Dump a couple of teaspoons of baking soda into your clogged drain, followed by one half cup of vinegar. This will create a fizzing action that may cause a fizz-like eruption. This is normal. This fizzing action may help to break the clog up and get things moving in your drain once again.
- Pour half a box (or about 1 cup) of baking soda followed by a half cup of white vinegar down the affected drain. Stop up the drain and wait half an hour before flushing with hot (or boiling) water. This tried and true method of unclogging a drain is not only septic-safe, but it is also perfectly safe for the plumbing inside your home.
Can you use sink Unblocker with a septic tank?
Avoid Most Types of Drain Cleaner Foaming or solid drain cleaners can disable your septic tank and will probably cause damage. Do not attempt to clean your septic pipe or septic tank.
How do you clean drains without chemicals?
Using a solution of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water – For more stubborn clogs, a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water may do the trick. Because vinegar is an acid and baking soda is a base, mixing the two will cause a chemical reaction that will create pressure and possibly dislodge the clog.
Which Drano is safe for septic systems?
For preventive drain cleaning, you can use Drano® Max Build-Up Remover in drains, toilets and even septic systems.
Is vinegar safe for septic systems?
Will baking soda hurt a septic system? Baking soda and other common household solutions such as vinegar are not harmful to your septic system. Harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia can disrupt the good bacteria in your septic tank and should not be used as part of a septic treatment.
What cleaning products are safe to use with a septic tank?
Vinegar (white vinegar and apple cider vinegar), Borax, OxiClean, and baking soda are some products that can be used to clean very well and be septic-system safe. Oxidized bleaches are also a less hazardous alternative to chlorine bleach.
Can you put bleach in a septic tank?
Toilet bowl cleaners and bleach/chlorine based cleaners should be avoided or minimized. Look for chlorine bleach or chemical sodium hypochlorite on product labels. Using these products could result in your septic tank backing up, creating costly repairs, contaminating your drinking water, odors and much more.
Can vinegar and baking soda damage pipes?
Vinegar and baking soda together causes an explosive effect, which seemingly removes clogs and obstructions. However, this explosive reaction continues within your pipes which can easily destroy protective coatings on your pipelines and remove any chances of the clog naturally disrupting itself.
Does apple cider vinegar clean drains?
Unclogging drains Using ACV, however, is a natural solution to unclog drains (that really works!). Recipe: Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into your drain, then follow with 1 cup of apple cider vinegar. After a few minutes, flush the drain with hot water. After 5 minutes, flush the drain again with cold water.
What is the best homemade drain cleaner?
Mix 1/2 cup table salt and 1/2 cup baking soda together, and pour down drain. Let sit for about 30 minutes (or overnight if it’s a tough clog), and follow with a pot of boiling water.
Can you use Liquid Plumr in a septic system?
Yes. It’s safe to use Liquid-Plumr ® products if you have a septic system. The ingredients degrade rapidly and will not harm the bacteria in your tank.
Is it safe to pour boiling water down the drain?
Do NOT pour boiling water down your sink or toilet. This can melt PVC piping and pipe seals, causing serious damage. In addition, using boiling water to clear a clogged toilet can melt the wax ring around the toilet, or even crack the porcelain bowl, leading to a pricey trip to your favorite hardware store.
Is hydrogen peroxide safe for septic tanks?
Will Hydrogen Peroxide harm my septic system? No – Septic systems rely upon “aerobic bacteria” which thrive in an oxygenated environment. Unlike chlorine/bleach, Hydrogen Peroxide adds oxygen instead of removing it.
Can you use hydrogen peroxide in a septic system?
There are many natural options for say, disinfectants, that exist which will not harm a septic system. For some of the stronger natural disinfectants such as Hydrogen Peroxide and Thyme Oil, their strength will still require them to be diluted with water before being introduced to the system. 5
How do I get good bacteria in my septic tank?
Flush a packet of brewer’s dry yeast down one toilet on the bottom floor of your house once a month. The yeast will help add “good” bacteria to your septic tank and break down waste.
