5 Ways to Handle Drain Problems

Drain problems seem to crop up at the most inconvenient times. When you have drain problems, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and like there’s nothing you can do to fix them…but that’s not true! Whether you need help figuring out why your sink or tub won’t drain or how to clear a clogged toilet, our plumber Markham has 5 ways to handle drain problems so you can get on with your routine.

Keep Your Drains Clear

To keep plumbing issues from cropping up, get in a regular routine of clearing drains. Every month, flush your sink with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down your drain and follow with 1/2 cup vinegar (or white vinegar if you prefer). This will not only keep your drains clear but also neutralize odors that build up over time. If you do experience a clog, try pouring boiling water down the drain; it usually works like magic. If nothing seems to work, it’s better to call in a professional specialized in drain cleaning Markham.

Unplug the Sink

Even a simple clog can lead to major damage in your plumbing system. First, unplug both ends of your sink and run water through it for 20 minutes to make sure all food scraps or other blockages are cleared out. Next, grab an auger, a long metal pole, and run it down your drain while someone flushes water through from above.

Use a Plunger

Plungers are probably your best bet. You can try a few different plunging techniques, too—push straight down and then pull back up quickly, twist in a circular motion before pushing down, or push down and then pull back up slowly. If you don’t feel like plunging manually, you could use an auger.

 Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

If you’re dealing with a slow drain, you might be tempted to reach for a chemical drain cleaner. While it will clear your drain fast, it can also harm your pipes. When used incorrectly or too frequently, these products can do serious damage. In fact, even regular use of these products can lead to corrosion of your pipes.

Call in the Pros

Most drain problems are best handled by a professional. It’s not that common DIY fixes won’t work; it’s just that they may require extensive knowledge and expertise to execute effectively, and even then there’s no guarantee of success. If you aren’t well versed in plumbing, call in a professional emergency plumber Markham. You may be surprised at how affordable it is.

Avoid Future Clogs

Run your garbage disposal for 30 seconds after each use. Keep a basket in your sink for hair accessories and other small objects that can clog up your drain. Always use cold water when washing dishes. Don’t pour grease down a sink or garbage disposal; instead, allow it to cool and solidify before disposing of it in an appropriate container. When a problem pops up, please call in a professional and get it fixed ASAP.