Everyone has to deal with a clogged drain at one point or another. It’s a common if not irritating problem that can occur anywhere inside your plumbing. Depending on where, you might not know how bad 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 unusual sounds coming from your pipes. These might be signs pointing to where the clog is. When you find it, you’ll have to figure out if you need to call a plumber or not. The following info may help you make a decision.

Does a Clogged Drain Always Need a Pro Plumber?

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

  • 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 entirely backed up, it’s probably safer for a certified plumber to take a look.
  • What formed the clog? Some substances can have a more serious effect on your plumbing. Simple organic waste like coffee or hair is unpleasant but typically easy to flush out on your own. Other materials like sewage can be much more difficult (and maybe even risky). Fixing these clogs will need more steps and the experience of a pro.

How Do I Stop Clogs Forming in My Plumbing System?

Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in your plumbing clogs can’t form. We count on our plumbing for so many things 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 typically hair. Taking care of a clogged sink drain, clogged tub drain or clogged shower drain can be as easy as cleaning the extra hair out. It’s fast, if a little gross. Other times, a hair-clogged drain can turn into 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 appear. 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 be responsible for injury.
  • Laundry and Clogs. Plumbing around the washing machine can clog, particularly if lint traps aren’t working like they do normally. Other washing machine clogs can be caused by laundry soap and grease stains on clothes.

How to Clear a Drain Clog

If it’s a little clog, you may be able to resolve the problem without professional help. Unclogging doesn’t always need special equipment. In fact, sometimes it’s as straightforward as getting the plunger. Here are a couple 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 be put in 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 efficient tool. Give your plunger a go before you get professional help.
  • Other home remedies can help. Did you know there’s a clogged drain home remedy? You can try to unclog your drain with baking soda and vinegar. We don’t recommend using store-bought liquid drain openers, since these toxic chemicals can corrode your pipes.

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

Contact Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for Expert Local 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!