Septic-Safe Methods for Unclogging a Drain
A clogged drain is a source of frustration for any homeowner, but when a clogged drain occurs in a home with a septic system, one of the most pressing concerns is how to clear the drain without causing damage to the septic system itself. Many homeowners’ first instinct is to grab for a chemical drain cleaner, but if you have a septic system, these harsh chemicals should be the very last thing you use to unclog a drain to avoid damaging it. Drain unclogging procedures that are safe for septic systems are discussed in this section.
Why Chemical Drain Cleaners are Bad for Septic Systems
Despite the fact that chemical drain cleaners are appealing, they are a poor choice for unclogging clogged drains in houses that have septic systems, according to the American Chemical Society. The principle behind chemical drain cleaners is straightforward: send harsh chemicals down the drain, and the clog will be eaten away by the chemicals until it is tiny enough to flow through the pipes. The chemicals are physically melting the blockage away from the pipes. Chemical drain cleaners are among the household cleaners that are prohibited from being used with septic systems due to the presence of sodium hydroxide, sometimes known as lye, in one of its essential constituents.
All of these chemicals are not only detrimental to the bacterial environment of the septic system, but they are also very corrosive and will eat away at the tank’s structural integrity as well.
Septic-Safe Method1: Unclogging a Drain with Boiling Water
Sometimes the most straightforward option is the most effective. Small blockages in pipes may frequently be cleaned by gently pouring boiling water down the drain, which is quite effective. This approach is very effective for unclogging obstructions produced by oil, soap, or even tiny clumps of human hair. It is essential that the water is boiling for this procedure to be effective – not just hot, but boiling hot. This strategy, on the other hand, necessitates considerable caution. It is possible that pouring hot water upon a porcelain sink will result in the sink cracking.
Boiling water has the additional effect of softening the joints in PVC pipes, and as a result, we do not advocate using this procedure with PVC pipes.
Septic-Safe Method2: Unclogging a Drain with VinegarBaking Soda
In certain cases, the most straightforward option is the best. Small obstructions in pipes may frequently be unclogged by gently pouring boiling water down the drain. Clogs produced by oil, soap, or even little clumps of hair respond particularly well to this procedure. It is essential that the water is boiling for this procedure to be effective – not just hot, but steaming hot. A certain amount of caution must be used with this procedure, though. When you pour boiling water upon a porcelain sink, it is possible for the sink to break.
It’s important to dump the water down the drain if you have a porcelain sink to avoid clogging it. Due to the fact that boiling water might soften the joints in PVC pipes, we do not advocate using this procedure when dealing with PVC pipes.
Septic-Safe Method3: Unclogging a Drain Manually
After trying the first two techniques of cleaning a blocked drain and failing miserably, it may be necessary to don some dishwashing gloves and personally remove the obstruction. Carefully dislodge the clog with a plunger, a plastic drain cleaning tool, or a heavy-duty plumber’s snake to either loosen it enough to allow it to flow through the home’s plumbing or completely remove it from the pipes. The following methods should only be used as a last option, prior to hiring a plumber, and you must exercise caution to ensure that you do not mistakenly harm the afflicted drains by driving a snake into or out of the plumbing system.
Drain Maintenance
One effective method of dealing with blocked drains is to assist in preventing them from occurring in the first place. Fats, oils, and greases, which are responsible for a large number of kitchen drain blockages, should never be thrown down the drain. The fact that hair is the most prevalent cause of bathroom blockages suggests that using protective screens that prevent hair from entering the drain is a smart idea. A clogged drain that does not clear using these septic-safe procedures may indicate that your septic system is in need of repair or replacement.
To book a service visit, please contact us right away.
Septic System Life Hacks With Vinegar
Septic System Life Hacks Using VinegarIf you’re a homeowner who has a septic system, or even if you just want to keep the plumbing in your home running smoothly, we’ve compiled a fast list of septic system life hacks that you can use using vinegar to keep your system running smoothly. You can clean and unclog your drains with these inexpensive procedures while also maintaining your septic tank. If you haven’t already heard, chemical drain cleaners purchased at the shop can actually do more harm than good to your septic system.
You should always call one of our specialists if you need to have your septic system inspected or treated.
