Clogged Drain Hacks: Myths vs. Reality

The sense of dread that wells up when you unexpectedly encounter a clogged drain is unparalleled. You may rush to Google quick solutions, desperate to find a way to fix the problem. The internet is a treasure trove of life hacks and so-called solutions, and it can be pretty challenging to figure out which tips and tricks are actually useful, and which are myths. Today, we'll be discussing some of the most common clogged drain hacks and using our years of experience to tell you what's really going on. 

Pouring salt and water down a drain can clear a clogged drain. MYTH. While salt and water can help clean your drain and prevent future clogs, pouring salt and water down your drain will not do anything for an existing clog. It's simply not powerful enough to dislodge a clog. While we do recommend clog prevention methods, the idea that salt and water can solve a clogged drain situation is false. 

Baking soda and vinegar will dissolve whatever's blocking the drain. MYTH. Baking soda and vinegar will react together, and the chemical reaction creates a lot of bubbles and fizz. Do not be deceived: this dramatic reaction can make it look like it's working, but that's not true. Baking soda is a base on the pH scale, and vinegar is an acid. Essentially, what's happening is that the two substances are neutralizing each other, and it doesn't really solve the issue.

Drano is the best way to clear drains. MYTH. MYTH. MYTH. This is perhaps the biggest, most destructive myth of all. It's true that Drano will absolutely clear your drains; this is because Drano is an extremely abrasive chemical. The reason it's a bad idea to use Drano is because it can also damage the inner coat of your pipes. Repeatedly using Drano can damage your pipes and cause far worse problems down the road; it's a quick-fix solution that can cause more damage than good. 

Hot water and dish soap can open your drains back up. TRUE. Among these common life hacks, this one is the golden suggestion. Many clogs are FOG clogs--that's when fat, oil, and grease build up and block the drain. Hot water will soften these fats through heat, and dish soap works as a detergent that can bind to the fatty molecules and allow them to be washed away. It's the same mechanism at work when you wash dishes: the soap binds to the fat and carries it away with the water. 

If using hot water and dish soap doesn't help, it's time to call in a professional. Don't risk damaging your pipes and sewer system for an internet hack. At ASAP Septic, we offer inspections for particularly stubborn clogs and drain line clearing or hydro jet cleaning to make sure your pipes are clean as a whistle. We serve Boise, Meridian, Kuna, Nampa, Caldwell, Emmett, Middleton, Melba, McCall, and surrounding areas. Give us a call at (208) 991-7184 for more information today!