How to Take Care of Clogged Pipes

(Updated Sep 2024)

The Pain of a Clogged Drain

If you’ve ever had a clogged drain, you know the pain and inconvenience. And as a homeowner, you need solutions, not just “quick fixes” that will create long-term issues. That said, the best drain cleaning methods eliminate the clog without damaging the pipe itself. No matter how much you may read online that Drano and other solutions are safe, plumbers will tell you otherwise.

While these products may clear the blockage, the harsh chemicals eat away at the pipes and can stick around. This is why we want to talk about safe and effective ways to clean your drains. We also have great tips on how to prevent clogs and treat them yourself in our blog here.

Drain Cleaning Options

Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake (aka closet auger) is a cable tool that goes down into the drain to clear serious clogs. As the cable is reeled into the drain, and rotated, the tip of the cable spins and dislodges the materials stuck in the pipe. This is commonly used for unclogging toilets, kitchen and bathroom drains etc.

They are available for rent but we recommend reaching out to a plumber if you aren’t sure how to use it or don’t want to deal with the mess. If you’re interested in learning how to do it yourself, you can refer to our blog “How to Snake a Drain or Toilet“.

Hydro Jetter

Hydro jetting is another drain cleaning tool that uses high water pressure to clear the inside of the pipe. Unlike pushing through the clog, the hydro jetter clears out the residue (fats, oils, grease, and other materials) lining the interior walls of the pipe. The hydro jetter has a hose equipped with a nozzle that has three jets that release water.

The high water pressure allows the jetter to break down the materials as it travels up and down. This is an effective solution to maintaining the health and longevity of your pipes and preventing pipe deterioration. The hydro jetter can be used to treat kitchen, laundry, and sewer drain lines.

Snaking vs Hydrojetting

The main difference between snaking and hydro jetting is that hydro jetting cleans the pipe while snaking only clears the clog. With time and multiple homeowners, pipes accumulate build up on their interior walls.

It’s much easier for a clogged drain to happen if the diameter of the pipe is small. Hydro jetting will return the pipe to its original diameter or very close to it. It’s not uncommon for both methods to be used in conjunction if a drain is severely clogged and the pipe isn’t too old/broken to benefit from a deep clean. To illustrate:

Other Ways to Take Care of Clogged Pipes

Don’t have a snake or hydro jetter? Here are some other ways to deal with clogged pipes.

Start with Boiling water

If you’re dealing with a minor clog, pouring boiling water down the clogged drain can be an effective first step. The heat helps break down any grease, soap, or other debris that may be causing the blockage. Slowly pour the boiling water into the drain in stages, allowing it to work through the clog.

Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

For more stubborn clogs, you can create a natural cleaning solution by combining baking soda and vinegar. Pour about half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by an equal amount of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, helping to break down the clog. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.

Use a Plunger

If boiling water and baking soda don’t do the trick, it’s time to try a plunger on the kitchen or bathroom sink drains. Make sure there’s enough water in the sink or toilet to cover the plunger’s cup. Position the plunger over the drain and push down firmly, then pull up quickly to create suction. Repeat this motion several times until the clog is dislodged.

Prevention is Key

The best way to handle clogged pipes is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips:

• Mind what goes down the drain: Avoid pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the kitchen sink. These substances can solidify and cause clogs.
• Dispose of food waste properly: Use a garbage disposal wisely and avoid overloading it.
• Regular garbage disposal care: Run cold water for about 15 seconds before and after using the garbage disposal to help grind and flush away waste.
• Hair management: Install a drain cover in your shower or bathtub to catch hair before it goes down the drain.
• Regular cleaning: Use a drain strainer to catch food particles and other debris before they enter the pipes.

Common Plumbing Clog Culprits

Understanding the common causes of clogs can help you prevent them. Here are some culprits:

• Hair: Hair is a major contributor to clogs in bathroom drains.
• Soap scum: A buildup of soap scum can clog shower drains and bathtub overflows.
• Grease and oil: These substances solidify in pipes, leading to clogs.
• Food particles: Food waste can accumulate in kitchen drains and cause blockages.
• Toilet paper: Flushing wipes, diapers, or excessive toilet paper can lead to clogs.

What Not to Do When Unclogging Pipes

While it’s important to know how to clear a clogged drain, it’s equally important to understand what not to do. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners: Many commercial drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes over time. These products may provide a quick fix, but they can also corrode your plumbing, leading to bigger problems down the line.

Avoid Forcing Tools into Drains: When using a plunger, snake, or auger, be gentle. Forcing these tools into the drain can damage the pipes or cause the clog to become more compact, making it harder to clear.

Don’t Ignore Small Clogs: Small clogs may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can quickly turn into bigger problems if left untreated. Addressing a clog as soon as you notice it can prevent more severe blockages.

Avoid Multiple Methods at Once: While it’s tempting to try multiple methods at once to clear a stubborn clog, this can sometimes cause more harm than good. Stick to one method at a time to avoid damaging your plumbing.

Drain Cleaning in Vancouver, Camas, and Portland

Clogged pipes can be a hassle, but with the right tools and techniques, you can often clear them on your own. However, if you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or want to avoid potential damage to your plumbing, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

Simpson Plumbing is your trusted plumber. We’re here to help you with your plumbing inconveniences and empower you to take care of your home. If you have a clogged kitchen sink, shower, toilet, or whatever it may be, we are here for you! Contact us today to schedule your service.