Cleaning The Dishwasher
Even the dishwasher need a thorough cleaning every now and again. Simply place 1 cup of baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher and run the machine for the whole cycle. Thus, soap accumulation on the inner machinery as well as on the glassware will be lessened. This should be done once a month.
Unclog Your Drain
This method is intended for use with slow-moving drains and mild obstructions. If you’re experiencing a severe drain clog, we recommend that you contact one of our knowledgeable specialists. In order to do this septic system life hack, you need need 1/2 cup baking soda and 1 cup white vinegar.
Pour the baking soda down the drain and allow it to settle for a few minutes before continuing. After that, add the vinegar. Allow it to rest for a further 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bubbles have subsided. Then, flush the drain with hot water to clear it out.
Deodorizing Garbage Disposals
First and foremost, we should definitely point out that having a trash disposal in a property with a septic tank is not a smart idea in most cases. Garbage disposals are extremely hazardous to the health of your septic system, and they may cause blockages and backups in your system. In the event that you do have a garbage disposal, there are a variety of methods for keeping it smelling fresh. In thisGuide to Garbage Disposals, you may learn how to grind citrus peels with ice cubes, for example.
In this case, we recommend putting 1/4 cup baking soda in the disposal and running it for a few seconds to activate it.
After that, add 1 cup of vinegar to the mixture.
The chemical reaction will deodorize the drain while also dislodging any food particles that may have become lodged in the disposal as a result of using this procedure.
Drain Maintenance
This following hack is intended to be used as a preventative maintenance method for the drains in your home on a regular basis. Keep in mind that regular maintenance and prevention are half of the battle when it comes to keeping your septic system healthy. If you’re experiencing any severe difficulties, please contact us immediately via telephone. Don’t wait for an issue to worsen before taking action. In a similar manner to the unclogging approach described above, you may add 1/2 cup baking soda followed by 1 cup vinegar to your drains to help keep them free and clear.
If you run out of baking soda, you may also pour white vinegar down the drain, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then flush with hot water once a week if you are running low on baking soda supplies.
Bonus Tip:DIY Cleaning Products
Do you have a problem with gnats or ants in your kitchen, or do you think you could have a problem? Fill a third of the way with vinegar in an empty spray bottle. Fill the remainder of the container with water and a few drops of dish soap. It is possible to clean your counter tops with this inexpensive combination while also keeping the pests away! Use these septic system life hacks with vinegar for routine maintenance and to unclog small obstructions in your system. If you’re experiencing major problems, such as septic system backups or severe drain obstructions, give our highly trained specialists at Lapin Services a call right once.
Please contact Lapin Services if you require assistance with your plumbing, septic tank, drainfield, or commercial issues.
What Can Unclog a Drain & Be Safe for the Septic System?
Do you have a problem with gnats or ants in your kitchen, or do you think you might? Fill one-third of the way with vinegar in an empty spray bottle. Dish soap and a few drops of dishwashing liquid should be added to the remaining water. It is possible to clean your counter tops with this inexpensive combination while also keeping the pests at bay. You may use these septic system life hacks with vinegar for normal maintenance as well as to clear small obstructions. If you’re experiencing major problems, such as septic system backups or severe drain obstructions, give our highly trained specialists at Lapin Services a call right away!
Please contact Lapin Services if you require assistance with your plumbing, septic tank, drainfield, or other commercial issues.
Drano and Liquid Plumr
When confronted with a clogged drain, the majority of people immediately grab for the chemical drain cleaners. This is not always a smart idea if you have a septic system installed. An effective septic tank is fundamentally a bacterial ecosystem, and maintaining a healthy mix of bacteria is critical to the process of decomposition of organic waste. Septic tank bacteria balance is disrupted mostly as a result of chemical exposure, which includes numerous drain cleaners and other household products.
All Drano products are septic-safe, and Drano Max Build-Up Remover is intended to be used on a monthly basis to replace the bacteria in your septic system’s biological filter.
