Drains - TKO Plumbing Services

After a long day, it’s easy to fall into autopilot mode while cleaning up, casually flushing things away without a second thought. But some of these actions — like scraping coffee grounds into the kitchen sink drain or flushing kitty litter down the toilet — can lead to costly plumbing issues. In fact, many common items can cause clogged pipes, disrupt the water supply, or even damage the plumbing system. To keep your drains clear and your pipes running smoothly, it’s essential to know what you can and can’t put down the drain. Here’s a handy guide to help you avoid the pitfalls of improper drain use.

Things That Can Go Down the Drain

While some items are strictly off-limits for your drains, certain things can go down the drain without causing problems. Here are a few:

Small Food Particles (in Moderation)

If you have a garbage disposal, small food particles are usually safe, as long as they’re cut up into manageable sizes. Foods like soft vegetables or small fruit scraps can go down the disposal with plenty of cold water to help wash them through. However, large pieces should go in the compost bin or trashcan instead.

Dish Soap & Mild Household Cleaners

Liquid dish soap and mild household cleaners are safe for your drain, as long as they’re biodegradable and used sparingly. Keep in mind that harsh chemicals can cause erosion in pipes over time, so avoid pouring highly acidic or alkaline cleaners (such as store-bought drain cleaners) down the drain.

Toilet Paper (in Reasonable Quantities)

Toilet paper is designed to break down quickly in water, so it’s safe to flush in small amounts. However, using excessive amounts can still lead to clogged drains, especially in older plumbing systems. Help your kids understand how much toilet paper they should be using on each go to prevent unexpected issues.

Additionally, it’s helpful to note that even the type of toilet paper you use could affect how well your toilet flushes. If you notice your toilet is sluggish to flush, it could be that the paper ply is too heavy. Try using paper with fewer plies and see if that resolves the issue of a sluggish toilet.

Baking Soda & Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar can help clean your drains naturally by breaking down grease buildup. They’re a safer option for drain cleaning than harsh chemicals and can help keep things flowing smoothly without harming your pipes.

Things That Can’t Go Down the Drain

Do you know that there are some items that should never be put down the drain? Avoid flushing the following items to protect your plumbing system from clogged pipes, leaks, and other problems:

Coffee Grounds

One of the top culprits of kitchen sink clogs is coffee grounds. They don’t dissolve in water, and when they collect in the drain, they can create a sludge that clogs pipes over time. Instead of tossing coffee grounds in the drain, try composting them or using them in the garden as a fertilizer.

Grease, Oil, & Fat

When poured down the drain, these substances cool and solidify, leading to blockages that are difficult to remove. Instead of putting them in your kitchen sink drain, let the grease or oil cool in a container, then dispose of it in the trash.

Kitty Litter

Although some cat litters are marketed as flushable, it’s best never to flush kitty litter down the toilet. Most litters contain materials that can easily clog pipes, and some contain harmful bacteria that can contaminate the water supply. Disposing of litter in a biodegradable bag is a much safer alternative.

Paper Towels & Tissues

Paper towels and tissues don’t break down as easily as toilet paper, so they can quickly lead to clogged pipes. Even though they may seem like a similar product, they’re designed for absorption and can clog the toilet or any drain.

Flushable Wipes

Despite being labeled as “flushable,” these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper does. Instead, they often clump together in pipes, creating blockages that can damage plumbing systems and lead to costly repairs. Always dispose of flushable wipes in the trash to keep your drains clear.

Feminine Hygiene Products

Tampons, pads, and other feminine hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet. These items are not designed to disintegrate in water, so they often become lodged in pipes, leading to stubborn and costly blockages.

Produce Stickers

It may seem insignificant, but produce stickers can cause problems in household drains. These small stickers don’t dissolve in water and can clog pipes, get stuck on filters, or even make their way to water treatment facilities, where they can cause mechanical issues. Always remove produce stickers before washing fruits and vegetables.

Medications

Flushing medications down the drain can introduce chemicals into the water supply that may harm aquatic life and potentially impact public health. Instead, dispose of unused medications at designated drop-off locations, such as pharmacies or community disposal events.

Eggshells

Eggshells are often believed to help clean garbage disposals, but they actually do more harm than good. When ground up, eggshells create a sand-like residue that can clog pipes and damage the disposal blades. It’s best to throw eggshells in the compost bin.

Clear Your Drains With Professional Drain Cleaning

Knowing what can and can’t go down the drain is essential to avoid plumbing headaches and keep your home’s drains clear. If you’ve got a clogged drain, suspect a bigger plumbing issue, or just want advice on maintaining your plumbing system with timely repairs, preventative drain cleaning, and backflow devices, the professionals at TKO Plumbing Services are here to help. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can address all your plumbing needs.

Clogs are among the most common plumbing issues homeowners face, which makes sense when you consider the fact that drains are constantly exposed to a variety of substances that can build up over time. Whether it’s the kitchen sink refusing to drain, a shower filling up with water, or a toilet that just won’t flush, it can be frustrating dealing with persistent clogs.

While it might be tempting to tackle the problem yourself, it’s often best to leave drain cleaning to the professionals. Plumbers have access to a range of specialized equipment, such as plungers, drain snakes, and hydro-jetting machines, that can effectively clear even the most stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes.

