Clearing Fact From Fiction About Clearing Clogged Drains

There's nothing like a clogged drain to disrupt your daily routine and frustrate your day. The only thing worse than dealing with a clog is wasting time, effort, and money trying to go about your drain cleaning the wrong way. 

Here are some of the most prevalent myths about drain cleaning and what it takes to keep your plumbing system in good working order:

Myth 1: Hot Water Can Clear Any Clogged Drain

Maybe you have a relative or a buddy who swears that pouring hot water down a drain can effectively clear any clog. While hot water can help with minor blockages caused by grease or soap residue, it is not a universal solution. In fact, hot water can actually solidify certain substances. For example, hot water can melt grease near the top of a pipe, but that only lets it slide far enough down the pipes to where it will cool and reharden, leaving you with a bigger block than ever.

Myth 2: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Always Effective

Chemical drain cleaners make grand promises, and they're often marketed as a quick fix for clogged drains. However, these products can be harsh and potentially damaging to your plumbing system, and they are not suitable for severe blockages or recurring issues (no matter what their packaging says). Additionally, the chemicals in these products can be harmful to the environment and pose a significant danger of burns if you get them in contact with your skin.

Myth 3: Lemons Are Great for Cleaning Drains

While the citrus scent can temporarily mask unpleasant odors, lemon peels and juice do not have the ability to break down clogs or clear blockages. They provide a fresh fragrance if your drain smells a little foul, but that's about all they do.

Myth 4: Drains Don't Need Regular Maintenance

Most people don't think their drains need much care until a clog is inconveniently evident, but that's simply not true. Neglecting routine drain cleaning and maintenance can lead to a buildup of debris, hair, soap scum, skin cells, and other substances, ultimately resulting in stubborn clogs. Implementing preventive measures, such as using drain strainers and scheduling professional drain cleaning as part of your household maintenance routine, can help keep your drains clear and prevent costly plumbing emergencies.

The internet is filled with DIY drain cleaning hacks that promise quick and inexpensive solutions to clogged drains and other plumbing problems. While some may offer temporary relief, most do not effectively address the root cause of a clog. For example, using a wire hanger or a plunger might work for minor blockages, but for more complex issues, it's advisable to seek experienced assistance to prevent further damage to your plumbing system.

Contact a local company to learn more about drain cleaning.

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