Natural Drain Cleaners
Using a plunger to attempt to unclog a drain is one of the safest methods of doing so. It is non-invasive and frequently effective in clearing tiny obstructions. The use of a plunger while dealing with a chemical drain cleaner, even if it’s a septic safe drain cleaner, should be avoided at all costs since it can cause the product to splash back on you. Using a plunger is recommended before using a drain cleaner, but it is not required. Many homeowners are adamant about avoiding using a septic-safe Drano or Liquid Plumr solution for a variety of reasons.
An all-natural septic safe drain cleaner that is popular for more significant blockages is a combination of baking soda and vinegar.
In a similar fashion to a scientific experiment, pouring 1/4 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup vinegar down a drain can result in a fizzing reaction that will unclog the drain.
Maintenance to Prevent Clogged Drains
You can do some simple maintenance on your septic system to maintain it in good working order and eliminate the need to unclog your drains. This will prevent blockages from accumulating in your pipes. The most straightforward approach to accomplish this is to avoid flushing anything down the drain that might clog a pipe, such as grease and oils. Because hair is a typical source of clogged drains, it’s a good idea to install protective screens over your shower and tub drains to collect any hair that may fall through.
For those who believe they will be unable to function without their disposal, there are various kinds on the market that are safe for use with septic systems.
As a result, regular home items such as bleach and certain soaps and detergents will aid to maintain the essential balance that can be thrown off by these products.
4 Simple Ways to Unclog a Drain Without Harmful Chemicals
We may receive a portion of the proceeds from sales of things that are linked to on this website. Is the water in your sink or bath tub taking a long time to drain? You despise using foul, harsh chemicals to clear your drains, and we understand. When dealing with difficult kitchen and bathroom blockages, many people turn to chemical drain cleaners.
Even chemical cleaners that are powerful enough to clear a little blockage in your drain have the potential to do serious harm to your skin and eyes, not to mention the environment.
Reasons for Choosing Eco-Friendly Ways to Unclog Drains
Drain cleaners containing chemicals are flushed into the sewage system and, eventually, into local streams and bodies of water. This class of compounds has the potential to harm plant and animal ecosystems while also causing genetic abnormalities in their progeny. The poisons have the potential to kill vulnerable species outright. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, many chemical drain cleaners contain lye and sulfuric acid, both of which emit harmful vapors.
Commercial drain cleaners are also far more expensive than natural alternatives.
Instead of utilizing chemical cleaners to clear your drains, you could use environmentally friendly alternatives.
Check out these four practical methods for unclogging your drains that don’t require the use of harmful chemicals.
Ways to unclog your drain without using chemicals
These are the most straightforward and apparent ways for unclogging a drain that the majority of people employ. Almost every home in the United States is equipped with a plunger, and this is usually the first item you do to unclog a clogged drain. If you’re not comfortable using the same plunger in your sink that you use in your toilet, we recommend investing in a sink-clearing plunger, such as this one, which is specifically made for clearing sinks. adunit0; adunit1; adunit2; adunit3; adunit4; adunit5; adunit6; adunit7; adunit0; adunit0; adunit0b-20; adunit0; adunit0; adunit0; adunit0; adunit0; adunit0; adunit0; ad Sink plungers are compact and maneuverable, making them ideal for storing beneath the sink so that they are always available when needed.
- Because of the vacuum it generates, it may occasionally be used to clear a clog, but if the aperture is not entirely covered, it might result in chemical blowback.
- Then, with the plunger still in position, close the drain’s opening.
- This will aid in the removal of obstructions and the re-opening of your drain.
- To assist in breaking up the blockage, disassemble a wire coat hanger and plunge it down the drain with great force.
- If your drain is still clogged, you can use a snake to clear it out if you have one accessible to you.
- The snake’s blades revolve in a circular motion, cutting through any jams created by hair, fibrous food debris, or tree roots.
- The snake can also be used in conjunction with the water, vinegar, and baking soda procedures that are discussed later in the piece.
2. Dish SoapHot Water
Another excellent natural method for unclogging a clogged drain is to use dish soap and boiling hot water. If the blockage is caused by grease, this procedure will be highly effective in clearing it. Fill the drain with soap and then let it sit for a few minutes to clear the clog. Next, empty the contents of a pan or kettle full of boiling water down the drain. This should clear out any fatty blockages that have formed in your drain. This should be done at least once every week in order to prevent drain obstructions.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar
It’s similar to those volcanoes that would win the science fair in elementary school, but now you’re trying to keep all of the foam contained rather than letting it erupt.
