If you live in Chattanooga, TN, and want to keep your drains free from blockages and backups caused by changing water conditions and seasonal shifts, regular maintenance is essential. Whether you’re facing minor slow drains or significant clogs, knowing the proper way to clean your drains can save you time, money, and frustration. While some drain cleaning can be done yourself, stubborn or severe blockages often require professional assistance.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
Knowing what causes clogged drains can help you take preventive measures and address issues promptly. Hair and soap scum buildup in bathroom sinks and showers is a frequent culprit behind stubborn blockages. In kitchen sinks, grease and food particles gradually accumulate, leading to clogs over time.
Tree roots can invade underground pipes, especially in older homes or those with mature landscaping, causing serious blockages. Hard water is another factor, as it leads to mineral deposits inside pipes that restrict water flow and hinder drainage. Additionally, flushing inappropriate items like sanitary pads or baby wipes down the toilet can cause major clogs.
Boiling Water
One of the simplest and most effective ways to clear minor clogs is by pouring boiling water down the drain. High temperatures help dissolve residues like soap scum and grease that cause slow drainage. To try this method, boil a large pot of water and slowly pour it down the drain, allowing each batch to flow completely through the pipes before adding more. This technique is especially effective in bathroom and kitchen drains, where soap and grease buildup is common. Regularly pouring boiling water down your drains can keep them clear and help prevent more serious blockages from developing.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Similar to boiling water, baking soda and distilled white vinegar create an eco-friendly and effective method for cleaning drains. This natural chemical reaction helps break down blockages and eliminate unpleasant odors. To use this method, pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let the mixture fizz and work for 15 to 20 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water. This gentle yet efficient approach is safe for your plumbing and ideal for tackling minor clogs and buildup.
Plumbing Snake or Auger
For tougher clogs, a hand-cranked plumbing snake can be a great tool. Insert the snake into the drain and turn it to navigate through the pipes and break up or pull out blockages. This method is especially effective for clearing hair and debris lodged deep inside. If you encounter significant resistance, a more advanced auger may be necessary to reach and remove stubborn or deep-seated obstructions.
Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting uses powerful high-pressure water jets to thoroughly clean and clear pipes. This professional-grade method removes heavy buildup, grease, scale, and grime that other methods may miss. Hydro jetting is especially beneficial for older plumbing systems or pipes suffering from significant deposits. Because it can reach and clean difficult areas, it is an excellent choice for a deep, comprehensive pipe cleaning.
Rooter Service
When clogged drains are caused by invasive tree roots or major blockages, professional rooter service is the ideal solution. Using specialized equipment, rooter technicians can cut through and remove roots and other debris that obstruct your pipes. A rotating blade is often used to slice through roots, restoring proper flow and preventing future backups.
Camera Drain Inspection
Camera drain inspection is a powerful diagnostic tool that plumbing experts use to pinpoint complex drain issues. Equipped with a flexible rod and camera, this technology lets plumbers see inside your pipes in real time. It helps detect problems such as cracks, root intrusion, or heavy buildup, allowing for accurate diagnosis and targeted repairs.
If you need assistance with drain cleaning or any other plumbing needs, BP Plumbing is here to help. We also provide plumbing repairs, leak detection, sump pump installation, water filtration services, and more.
Call BP Plumbing today to schedule professional drain cleaning for your Chattanooga home!
