If the only thing you knew about clogged drains came from commercials for clog removal products, you probably wouldn’t worry when you experience a clog in your own home. After all, on TV, they look like a minor inconvenience.
The truth is that clogged drains are much more serious than that, and unclogging them properly is more difficult than simply pouring something into your sink. Here are some things you should know about dealing with clogged drains.
Proper Handling of Drain Cleaners
Although the bottle carries all the necessary warnings, homeowners often mishandle drain cleaners. The product does not look dangerous, but anyone using these products for unclogging drains should know that drain cleaners are very acidic and can damage your eyes and skin if you do not handle them very carefully. They can also damage your flooring, cabinets, and other surfaces in your bathroom if the product is spilled or splattered.
Health Issues with Slow Drains
When a drain is completely blocked off, it’s time to take action. However, slow drains that still work can still cause problems. Drain flies and other pests can inhabit the dirty water that lingers in the drain. When the clog becomes severe enough to block the entire drain, wastewater can back up into your home, leaving untreated sewage running out on your floors and even dripping down from upper floors. Quickly unclogging drains will help prevent this unsanitary situation.
Structural Damage Caused by Clogged Drains
Sometimes we ignore slow drains, thinking it’s not a big deal as long as the water eventually goes out. However, normal overflows of even small amounts of water can slowly damage floor coverings, subflooring, and structural components, giving you an unpleasant surprise when you finally detect the damage. This costly outcome can only be avoided if you work toward unclogging slow drains before they cause backups.
The Need for Expert Help
Many clogs can be opened up with homeowner products in the early stages. Total clogs or those that affect more than one drain will call for the help of a professional. Unclogging them will require specialized tools and techniques beyond what is available to you, so it’s important to call a contractor as soon as possible so that the clog can be properly diagnosed, located, and treated before any further damage can occur result. Trying to disassemble pipes or perform other steps to access a clog can be dangerous, messy, and very expensive.
The early signs of a clogged drain can be subtle. Water may run out more slowly, or you may detect an odor near the drain. In time, the clog will become obvious, and you’ll need to make a plan for unclogging it as soon as possible. You can get your drains working properly again with quick and proper action without damaging your home or creating a health hazard for your family. Be alert to clogged drains and act quickly when you see them.