Baking soda is considered a basic, whereas white vinegar is considered an acid. When these two chemicals come into contact, a chemical reaction happens that causes bubbles to form and clogs to be eaten away. In order to unclog a drain using the power of chemistry, follow the procedures below:
- Make sure there is no visible debris in the drain hole. Pour a quarter-cup of dried baking soda down the sink drain
- Pour 12 cup vinegar down the drain and cover it with a towel or a stopper as soon as possible. Prepare boiling water as you wait for it to cool down for 30 minutes. Removing the stopper will allow you to slowly pour hot water down the drain.
That is all there is to it. If the first pass does not completely remove all of the muck, a second pass should be sufficient. In addition, you can maintain your pipes clean and free of chemicals!
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
You may also use hydrogen peroxide to unclog your drain if it is clogged. Combine a cup of hydrogen peroxide and a spoonful of baking soda in a small bowl. In a sink or bathtub, pour this mixture down the drain and let it to froth. As a result, the obstruction should be broken up and your drain should be cleared. However, even if you are employing one of these natural ways, it is still critical that you follow basic safety measures. Wearing rubber gloves is always a good idea to keep your hands safe.
Keep your face back when you’re pouring hot water down the drain to prevent getting steam burns.
After the Clog is Gone
So you’ve cleared out whatever was obstructing your drain, and your water is flowing freely again — congratulations! But, what can you do to keep it from being blocked in the first place? Consider replacing your standard sink stopper with one that stops undesired things from being flushed down the drain in the first instance. A new mesh basket stopper to prevent undesired food from making its way down your drain is a good investment if you have a kitchen sink. Whenever a bathroom sink becomes blocked, hair is frequently one of the most significant offenders!
If you want to use your tub, there is a tub-sized version of theTub Shroom available as well.
While this post was initially published in 2012, its content has been updated to ensure that it remains current and thorough.
Make a rough estimate of your savings.
How Do You Unclog a Sink without Drano®?
It is possible to have a clogged sink even if you take precautions to avoid it by keeping items such as oil, coffee grounds, and hair out of the drains. Chemical drain cleaners such as Drano® and other commercial drain cleaners can be effective in dissolving obstructions, but they can also be hazardous to keep around the house if you have children. The use of caustic chemical drain cleaners on a regular basis might potentially cause harm to your plumbing system. Fortunately, for many clogs, there are easy remedies that may successfully clear drains, saving you both time and money in the process.
How to Unclog a Sink Drain: 5 Helpful Tips from Plumbing Experts
Many light to moderate blockages may be removed with the help of a few ordinary household equipment and supplies, as well as a little patience and elbow grease on your part.
A few of the most effective Do It Yourself (DIY) solutions for cleaning sink blockages are as follows:
- Many mild to moderate blockages may be removed with the help of a few ordinary home equipment and supplies, as well as a little patience and perseverance. A few of the most effective Do It Yourself (DIY) solutions for cleaning sink blockages are listed below.
If none of these solutions work, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of a plumbing professional. Using expert drain cleaning services, experienced plumbers can clear any obstinate obstructions from your plumbing system without causing any more harm. They may also assess if your drain issues are the result of anything more serious, such as broken pipes or sewer line obstructions, and they can provide a solution.
Drain Cleaning Services in AkronCleveland, OH
Look no farther than our team of skilled plumbers at BlindSons for economical and effective drain cleaning services in and around the Akron and Cleveland areas. Based on our more than 80 years of plumbing experience, we have the knowledge and expertise you can rely on for all of your plumbing, drain, and sewer requirements. We may be reached at (330) 753-7711 or through our web form to book drain cleaning services right now. We also provide emergency plumbing services 24 hours a day, seven days a week!
