Clearing A Clog
When the plunger doesn't get the job done, then what? It depends on the line that is plugged. If it is a sink, you have a P-trap underneath that you can take off, clean out and get that going again. If the clog is beyond the p-trap or if it is the toilet, you are going to need a “snake”. What is a "snake"? It's nothing more than a cable that spins as it is going in. Snaking a drain is performed with an auger, a coiled "snake" piece with a handle on one end. There are two types of plumbing snakes: drain augers, which are more common, and closet augers, which are smaller and mostly used by plumbers to unclog toilets. Now you have to be extremely careful when doing a toilet, because it will scar the porcelain down there and that scar will stay forever. Use something that has a plastic coating on it, so you can get it far enough in there where the scarring doesn't show. As the snake is spinning, it is cutting through whatever is blocking the pipe. Once the water starts flowing again your clog is taken care of.
Tips for Preventing Clogs
Dispose of Grease Properly: One of the leading causes of sink clogs is the improper disposal of grease. Instead of pouring it down the drain, let it cool and solidify in a container. Once it solidifies, throw it in the trash, reducing the chances of clogs.
Use Drain Covers: To prevent food particles, hair, and other debris from entering your sink drain, consider using drain covers. These inexpensive yet effective tools can catch the majority of the potential clog-causing materials, keeping your drains clear.
Avoid Overloading the Garbage Disposal: While garbage disposals are convenient, they are not designed to handle large amounts of food waste. Avoid overloading the disposal and scrape off excess food into the trash before rinsing dishes.
Regularly Clean the Sink Drain: Over time, debris can accumulate in the sink drain, leading to clogs. To prevent this, clean the drain regularly using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Pour the mixture down the drain, let it sit for a while, and then flush it with hot water.
Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain: It's essential to be mindful of what you allow to go down your sink drain. Avoid flushing items like coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous fruits and vegetables down the drain, as they can easily cause clogs.
Run Hot Water after Each Use: Running hot water for a few minutes after each use can help flush out any potential clog-causing materials. This simple step can go a long way in preventing future sink clogs.
