Clogged drains are an annoying problem, but one that most Oceanside, CA homeowners can deal with themselves. There are many ways to clear a clogged kitchen sink, shower, or toilet. One of the easiest ways to clear a clogged drain is to use a chemical drain cleaner.

There are a number of chemical drain cleaners on the market. Many of these cleaners use blends of sodium hydroxide, sodium metasilicate, and sodium hypochlorite (bleach). They work by creating a chemical reaction in the drain that generates heat and breaks down the organic materials (hair, food, grease, etc.) often responsible for a clog.

The Problem With Chemical Drain Cleaners

The problem with most of the chemicals used in these cleaners is that they are highly toxic. They can be dangerous if they come into contact with the eyes, mouth, or bare skin. The fumes can cause respiratory irritation. Accidental ingestion can be fatal.

In addition, prolonged exposure to these chemicals can cause damage to your pipes.

Natural Alternatives to Chemical Drain Cleaners

Fortunately, there are alternatives to chemical drain cleaners that don’t endanger your health or your pipes.

One of the easiest is a baking soda/vinegar mix. Simply pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the affected drain, followed by 1/2 cup vinegar. Let the mixture sit in the drain for an hour, then pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. Turn on the hot water tap and let it run until the drain is cleared.

Lemon juice, salt, and borax can also be combined with baking soda for use as a natural ingredient drain cleaner.

Plungers, Drain Snakes, and Other Tools

Drain snakes and plungers are two simple tools that are effective at clearing drains. Make sure you use the right kind of plunger – there are toilet plungers and sink plungers. You can buy a drain snake at the store or make one yourself by straightening out a wire clothes hanger and crimping one end into a small hook.

If these methods don’t work, you may need professional help. Plumbers have video inspection equipment to pinpoint the location of the clog and hydro jetting tools that use high-pressure jets of water to blast away even the most stubborn of clogs.

Stubborn Clog? Call 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration

If a plunger, drain snake, or cleaner isn’t getting rid of that stubborn clog, you may need professional help. A persistent clog could be caused by a damaged pipe or even a root intrusion into your sewer line. Call 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration. Our team of licensed Oceanside, CA plumbers have been providing outstanding plumbing services to home and business owners in Oceanside, CA, and surrounding communities since 2012. We’re available 24/7 for any plumbing emergency; in most cases, we can arrive on site within an hour of your call.

You can contact 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration through our website or call us at 866-437-0205 to schedule a visit from an Oceanside, CA plumbing professional.