Unclogging the Most Common Household Clogs

Clogs in our household plumbing can be incredibly frustrating, leading to slow drains, foul odors, and even sewage backups. With so many different possible sources of clogs, many of us might be left wondering where to start in treating the problem. In this post, we’ll go over the most common household clogs that many people face and discuss some effective solutions for clearing them out.

Bathroom Sink and Shower Drains

The bathroom sink and shower drain get clogged frequently due to the accumulation of hair, soap, and toothpaste. These items can stick to the drain walls and create blockages. Over time, these clogs will cause the water to drain slowly or not at all. To unclog these drains, you can use a plunger or a drain snake. Baking soda and vinegar can also do wonders in breaking down the buildup – pour half a cup of baking soda, followed by half a cup of vinegar, and then 15-20 minutes later, flush the drain with hot water to rinse everything away.

Toilet

A clogged toilet is one of the most unpleasant clogs to have in your home. Most of the time, the blockage is caused by too much toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, or flushable wipes. If you’re dealing with a plugged toilet, try using a plunger first. If you’re unsure, you can call a plumber for assistance. Call Rooter Man of NJ to help you with any of your plumbing needs.

Kitchen Sink

In the kitchen, the sink drain clogs due to the build-up of grease, fats, and oils. These items can cling to the sides of the drainpipes, eventually attracting other materials and creating a clog. To prevent kitchen sink clogs, avoid pouring cooking oil, grease, or fat down the drain. Instead, wipe these substances off cookware with a paper towel or pour them into a separate container, and dispose of them in the trash.

Washing Machine

Clogged washing machine drains are another frustrating problem that homeowners can face. These clogs arise due to the accumulation of small clothing fibers, soaps, and dirt. To avoid clogs in the washing machine, use a mesh lint filter to catch all those small fibers and vacuum the filter regularly. Once in awhile, flush the drain with hot water, baking soda, and white vinegar to keep it all flowing smoothly.

Main Sewer Line

The main sewer line clog is a nightmare situation, and you have to take it seriously as this can lead to severe plumbing problems. This blockage happens when tree roots, flushing non-degradable items, or a collapsed pipe cause the main drain to fail. To prevent this from happening, you can have a backwater valve installed to avoid flooding and clogging.

Household clogs can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be a constant problem. Understanding the primary sources of clogs in your home can help you take steps to prevent them and clear them out quickly and efficiently. While some clogs are simple enough to clear out on your own with a plunger and some elbow grease, others may call for professional assistance such as Rooter Man of NJ. By keeping your drains clear and taking steps to prevent clogs, you’ll help to keep your home’s plumbing in good working condition.