How To Fix A Clogged Drain: DIY And Expert Steps

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One of the most common problems that a homeowner will face is knowing how to fix a clogged drain. There are a number of products on the market to help you out, and if all else fails, you can call a plumbing expert.

Chemicals: The first line of defense
In the past several years, drain cleaners have become more powerful. They are designed to dissolve the grit and grime that builds up in your drain and push various materials down through the system. Just keep in mind that if your first attempt to use a chemical doesn’t work, don’t try again by pouring a different type down the drain. Mixing chemicals can be toxic.

Snake that clog away

For sinks and showers, where matted hair is a common issue, a snake can work wonders. Slight variants exist depending on where your problem is, but they all work the same and are easy to use. You simply guide the snake (technically called an “auger”) down the drain to push or pull out whatever is blocking the pipe. Some snakes include a twisting action that allows you to twirl hair and other material together and easily pull it out. For toilets, there is the closet auger, which is more rigid.

Experts know their stuff
Although every homeowner should know how to fix a clogged drain, there are times when a job is just too big for non-experts to handle. That’s when it’s time to call a professional, who will have access to  tools that you may not, including the tools needed to take apart any pipes to better reach a problem area, and even an electric auger for really tough jobs. They are also well-trained in ensuring that no damage occurs to your pipes. For this reason alone, you may want to call a professional.

If you need any further advice or information on how to fix a clogged drain, or if the job is too complex for you to handle yourself, please contact the friendly professionals at Apollo Home Heating Cooling & Plumbing. Our family-owned and -operated company has been serving Cincinnati and its surrounding areas since 1910.

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"Ernie & Mike did a superb job on my new furnace and A/C installation. Despite having more than a day’s work to do, they came in and stayed until the job was done. They were organized, efficient, and protected the rest of the house well. Got both furnace and A/C installed the same day. Ernie was courteous, informative, and clearly knew his job better than anyone I’ve encountered before. The units look so good guests now get The Tour of our new system. Apollo is clearly not a fly-by-night company. I would recommend them to anyone in need of a new furnace and/or A/C."
- Jerry A.
"I called Apollo because of a water leak I thought I had in our upstairs shower going into the kitchen. Robbie came and assured me everything was fine & looked at all the other plumbing. He ended up changing a few pipes for our washer & clearing a drain. He was very nice & knowledgeable with all my questions. I ended up signing up for the care plan & was very happy with my service."
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