Everyone has to deal with a clogged drain at one time or another. It’s a common if not frustrating problem that can pop up anywhere in your plumbing. Depending on where, you might not realize how serious a clog is. It can make it harder to know when it’s time to call for a plumber in The Bay Area.

You may be able to figure out for yourself how bad the clog is. Check the closest drains or listen for unusual sounds coming from your pipes. These might be signs pointing to where the clog is. When you find it, you’ll have to figure out if you want to call a plumber or not. The following info may help you choose.

Are There Clogs That Can Only Be Fixed by a Pro Plumber?

There are a number of things that affect the seriousness of a clog in the plumbing. The info you have about a growing clog could lead a Contra Costa Heating & AC plumber to its source sooner.

  • Where is it? One of the most important aspects of a clog is where in your plumbing it appeared. Most of your home’s pipes are in tucked-away places like behind walls and under floors. Some clogs may need specialized equipment to reach in the first place.
  • Can water flow? If the pipes are still draining, you may be able to tackle the clog on your own. But if a fixture or appliance is completely backed up, it’s usually safer for a licensed plumber to take a look.
  • What formed the clog? Some substances can have a bigger effect on your plumbing. Simple organic waste like coffee or hair is unpleasant but generally easy to clean out on your own. Other materials like sewage can be much more complex (and maybe even risky). Fixing these clogs will need more steps and the experience of a pro.

Where Can Clogs Form in My Plumbing System?

Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in your plumbing clogs can’t form. We depend on our plumbing for so many tasks like cleaning, cooking and laundry. A clog can show up near the appliances and fixtures we use or within the pipes themselves.

  • Bathroom Clogs: Your toilet, sink and shower can all clog. If your bathroom drain is clogged, the culprit is typically hair. Taking care of a clogged sink drain, clogged tub drain or clogged shower drain can be as simple as removing the clogged hair. It’s fast, if a little gross. Other times, a hair-clogged drain can turn into a clogged drain deep in the pipe. In this instance, you may need professional help.
  • Kitchen Clogs: Your kitchen sink and dishwasher are the most common places for a clog to form. Is your kitchen drain clogged? Use the garbage disposal properly to be certain food waste doesn’t collect. But if the disposal itself is clogged, don’t reach into it! The blades can result in injury.
  • Laundry and Clogs. Plumbing around the washing machine can clog, especially if lint traps aren’t working like they do normally. Other washing machine clogs can be caused by laundry soap and grease stains on clothes.

Tips for Fixing a Clogged Drain

If it’s a simple clog, you may be able to fix the problem without professional help. Unclogging doesn’t always need special equipment. In fact, sometimes it’s as simple as grabbing the plunger. Here are some tips for DIY drain maintenance!

  • Mesh or mindfulness goes a long way. Using mesh filters or other traps for sink drains can keep foreign materials out of your plumbing. Keep an eye on what you’re bringing to your kitchen or bathroom sink. If it’s something that can clog, try to safely break it down.
  • Know what shouldn’t be flushed. Things like baby wipes, cooking grease and potato peels aren’t supposed to be in the drain. Dispose of them properly to keep your plumbing in the best possible condition.
  • Always try your trusty plunger. Even if a leak seems bad, your plunger is a simple and effective tool. Give your plunger a go before you call for professional help.
  • Other home remedies can help. Did you know there’s a clogged drain home remedy? You can try to flush your drain with baking soda and vinegar. We don’t recommend using store-bought liquid drain openers, since these toxic chemicals can corrode your pipes.

Tried these tips but still have a problem? Call us at 510-343-9841 for quick and affordable drain cleaning in The Bay Area.

Get in Touch with Contra Costa Heating & AC for Fast and Effective Plumbers in The Bay Area

Keeping your home’s plumbing in good condition is important to everyone at Contra Costa Heating & AC. Our plumbers are committed to providing you with the best plumbing service in The Bay Area. If you need quality drain cleaning services, we’ve got you covered.

We have the tools and training to get the job done right. For pro plumbing services, call Contra Costa Heating & AC today. Get in touch to request more info or to schedule an appointment. Call us today at 510-343-9841!