Try These Clog-Busting Tips

A clogged drain or a clogged toilet is always a hassle, but there are a number of things that you can do to prevent clogs and to clear them if they happen. Remember that your expert Brooklyn plumbers at Petri Plumbing & Heating are always here to back you up.

What Causes a Clogged Drain?

Clogs are often caused by fats, oils and greases in the kitchen. In the bathtub and shower, they can be caused by hair, especially combined with soap scum. Toilets are particularly vulnerable to clogging when inappropriate objects are flushed. 

How to Clear a Clogged Drain

Here are some easy tips to help prevent and clear a clogged drain:

• In the kitchen, wipe down greasy pots and pans over the trash can so the grease doesn’t go into the sink. 
• Put a strainer over the bathtub or sink drain to catch hair.
• Never flush paper towels, napkins, feminine products or so-called “flushable” wipes. Guard against toddlers flushing toys. The only objects that should go into the toilet are waste and toilet paper. 
• If a sink drain is clogged, you can try pushing a bent wire coating hanger down the drain to try to catch debris or hair. You can also fill your tea kettle with as much water is it will hold, boil the water and then pour it down the drain in three stages, giving the hot water time to work and drain down between pours. 

Everybody should have a couple of plungers in their home to clear most common clogs. There are sink plungers, also called cup plungers, and then there are toilet plungers that have a soft rubber flap that folds out and fits snugly into the trap of the toilet. There’s also a type called the accordion plunger that’s designed for toilets.

For a large clog, or one that’s far away from any of the fixtures in your home, you’d better call a professional. After a few failed attempts, it’s smart to call your Brooklyn plumbing experts at Petri Plumbing & Heating. Our drain cleaning services can quickly clear up clogs and clear out obstructions; give us a call today!