by Pat Lunsford

Created on: September 03, 2008   Last Updated: September 29, 2009

Clogs can build for weeks before finally plugging the drain. However, there are several easy ways to help keep your drains clean and avoid expensive plumber visits without the use of harsh chemicals.

Baking soda and vinegar are perfectly natural and used in combination, they create a foaming action which adheres to hair and sludge. The foam then carries the buildup through the pipes, keeping them flowing freely. Hydrogen peroxide is also an effective way to keep your drains running smoother. Simply pour about a half cup of peroxide into the drain about twice a month and the foaming action loosens buildup around the inside of the pipe.

All drains should have some kind of protective screen to prevent anything other than water to pass. These screens should be kept clean. It only takes two or three hairs to catch soap scum. Imagine how much hair goes down the drain after shampooing!

Septic tanks need bacteria to run smoothly and antibacterial soaps kill these bacteria. Tobacco will also kill bacteria so never dump ashtrays into the toilet.

Most common clogs can be eliminated by proper use of a plunger. In most cases, simply pushing up and down is not very effective. Position the plunger over the drain or toilet bowl opening, give it three or four good plunges then yank it straight up. The plunging action loosens the clog and the fast upward motion should dislodge it.

If you experience a really stubborn clog, Draino is said to be safe for drains but only for occasional use.

For really stubborn clogs such as basement drains where perhaps a washing machine is connected, even the most efficient use of a plunger may not free it. A wire coat hanger can be stretched out and used as a snake to break up the clog. However, if this fails, run a water hose into the drain and use the force of the water to push the clog through.

For really stubborn clogs, there could be something that has been dropped into the drain such as a child's toy or a small piece of clothing like a sock. Home stores sell handy devices which enable you to reach into a drain to retrieve objects that may have accidentally ended up in the drain. They are relatively inexpensive, especially compared to the cost of a plumber. What's more, you'll have it for any future problems.

Therefore, a little diligent prevention practice can save a lot of future drain problems. Learning to use a plunger correctly can save you a lot of clogged drain headaches.

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