Basic Tools Plumbers Use to Unclog Drains

It’s common for homeowners to wonder, “What do plumbers use to unclog drains?” After all, they’re the professionals, so they surely have more advanced equipment than the everyday homeowner, right? While we absolutely do, we also keep a number of basic tools in our arsenal. These plungers, drain snakes, wrenches, and pliers are essential in tackling minor clogs and maintaining the overall health of your plumbing system.

Plungers

The plunger is the go-to tool for many plumbers. It’s a simple yet effective tool that creates a vacuum effect to dislodge clogs. Plungers come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific types of drains. For instance, a cup plunger is ideal for flat surfaces like sinks, while a flange plunger is better suited for toilets. By placing the plunger over the drain and pushing and pulling, plumbers can create enough force to loosen the clog and get the water flowing again.

Drain Snakes (Augers)

Drain snakes, also known as augers, are long, flexible tools that can reach deep into pipes to remove clogs. There are several types of drain snakes, including handheld snakes for smaller drains and motorized snakes for larger pipes. Plumbers insert the snake into the drain and twist it to break up or retrieve the clog. This tool is particularly useful for clogs that are too far down the pipe for a plunger to reach.

Pipe Wrenches and Pliers

Sometimes, plumbers need to dismantle parts of the plumbing system to access and remove clogs. Pipe wrenches and pliers are essential tools for this task. They allow plumbers to loosen and tighten pipe connections, making it easier to clean out blockages directly from the pipes.

Advanced Drain Cleaning Equipment

While basic tools can handle many common clogs, more severe or persistent blockages may require advanced equipment. These tools allow plumbers to diagnose and address complex issues effectively.

Drain Cameras

One of the most innovative tools in a plumber’s arsenal is the drain camera. The camera is attached to a flexible cable and inserted into the drain, sending live footage to a monitor. This technology helps plumbers identify the type and location of the clog, as well as any damage to the pipes, enabling them to determine the best course of action.

Hydro-Jetting Machines

Hydro-jetting is a powerful method used to clear stubborn clogs and clean pipes. This technique involves using a machine that blasts high-pressure water through the pipes, effectively cutting through grease, roots, and other obstructions. Hydro-jetting is not only effective at removing clogs but also helps clean the inside of the pipes, reducing the likelihood of future blockages. However, this method requires professional expertise, as the high pressure can potentially damage pipes if not handled correctly.

Steps Plumbers Take to Unclog Drains

Understanding how plumbers unclog drains can help homeowners appreciate the expertise involved in the process. Here are the general steps a plumber might take to resolve a clogged drain in your home:

Assessment: The first step is assessing the situation. Plumbers will ask questions and may conduct a video inspection to understand the severity and location of the clog.
Selection of Tools: Based on the assessment, the plumber will choose the appropriate tools and methods. For minor clogs, a plunger or drain snake might suffice. For more severe blockages, advanced equipment like hydro-jetting machines might be necessary.
Clog Removal: The plumber will then proceed to remove the clog using the selected tools. This might involve plunging, snaking, or hydro-jetting, depending on the situation.
Testing and Cleanup: Once the clog is removed, plumbers test the drain to ensure it’s flowing properly. They’ll also clean up any mess created during the process, leaving your home as tidy as they found it.
Preventive Advice: Finally, plumbers often offer advice on how to prevent future clogs, such as using drain strainers or being mindful of what goes down the drain.

Techniques for Unclogging Different Types of Drains

Different types of drains often require specialized approaches due to their unique characteristics and varying susceptibilities to clogs. Here’s how a professional plumber typically tackles clogs in various drain types:

Kitchen Sink Drains

Kitchen sinks are prone to clogs due to grease, food particles, and soap buildup. Plumbers often start with a plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog. If that doesn’t work, they might use a drain snake to reach further down the pipe. In cases where grease buildup is severe, hydro-jetting may be used to thoroughly clean the pipes and restore normal flow.

Bathroom Sink and Shower Drains

Hair and soap scum are the main culprits behind bathroom clogs. Plumbers often use a drain snake to break up hair clogs, pulling them out of the drain. For showers, removing the drain cover and manually cleaning out debris might be necessary before using a snake. If the clog persists, they may use a motorized drain snake or a hydro-jetter.

Toilet Drains

Toilet clogs are typically caused by excess toilet paper or non-flushable items. Plumbers use a flange plunger to try and clear the blockage first. If that doesn’t work, a toilet auger (a type of drain snake specifically designed for toilets) is used. This tool allows plumbers to reach deeper into the toilet’s plumbing to dislodge the clog. In more severe cases, the toilet might need to be removed to access and clear the blockage directly.

Clogged Drain? Call the Pros at TKO for Expert Services!

If you’re facing persistent drain issues or want to ensure your plumbing system is in top condition, don’t hesitate to contact TKO Plumbing Services. Our Marietta plumbing services can address any concern you may have about your toilet, sink drain, or tub and shower. Schedule an appointment today, and count on our drain cleaning services to save you time and provide long-lasting results that keep your piping running smoothly.