Naturally Clean & Unclog Drains
Unclog a blocked drain and restore slow-running sink functionality without the use of harmful chemicals or consulting a professional plumber! In fact, you probably already have the necessary items in your home, and they aren’t baking soda and vinegar! This article contains affiliate links. There is no charge for using them, and they allow us to provide you all-natural cleaning methods. More information may be found under Policies and Disclosures. Have you ever had a clogged drain that needed to be unclogged?
After a while, my kitchen drain gave up and began regurgitating murky brown water mixed with bits of food from the disposal somewhere between the liquid turkey fat and the potato peels I was using.
Commercial Drain Cleaners
What could possibly be worse than an unsightly clog? Being compelled to use potentially hazardous chemicals to unclog clogged sinks and clean slow-flowing drains. Remove the harmful chemicals from your home and learn the simple method of organically cleaning a blocked drain and speeding up slow-moving pipes. In fact, you probably already have the necessary items in your home, and they aren’t baking soda and vinegar!
What Causes Disgusting Drain Clogs?
Have you ever attempted to prevent an air mattress from collapsing because it was leaking? It will be impossible to halt the air loss unless you locate the source of the leak. When it comes to unclogging a clogged drain, the same principles apply. If you do not know what is causing the problem, you will be unable to clean and declog it. The four most common compounds that create drain blockages in the home are listed below.
Kitchen Sink Clog Causes
- Cooking fats, oils, and grease (also known as FOG): Fatty substances are the most common cause of blockages in kitchen sinks and slow draining sinks. – they are readily flushed down the drain when in a liquid condition (imagine hot oil in a skillet or dissolved fat in warm dishwater), but as they go through your pipes, the fat cools and solidifies. This solid fat coats the interior of the pipes, becoming thicker and thicker with time, resulting in a delayed drain or a full obstruction. Large food particles or vegetable peels that become stuck in the curved pipe beneath the sink (also known as the p-trap) are another typical source of kitchen drain jams.
Bathroom Sink Clog Causes
- When it comes to bathroom drain clogs, hair is the most prevalent culprit. Once the hair has been washed down the drain with water, it will amass inside the pipe, eventually blocking the drain. These blockages normally occur just below the drain
- However, they can occur anywhere. Soap Scum: Greasy soap residue and particles can cover the interior of pipes, causing them to become clogged and obstructed. There are also occasions where the soap accumulation becomes unbearably terrible that it can actually damage the pipes.
The Right Tool (or Trick) for the Clog
After you’ve made an informed estimate regarding the origin of the blockage, four tools and tactics will assist you in naturally unclogging your drain and removing debris without the need to call a plumbing professional.
1. A Plunger
- The p-trap (the curved pipe beneath your sink) is effective against food particles and other foreign items. This method should be used on totally blocked or slow-draining drains.
- Instructions for Use: Make sure the surrounding area is clear in case of water spills. Use a rubber plunger to fill the sink halfway with warm water and then plunge the sink vigorously to remove any remaining water. Drains should be flushed with hot water.
- The Reason Why This Works: In order for blocked food particles to flow down the drain pipe, the plunger must first be dislodged from the pipe. The water rinse sweeps them down the toilet
- They are no longer there.
2. Long Wire Hook
- Hair or tiny items caught in bathroom drains are effective candidates for this treatment. Try this on a bathroom drain that is entirely plugged or draining slowly
- How to Use: Using pliers, bend the end of a long length of wire into a little hook (a coat hanger works nicely for this) or obtain a drain cleaning tool to use. Remove the drain cover with care, clean out any visible debris, and then insert the hook into the drain. The smell is so bad that you’ll want to wear gloves.) Pull the hook back up and clean off any debris that has accumulated (this will be a bunch of decomposing hair and gunk). Use the hook many times in the drain to ensure that all of the debris is cleared out of the drain. Toss the trash can with the debris.
- The Reason Why This Works: The hook removes the hair and debris that had accumulated in the drain, allowing it to become clean and free-flowing again.
3. Liquid Dish Detergent and Hot Water
- Works on obstructions caused by grease or narrower pipes caused by fat. If your kitchen drains are sluggish to drain, give this a try.
