We at First Choice Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning have assisted numerous New Jersey homeowners in resolving their plumbing issues.
A clogged drain can cause standing water, unpleasant odors and even irreversible pipe damage in addition to being inconvenient.
However, you can do a few things to prevent it or to try and unclog it yourself before calling a qualified plumber. Some fizzing methods, shower pipe cleaners and others. In this post, we will explain the best DIY options!
Why Hair Clogs Happen & How They Build Up
When a person is taking a shower, more often than not some hair can fall down the drain. It may not seem like much, but they have a tendency to cling to one another whenever they are in touch with other residues, like soap, shampoo, oils and even minerals that are present in the water itself.
Over time, this hair buildup tends to solidify and can create some serious blockage inside the pipes. Because of this accumulation, water cannot drain properly and instead collects around your feet in the shower or fills your sink.
The obstruction may become more difficult to remove and may lead to more serious plumbing problems if it is ignored.
DIY Ways to Remove Hair Clogs
Some people like to try some at-home methods before calling a plumber. There is no problem with that and it can indeed work sometimes when the problems are simple and on a more surface level. However, there are some DIYs that are better and safer than others.
These are the 5 DIY ways we think work best:
Make use of a vinegar and baking soda mixture
Common kitchen ingredients are used in one of the most dependable natural methods. You must do this by pouring one cup of vinegar and half a cup of baking soda down the drain. There will be a fizz after adding both; leave it for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse with hot water.
What this does is the fizzing creates some mild pressure that is able to break down some residue types (like hair buildup, in some cases) and then the hot water helps wash it away down the drain. Not only is it simple, but it is also safe for pipes and septic systems.
Try a shower pipe cleaner
The type of hair buildup commonly found in bathroom drains can be removed with a particular shower pipe cleaner. Select a drain cleaner that is marked as septic safe to ensure it won’t damage your system. By using one once every few weeks, you can keep your drains clear and odor-free and prevent future blockages.
Use a tool to remove hair clogs
Physical removal is sometimes the simplest course of action. Direct removal of hair clumps can be accomplished with a tiny plastic drain snake or zip tool. The majority of hardware stores carry these affordable, reusable tools. Gently insert the tool, twist and pull it out to remove any debris or hair that has become lodged.
Try a hair clog remover liquid
A hair clog remover liquid might be required for more stubborn clogs. Hair, grease and soap buildup are among the organic materials that these liquids are designed to dissolve. Always use one according to the directions on the product and avoid combining it with other cleaners.
Flush with boiling water
Hot water alone can occasionally clear clogs, particularly those that are smaller and more superficial. You just need to run some hot water down the drain to accomplish this. What it will do is break up any mild residue that may have accumulated there.
Preventing Future Hair Clogs
Even if your drains are not clogged at the moment, we still have some tips for you. That’s because there are a few things everyone can do to have a healthier plumbing system that doesn’t clog that easily.
For example:
- Keep your drains covered. You can do that with a mesh drain cover or even a hair catcher.
- Not only use a drain cover, but also remember to clean it. The same things that clog a drain can get in the way of the cover and make it harder for the water to follow its path.
- Leave the hair clumps and other things for the dumpster.
- Pour hot water down the drain from 2 to 4 times a month (could also be done as a weekly thing).
- Ask a plumber to do a routine cleanse on your drains whenever you sense some weird smells or at the smallest blockage.
By following these easy and quick tips, you can keep your plumbing system healthy and functioning properly while also avoiding clogged drains and offensive odors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best way to clear a hair clogged drain?
The best way to clear a hair clogged drain is to start with natural methods like baking soda and vinegar. If that doesn’t fully clear it, try a shower pipe cleaner or a drain snake for deeper clogs.
Can I use a septic safe drain cleaner for hair clogs?
Yes, a septic safe drain cleaner is a great option for homes with septic systems. It removes hair and buildup without harming pipes or disrupting the natural balance in your septic tank.
Is hair clog remover liquid safe for my shower pipes?
Most hair clog remover liquids are safe as long as you follow the product directions. Avoid overuse and always check that it’s safe for your type of plumbing before applying it.
Contact First Choice Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning for Professional Drain Cleaning Services in New Jersey
Your plumbing system may be the source of the issue if none of these do-it-yourself fixes resolve it. That’s when you need professional help.
First Choice Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning offers trustworthy and reasonably priced drain cleaning services throughout North New Jersey. Our expert plumbers use advanced tools to safely remove stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes.
Contact us and let us help you get your drains running smoothly again!