A clogged drain is a very common household problem. There are a few different things that can cause your drain to clog, but there are also some easy ways to avoid it. If you do end up with a clogged drain, don't worry! There are also some easy ways to fix it. Keep reading to learn more.
What Causes Drain Clogs?
There are actually a few different things that can cause your drain to clog. The first is hair. Every time you take a shower, small strands of hair fall out and eventually build up in your drain. Over time, this can create a big clog! Another thing that can cause your drain to clog is soap scum. This happens when the soap you use while showering (or even just washing your hands) doesn't fully rinse down the drain. It sticks to the sides of the pipes and eventually builds up enough to create a clog. Food particles can also contribute to drain clogs. When you wash dishes, small particles of food go down the drain and can eventually build up and create a blockage.
How to Avoid Clogged Drains?
Now that you know what can cause your drain to clog, you're probably wondering how you can avoid it. The best way to avoid a clogged drain is by being proactive about it. Every time you take a shower, make sure to use a hair catcher in your drains so that hair doesn't have a chance to build up. When washing dishes, be sure to scrape off any large food particles before putting them in the sink. And finally, be mindful about what you put down your drains! Don't pour grease or oil down the sink because they will eventually solidify and contribute to a clog.
How To Unclog A Drain?
If you're already dealing with a clogged drain, don't worry! There are some easy ways to unclog it yourself without having to call a plumber (although if the problem persists, definitely give one a call). One way is to simply use boiling water. Boil some water on the stove and then carefully pour it down your drain (being careful not to splash yourself!). This will help break up any smaller blockages in your pipes. Another way is by using vinegar and baking soda together. Just pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar, and let it sit for 15 minutes before running hot water down the drain for several minutes. If neither of these methods work, try using a plunger or an auger (plumbing snake). You can usually find these at your local hardware store relatively cheaply!
Drain clogs are no fun for anyone. But now that you know what causes them and how to avoid them, hopefully, you can prevent any future headaches. And if you end up with a clogged drain, at least you know there are ways to try fixing it yourself before calling a plumber.