Do you hate dealing with those nagging clogged drains? Well there is usually a simple answer to fix the problem. Some clogged drain only need to have the drain trap removed and cleaned of soap and hair. Others are going to require different measures stronger than just cleaning. Often times an item can be found at your local hardware store that will assist you in fighting even the toughest of clogged drain. Commercial drain cleaners are sold in stores in many different forms. You can find them in liquid, granular, or pressurized. Granular relies on lye to dissolve the clog, liquid uses lye and other chemicals and pressurized cleaners uses chlorofluorocarbon propellant and pressure to remove the clog.
Do's
* Clean the drain traps regularly.
* Treating the drain as soon as it starts to slow drain.
* Pour boiling water down drain that may be running slow due to grease build-up. Followed up by pouring some baking soda in the drain and flushing it with more hot water.
* Have a plunger handy for a quick need.
* Place a plug or cover over the overflow when using the plunger for maximum pressure and suction effect.
* When the simple steps have not proven to remove the clog you may want to try a commercial drain cleaner.
* When you use the granular drain cleaner remove any standing water. It is not necessary to remove water when using liquid drain cleaners.
* Use commercial drain cleaners with caution they can be harmful to eyes and skin. Use them in well ventilated area.
Don'ts
* Do not wait until the clog has completely stopped the drain up.
* Do not empty food or coffee grounds down a drain.
* Do not pour grease or any greasy type substance down the drain.
* Do not mix household cleansers with drain cleaners.
* Do not allow any chemical cleaner to remain on porcelain. Allowing it to remain will cause damage to the finish.
* Never mix two types of drain cleaners together.
* Make sure any previous cleaners in completely wash away by flushing with plenty of water before using another drain cleaner.
* Once you have used a chemical cleaner do not use a plunder or pressurized drain cleaner. Using these can cause a splash back which can contain chemicals.
* If you do need to call a plumber tell him of any chemical cleaner you may have previously used.
For drain that are just moderately clogged you can pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain followed then by 1/2 cup of vinegar. This will cause a reaction of foaming and fumes so if you replace the drain cover leave it loose. Wait about three hours then flush the drain.
Drain that may be slow running because of grease can usually be cleared by using 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of salt. Pour it down the drain with a pot of boiling hot water after them. Let it sit overnight.