Clogged drains are among the most frequently encountered plumbing issues for homeowners. From slow-draining sinks and standing shower water to slow drainage in tubs and showers, clogs can quickly become an annoyance if left unaddressed promptly. While it can sometimes be possible to resolve minor blockages on one’s own, when insufficient solutions have been tried out themselves, calling in a professional drain cleaning service may provide longer-term relief and ensure solutions.

In this article, we’ll look at both DIY methods for unclogging drains and professional help to handle them. Regardless of which approach appeals more strongly, knowing its pros will allow for informed decision-making when confronted with blocked drains.

Before taking steps to address clogged drains yourself or seek professional assistance, it’s essential to first identify what leads to them in the first place. 

Common Cause Of Clogged Drains

• Hair: Clog-forming debris such as hair is an ongoing threat in shower and bathroom sink drains, often creating dense clogs over time.
• Grease And Fat: Drains in kitchens can become blocked with grease, fat and food debris from our diets, even with hot water flushed through them temporarily to clear away debris; however, over time this residue solidifies further down into pipes leading to blockages that become impossible to navigate around.
• Soap Scum: Over time, soap residue can build up inside pipes when combined with debris, particularly over time. 
• Foreign Objects: Cotton swabs, wipes, and even jewelry may accidentally end up making their way down drains into drains, leading to blockages that prevent the proper functioning of these drains.
• Root Invasion: Tree roots have the power to enter underground pipes, potentially leading to serious blockages of sewer lines and leading to major disruption in services.

DIY Solutions To Clear Clogged Drains

Many homeowners turn to homemade solutions when faced with slow drains; provided the issue seems minor enough, these techniques may prove quick, cost-effective, and safe solutions.

1. Plunging

A plunger can often help resolve clogs in sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. To use one effectively, make sure there’s enough water in the bowl or toilet tank to cover its cup before positioning the plunger over the drain and pressing firmly down onto it to create an air seal around its center point. Once in position, repeatedly push and pull to create suction to loosen obstructions, which may dislodge them from within your plumbing.

Plunging can often be effective for clearing minor blockages caused by hair or food debris. Furthermore, this technique makes an excellent starting point before proceeding to more advanced techniques.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

A natural and eco-friendly way of clearing minor drain clogs naturally is by mixing baking soda and vinegar. Pour about half a cup of baking soda down your blocked drain followed by equal portions of vinegar to create a bubbling effect that loosens debris while dissolving clogs – let it set for 15-30 minutes, and flush away with hot water after!

This method can be particularly effective at clearing away small kitchen clogs caused by grease or soap scum build-up while being relatively safe for most plumbing systems compared with harsh chemical solutions.

3. Boiling Water

One of the easiest and fastest ways to clear minor clogs in kitchen sinks is with boiling water, especially for grease, oil, or soap scum clogs. Slowly pour boiling water down each drain, allowing heat to break down any blockages; just be wary when using this technique on PVC pipes due to excessive temperatures causing potential damage.

Conclusion

DIY solutions may work to clear minor clogged drain issues; tools like plungers, drain snakes, and natural cleaners such as essential oils may even work to loosen small blockages. But for more persistent issues or multiple blocked drains that persist over time, it’s advisable to contact professional drain cleaning services, as professionals can not only quickly clear clogs but also provide long-term solutions that keep plumbing systems in great condition.

Opting between DIY solutions or professional assistance depends on the severity and ease of tackling a clog, along with your personal level of comfort with taking on such issues yourself. In any event, having expert assistance ensures your drains will stay clear so your plumbing system continues running without issue.