Slow drains are not as bad as clogged drains. That should be obvious. When you’re trying to wash dishes or brush your teeth, it’s way easier to use a drain that still gets rid of wastewater, even if it’s slow. Compare that to completely clogged up drains, that’s a problem that requires more immediate attention.
But don’t get things twisted–slow drains are still a problem that need to be fixed. That drain might not have reached a full-blown clog yet, but it’s definitely on its way there. We’ll discuss some great DIY ways to deal with a clogged drain, but nothing comes close to the effectiveness and speed of professional drain cleaning in Cedar Falls.
So, if you’re looking to get this taken care of quickly, you can start by scheduling an appointment with us. Call now to book your first drain inspection! Otherwise, keep reading.
How Clogs Form
Your drains are only designed to take water. Sure, wastewater can include lots of contaminants when it goes down the drain–but it’s primarily water that takes it all the way from your kitchen or bathroom to the waste water treatment plant. Water is the key ingredient.
Anything that’s not primarily water, from grease to solid products like paper towels are not supposed to go down the drain. It doesn’t matter if they’re only in small amounts every once in a while, they can’t fully flow at the same rate and pressure that water can. Not only that, it’s cold in those pipes and grease will quickly solidify and cause a strong clog that will ruin the flow of your drain.
The Difference Between a Slow Drain and a Clogged Drain
A clogged drain is easy to spot. Nothing is getting through, so you can either try to plunge and snake it yourself, or call a plumber. But a slow drain is a clog that is beginning to form and might be a little harder to notice. Your family might still be using that sink even though it takes several minutes to fully drain.
A slow drain is harder to notice but it’s still just as much of a problem to fix as a clog. When you detect your drains slowing down, it’s time for action!
DIY Drain Cleaning Tools
First start with some of the most reliable tools that plumbers use–drain snakes and plungers.
A drain snake can be lowered into your drain and dislodge whatever clog is forming. It might take a bit of elbow grease and some careful usage, but they can be great at piercing through stubborn clogging materials and freeing up your drain again.
When a drain snake fails, a plunger can be an awesome tool. Plungers use water and pressure to alleviate most stubborn clogs. But plungers are less effective if the drain is slow instead of completely clogged, so make sure you try snaking the drain first!
When in Doubt: Schedule a Drain Cleaning Appointment!
A slow drain is still a good reason to call for a plumber. It might seem like you can wait a little bit longer until the drain clogs but that could be weeks and eventually your family will get tired of using that slow drain.
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! To set up an appointment in the Cedar Falls area, give us a call at the number above, email customerservice@daltonphc.com or schedule an appointment online.