Clogged drains are a common household problem that can lead to significant plumbing issues if not addressed quickly. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a completely blocked pipe, it’s important to understand how to fix clogged drains and maintain healthy pipes. At Northern Lakes Plumbing and Sewer, we are experts in providing reliable plumbing services in Round Lake Beach. Our team is ready to help with effective solutions to keep your home’s plumbing system in top condition.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
Drains can become clogged for a variety of reasons, often resulting from the buildup of debris, grease, soap, hair, and food particles. Over time, these substances accumulate and restrict water flow, leading to slow drains or complete blockages. While some blockages are minor and can be fixed easily, others may require professional intervention from trusted plumbers in Round Lake Beach like Northern Lakes Plumbing and Sewer.
Methods for Unclogging Drains
When you experience a clogged drain, Northern Lakes Plumbing and Sewer has a few trusted methods for unclogging and maintaining healthy pipes. Here are some of the ways we handle drain issues:
Using a Plunger: The first method we usually try is the plunger. A plunger creates suction, helping to dislodge blockages preventing proper drainage. We recommend using a cup plunger for sinks and bathtubs, and a flange plunger for toilets. For best results, we ensure there’s enough water in the fixture to form a solid seal before using the plunger.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution: For minor clogs, we may suggest using a natural baking soda and vinegar solution. By pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of vinegar, we allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes before flushing it with hot water. This method helps to break down grease, soap, and other debris contributing to the clog.
Drain Snake or Auger: If a plunger or natural solution doesn’t work, we may use a drain snake or auger. These tools are long, flexible rods that can reach deeper into your pipes to clear out blockages that are too stubborn for other methods. At Northern Lakes Plumbing and Sewer, we use these tools carefully to ensure that we don’t cause any damage to your pipes while removing the clog.
Hydro Jetting: For severe blockages, we offer hydro jetting, an advanced method that uses high-pressure water to clear out debris, grease, and other buildup from inside your pipes. Hydro jetting is effective for clearing stubborn clogs and restoring your plumbing to its optimal condition.
Maintaining Healthy Drains and Pipes
To avoid future clogs and keep your plumbing system in good shape, regular maintenance is key. Here are some tips that we at Northern Lakes Plumbing and Sewer recommend:
Avoid Pouring Grease Down Drains: One of the leading causes of clogged drains in kitchens is grease. When grease cools down, it hardens and forms blockages in your pipes. We recommend disposing of grease in a container rather than pouring it down the drain to prevent buildup.
Install Drain Screens: We suggest installing drain screens or traps in your sinks and bathtubs. These simple devices catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter your pipes, reducing the likelihood of clogs.
Flush with Hot Water Regularly: Flushing your drains with hot water periodically helps dissolve soap scum and grease that can accumulate inside the pipes. We recommend doing this regularly to maintain healthy drainage and prevent blockages.
Schedule Routine Inspections: To keep your pipes free from blockages and other potential issues, we recommend scheduling regular inspections. Our professional plumbers in Round Lake Beach will check for any signs of buildup or leaks, ensuring that any issues are addressed before they become major problems.
Reliable Plumbing Service Awaits! Trust Northern Lakes Plumbing and Sewer!
Clogged drains don’t have to be a headache when you have the right tools and knowledge. At Northern Lakes Plumbing and Sewer, we offer a variety of methods to clear blockages and maintain healthy pipes. Whether you need a quick fix or a more advanced solution, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for expert plumbing service in Round Lake Beach, and let us keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly. You can count on us as one of the best plumbers in Round Lake Beach for reliable, efficient service.