Blocked Drains Near Me

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should You Tip a Plumber?

A plumber should not expect a tip from you when he does a great job fixing your sink. But if he doesn't do a good job, you may consider giving him a tip for his time and effort.

You shouldn't feel obligated to give a plumber a tip just because he did a good job on your house. Many other people would appreciate his services if you don't think he deserves a tip.

And remember that tipping isn't always appropriate. For example, waiters and bartenders often make tips part of their wages, but they still deserve them. And if you're paying someone by the hour, you might want to consider how much you think they worked for each minute or second.

But if you're paying for a service, you should be able to decide whether or not to leave a tip.

Why do your drains keep clogging?

Drain blockage could be caused by hair, food waste, and soap scum.

To prevent this from happening again, you need to know what causes them.

The most common cause of a blocked drain is grease build-up. Grease builds up over time when fats and oils are not properly removed from cooking utensils such as pans and skillets. This can lead to an unpleasant smell that attracts flies and other insects.

Grease also makes its way into the drainage system through kitchen sinks and washing machines, where it mixes with water and soap and collects at the bottom of the sink/drain.

If you notice any unusual smells coming from your drains, try using a product called "Drain Away," which contains enzymes to break down fat deposits.

Also, remember to regularly clean your drains, especially if they have been unused for a while. Use a stiff wire brush or putty knife to scrape away debris and grime.

You can also add two cups of white vinegar to your bathtub and run the tub full blast for about 15 minutes. Then empty the water and let the tub dry for 24 hours. This will dissolve many types of grease buildup.

Another reason why your drains may start to clog is because of plumbing problems like worn-out pipes or broken pipe joints. To fix this, call a plumber immediately.

Another reason your drains may begin to clog is a lack of maintenance. When was the last time you cleaned your drains? Have they ever been cleaned? Do you even know how to clean them?

Remember to check the drain every six months for signs of damage or wear and tear. If you find any signs of damage, take note of the location and contact a professional plumber immediately.

How do you unclog a toilet without a plunger when the water is high?

If you have a plunger at home, use it. Otherwise, try using a plastic bag. It might not work for everyone, but it should help prevent further damage. Make sure to put the bag over the bowl before you flush.

How do I turn my plumbing snake into a corner?

A "Snake" is a tool used for cleaning drains. The most common type of drain cleaner is known as a Plumbing Snake. It consists of a long flexible tube connected at both ends to a handle. You insert the end of the pipe into the blocked drain and pull it back until you reach the obstruction. Then you push the other end of the snake into the blockage and pull it back again. This action should dislodge any obstructions from the inside of the pipe. If this does not work, you may need to use an auger instead. An auger is similar to a drill except with a spiral blade on one side. Instead of drilling holes in the pipe, you simply screw the auger into the pipes and rotate it clockwise. As the auger rotates, it will cut through the pipe wall and create a large hole, allowing the drain to flow freely.

Statistics

Use an Efficient ToiletRoughly 25 to 30 percent of all water use in a typical household is accounted for by the toilet. (mrrooter.com)
Toilet use accounts for 25 to 30 percent of household water use. (epa.gov)
Toilet use accounts for 25 to 30 percent of household water use. (epa.gov)
Water damage is the leading cause of home insurance claims, accounting for around 40 percent. (rd.com)
Washing machines that bear this label perform with an energy savings of 35 percent and a water savings of 50 percent over regular models. (mrrooter.com)

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How To

How To Unclog A Drain Pipe

With the help of this article, you'll learn how to unblock any drainpipe. You'll find out what tools are needed and what methods should be used to unblock your pipe. In addition, some tips and tricks are shared along with the steps so that you don't make mistakes when trying to unclog your pipes.

The best way to unclog a drainpipe is to use a plunger. Plungers work great because they apply pressure directly against the clogged area, which helps dislodge whatever's obstructing the flow through the drain. The problem with plungers is that they're bulky and expensive. They're also difficult to maneuver around tight spaces like under sinks or toilets.

A less expensive option is to use a snake. Snakes come in different sizes and shapes, depending on their intended usage. Some snakes are designed specifically for draining small drains, while others are meant for large plumbing systems. Although snakes are cheaper than plungers, they require a lot of practice before they become effective at clearing blockages.

Another alternative is to use a flexible metal rod called a rod wrench. Rod wrenches are usually made from stainless steel and are available in multiple lengths ranging anywhere from 4 inches up to 12 feet long. Rod wrenches are inexpensive and easy to carry around. However, if you need a longer length, you'll need to buy extra rods. Rod wrenches are useful for clearing clogs in large drains such as bathtub drains, kitchen sink drains, garbage disposal drains, etc.

If none of these options work, there's always the old-fashioned method of digging. Digging is probably the most common way people try to unclog a clogged drain. While this might seem like a quick fix, it can cause serious damage to your home if done improperly. If you choose to dig, first check to see if you have access to a shovel. You can purchase one at any hardware store for $10-$20. Next, you'll want to determine where exactly the clog is located. This can be tricky since the drain could be hidden beneath concrete, dirt, or even mud. When determining the location of the clog, you'll want to look closely at the walls surrounding the drain. There's a good chance that the clog will hide near the wall. Once you've found the clog, dig down 1/2 inch into the soil and remove it.

Once you've removed the clog, run hot water through the drain until it flows freely again. Then, clean the drain thoroughly with soap and water. After cleaning, let the drain sit overnight to allow the debris to settle back into place. Finally, flush the drain with cold water to ensure everything is clear.

Most homeowners rely on their gut instinct when choosing a plumber. Unfortunately, not all plumbers possess the same level of skill and expertise. To avoid hiring an amateur who might end up costing you more money in the long run, here are some things to consider:

Do your research - Before calling a plumber, ask friends and neighbors about their experience with them. Read customer reviews online, too. Look for professionalism, including business licenses, insurance certificates, and accreditations (as shown above). Also, ensure the plumber has appropriate training and experience working on pipes.
Check credentials - Ask how long the plumber has been in business. Are they licensed? Accredited by specific organizations? Can they provide proof of insurance? Make sure they’re bonded, too.
Find out what services they offer - Do they specialize in certain areas, such as sewer repair, drain repairs, faucet replacement, or other tasks? What tools will they bring to the job site, and how much will those costs? How quickly can they respond to emergencies?
Get estimates - You may feel comfortable taking a contractor’s word regarding pricing, but you should still request written estimates from several plumbing companies before making a decision.
Ask about warranties - Will the company honor a warranty? Will they replace parts if needed? Many plumbers include warranties in their contracts, so read yours carefully.
Consider referrals - If possible, get the names of three or four past customers. Contact them to find out how well their service was delivered.
Schedule appointments - It’s best to schedule plumbing maintenance during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions. In addition, call ahead to confirm the appointment time and address to avoid running late.
Follow up - After completing the job, don't forget to follow up with a phone call to check on the project's status. For example, if you're waiting on a part delivery, call to see when it arrives. And if you haven't heard anything after a few days, contact the plumber directly to find out why.