with a clogged drain at one time or another. It’s a common if not annoying problem that can pop up anywhere inside your plumbing. Depending on where, you might not know how severe a clog is. It can make it harder to know when it’s time to call for a plumber in Greater Richmond.

You may be able to determine for yourself how bad the clog is. Check nearby drains or listen for bizarre sounds coming from your pipes. These might be signs pointing to where the clog started. When you find it, you’ll have to figure out if you want to call a plumber or not. The following info may help you make a decision.

When Does a Clog Need a Pro Plumber?

There are a variety of things that affect the seriousness of a clog in the plumbing. The info you have about a growing clog could lead a Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling plumber to its source sooner.

  • Where is it? One of the most important aspects of a clog is where in your plumbing it appeared. Most of your home’s pipes are in difficult-to-access places like behind walls and under floors. Some clogs may need professional equipment to reach in the first place.
  • Can water flow? If the pipes are still draining, you may be able to resolve the clog on your own. But if a fixture or appliance is totally backed up, it’s generally safer for a licensed plumber to take a look.
  • What started the clog? Some substances can have a greater effect on your plumbing. Simple organic waste like coffee or hair is unpleasant but typically easy to clean out on your own. Other materials like sewage can be much more complicated (and maybe even risky). Resolving these clogs will need more steps and the experience of a pro.

Where Can Clogs Form in My Home’s Plumbing?

Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in your plumbing clogs can’t form. We rely on our plumbing for so many chores like cleaning, cooking and laundry. A clog can form near the appliances and fixtures we use or within the pipes themselves.

  • Bathroom Clogs: Your toilet, sink and shower can all clog. If your bathroom drain is clogged, the culprit is often hair. Taking care of a clogged sink drain, clogged tub drain or clogged shower drain can be as straightforward as pulling the extra hair out. It’s fast, if a little gross. Other times, a hair-clogged drain can lead to a clogged drain deep in the pipe. In this instance, you may need professional help.
  • Kitchen Clogs: Your kitchen sink and dishwasher are the most common places for a clog to start. Is your kitchen drain clogged? Use the garbage disposal properly to be certain food waste doesn’t collect. But if the disposal itself is clogged, don’t reach into it! The blades can result in injury.
  • Laundry and Clogs. Plumbing close to the washing machine can clog, especially if lint traps aren’t working like they should. Other washing machine clogs can be formed from laundry soap and grease stains on clothes.

Tips for Fixing a Drain Clog

If it’s a simple clog, you may be able to fix the problem by yourself. Unclogging doesn’t always need special equipment. In fact, sometimes it’s as straightforward as reaching for the plunger. Here are a few tips for DIY drain maintenance!

  • Mesh or mindfulness goes a long way. Using mesh filters or other traps for sink drains can keep foreign materials out of your plumbing. Keep an eye on what you’re bringing to your kitchen or bathroom sink. If it’s something that can clog, try to safely break it down.
  • Know what shouldn’t be flushed. Things like baby wipes, cooking grease and potato peels aren’t supposed to end up down the drain. Dispose of them properly to keep your plumbing in the best possible condition.
  • Always try your trusty plunger. Even if a leak looks bad, your plunger is a simple and effective tool. Give your plunger a go before you call for professional help.
  • Other home remedies can help. Did you know there’s a clogged drain home remedy? You can try to flush your drain with baking soda and vinegar. We don’t recommend using store-bought liquid drain openers, since these toxic chemicals can negatively affect your pipes.

Tried these tips but still have a problem? Call us at 804-302-6657 for quick and affordable drain cleaning in Greater Richmond.

Call Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for Prompt, Professional Plumbers in Greater Richmond

Keeping your home’s plumbing in good condition is important to everyone at Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. Our plumbers are committed to providing you with the best plumbing service in Greater Richmond. If you need quality drain cleaning services, we’ve got you covered.

We have the tools and training to get the job done right. For pro plumbing services, call Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today. Get in touch to request more info or to schedule an appointment. Call us today at 804-302-6657!