Which Drain Cleaner is Right For Your Home

You may wonder whether you should use a chemical drain cleaner or a mechanical one to clean your clogged drains. The two are often synonymous, as drain cleaners are chemical products that unclog clogged wastewater drains and sewer pipes. Other mechanical tools you can use include a plumber's snake, a drain auger, and a toilet plunger. Which one is right for your home? Here are some tips for both.


Biological drain cleaners

Biological drain cleaners are becoming a popular option for homeowners looking for a natural and safe alternative to chemical drain cleaners. Unlike chemical drain cleaners, bio drain cleaners are non-toxic, and they do not harm inorganic materials or living tissue. They break down waste material into water, carbon dioxide, and mineral ash, which run out of the system and feed plant life. In addition to ensuring safety, these products are environmentally friendly as the parts left behind by the cleaning process are used to feed plants.


Bio drain cleaners come in two forms - liquid and dry. Both products work the same way, but a liquid one has a shorter shelf life. This is because the bacteria within the solution interact with other substances when it is stored, and the surfactant used as a preservative reduces its effectiveness. On the other hand, dry powders have a longer shelf life and are more economical, and bacteria do not reproduce well in hot conditions.


Plumbing augers

Clogged drains can make your house slow down. Knowing the proper drain auger to use can save you money and frustration from a plumber.


Here are the steps you should follow:


  1. Uncoil the auger's handle. Make sure it is long enough for the pipe.

  2. Slowly insert it into the drain opening.

  3. Start turning the crank handle until the auger feels resistance.

Eventually, it will break up the obstruction.


Using an auger can help you get rid of solid, shreddable obstructions. It can break apart larger pieces of soap, root, or even mud. It can even scrape minerals and oil from the pipe walls. These augers are ideal for tackling the toughest clogs, and they can break up even the thickest obstruction. For this reason, plumbers recommend that you use a drain auger for all of your clogged pipes. A trusted drain cleaning Phoenix, AZ is all you need for your plumbing issues; they can help you with your plumbing issues.


Plunger

A standard plunger is the most common drain cleaning tool. It is a flat, wood handle with a rubber cup on one end. Plungers with angled blades are not intended for household use and are only useful for drain cleaning professionals. A cup plunger is the most common drain cleaning tool and works best on bathtubs and sinks with flat surfaces. Fortunately, there are many different types of plungers available.


When using a plunger to clean a sink or toilet, make sure you match the style to the type of drain. Small clogs are easy to remove with the plunger's pressure, but larger ones may not respond to the plunger's pressure. Make sure you read the directions carefully to avoid damaging your pipes. You should not use a plunger if the clog is a major obstacle, such as a small child's toy. Small pieces of toilet paper and chicken bones should not be plunged down the drain.


Hydro jetting

Before hydro jetting your drains, sewers, and pipes, a plumbing professional will first perform a CCTV video inspection to ensure the integrity of the pipework. Often, older, frail pipes may not be able to withstand high-pressure water and could even be damaged. The contractor will also ensure that the drainage pipe has not collapsed. Hydro jetting will not be effective if this happens, and the repair will require a replacement.


Unlike drain cleaners, hydro jetting is an effective method of clearing clogged pipes. This method is effective for major clogs in the sewer line. The plumber can use video inspection equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the clog and use the most appropriate technique to clear the line. If the problem is more complex, hydro jetting may be necessary. However, this method is not for everyone. While hydro jetting isn't for every clogged pipe, it is a great solution for larger drains.