3 Common Plumbing Clogs

If you own your own home, your utilities, especially your plumbing, are the primary systems upon which your family relies. You use your utilities every day, but may never give them a second thought until they stop working.

Unfortunately, plumbing systems will fail. These systems endure hundreds or possibly thousands of uses a year. It is remarkable that plumbing systems do not malfunction more often than they do. However, when your plumbing does stop working, it can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair the damage.

The best way to avoid major plumbing repairs is to deal with them quickly and efficiently. Here are three common clogging issues that can grow into major problems unless properly addressed.

Clogged toilets

Clogged toilets happen to everyone, especially after extensive use. Regardless of the cause, you will most likely try using a plunger once you notice a clog. It is advisable to use half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar after you plunge. These two compounds will cause a reaction that helps clear up any remaining blockage in the plumbing pipes. Using these treatments, you can prevent most major plumbing repairs.

Garbage disposal clogs

Garbage disposals are the second most likely system to fail in your home and many things can muck up this part of your plumbing. Many people are familiar with the task of plunging a toilet. However, it is not commonly known that removing a garbage disposal clog can be just as easy as plunging a toilet.

Before you try to fix your disposal, make sure it is cleared of all objects. You can find the bottom of the garbage disposal in the cabinet beneath the sink. Get an Allen wrench that is designed for garbage disposals. One should have come with your garbage disposal, but you can find one at any local hardware store. Look for a small hole under the disposal and work the Allen wrench into that hole, being careful to avoid the blades. Press the reset button located near the hole, turn on the water, and flip the switch to activate the garbage disposal. This process should clear most clogs.

Drain system clogs

Shower and tub drains are also a weak spot in your plumbing system. The most common clogging-culprit of your drains is hair. It is inevitable that your shower or tub will become clogged by hair, but the solution is to simply remove the hair.

You can get rid of these drain clogs by first removing the drain cap and cleaning out the hair, which should be clumped up. Once the visible hair is cleared, use a plunger a few times. You can also use the baking soda and vinegar combination to clear out any remaining hair. Boiled salt water (mixed at a four to one salt ratio) is a good alternative to baking soda and vinegar. If the problem persists, then you may have to call a plumbing company.

Remember, the best way to prevent a major plumbing repair bill is to fix these issues early and quickly. It is much easier to spend a little time and money on a small problem than a large sum of money and time on a big issue.

Regular maintenance and awareness can help you stop major plumbing repairs. However, if any problems persist, you should speak to an experienced plumbing company. Allen’s Tri-State Mechanical Inc. in Amarillo, Texas serves commercial, heavy industrial, and residential clients throughout the Texas Panhandle. Call us today at (806) 376-8345 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our services. You can also visit us in person at 404 S Hayden in Amarillo.