- How to Make Use of It: Bring 2 liters (a large pot of water) to a boil, then add a few teaspoons of natural hand washing dish detergent orSal’s Suds and bring back to a boil. Pour the almost boiling water down the slow-running drain slowly, and then flush with hot tap water to complete the process. It may take many pans of detergent and boiling water to do this.
- The Reason Why This Works: The hot water helps to dissolve some of the oil that has clogged the pipes, and the dish detergent aids in the dissolution of the fat. When this mix of cleansers is used, the gunky buildup is removed, allowing drain pipes to run more freely.
4. Salt and Hot Water
- Works on blockages caused by grease or soap, as well as narrower pipes caused by fat or soap. If your kitchen or bathroom drains are taking a long time to empty, do this:
- How to Make Use of It: One-half cup of salt should be poured down the slow-moving drain. 2 liters of water should be heated until it is nearly boiling, then slowly poured down the drain and flushed with hot running water. It is possible that numerous rounds of salt and hot water will be required. You may use whatever sort of salt you like (table salt, sea salt, or kosher salt), and you can make it in any shape you want.
- The Reason Why This Works: The hot water helps to dissolve some of the grease that has built up in the pipes. Its abrasive texture functions as a natural scouring agent, pushing more greasy buildup out of the pores as it abrades the pores. When this mix of cleansers is used, the gunky buildup is removed, allowing drain pipes to run more freely.
5. Biological Enzyme Cleaner
- Works on clogs that are made of organic materials such as grease, hair, and soap. This method should be used on slow-draining kitchen and bathroom drains, as well as in homes with septic systems. It is also recommended that enzyme cleansers be used on a regular basis to maintain drains clear of organic waste and foul odors.
- How to Use: Follow the directions on the packaging. When drains are not being utilized, it is best to use them overnight.
- It works because biological cleaners, such asEarth Enzymes Drain Opener orBiokleen Drain Gel, include enzymes and/or bacteria that chew away the organic material in the blockage in order to clear it out. The use of these cleansers is permitted in houses with septic systems since they do not harm the beneficial bacteria that are present. The use of monosodium sulfate, a non-toxic acid, to remove drain muck is another a common technique (Green Gobbler Drain Clog Remover is another popular option).
How to Prevent Drain Clogs From Coming Back
Following the declogging of a drain, you should follow these five tips to avoid the problem recurring: 1. One of the most important rules is to never dump FOG (Fat, Oil, or Grease) down the drain or into the garbage disposal. It is recommended that you chill any fat-containing substances (such as bacon grease, coconut oil, butter, peanut butter, and other high-fat foods) and then discard or wipe them into the trash before washing them. No hot tap water should be used to melt fats so that they may be poured down the drain.
3- Throw away food waste and vegetable peels in the garbage!
For further information, consult your manufacturer’s handbook.
When cleaning, never flush hair down the drain; instead, pick up any stray strands and toss them in the garbage instead.
5 – Once a month, flush kitchen drains with a solution of salt and hot water. This combination keeps grease buildup at bay while also allowing drains to operate at maximum capacity.
Get More Green Cleaning Advice
- See the results of my baking soda and vinegar experiment, and discover why you should never use baking soda and vinegar to clean drains.
- Read on to learn more about green cleaning combinations that are either unsafe or ineffective
I hope these suggestions save you from experiencing an unpleasant drain clog and assist you in flushing the poisonous substances down the toilet! Sign up for my free newsletter by filling out the form below to receive more green cleaning tips and tricks.
Bren Did Newsletter Subscribers Get Access!
A blocked drain is something that almost everyone has experienced at some time in their lives. However, every time the water in the toilet rises or the sink takes an eternity to drain, it may be a mentally exhausting experience. Much more aggravating is attempting to find out how to defuse the situation in a manner that is “septic safe.” If you have a septic tank, this may be even more difficult. Showering with two inches of dirty water building up at their feet because the water won’t drain properly is not something anyone likes to do.
Beware of popular drain cleaning and drain opener goods available at your local department or hardware shop, since they may contain harmful chemicals.
Why are chemical drain openers harmful to septic systems?
a septic system is a living ecosystem of bacteria and enzymes that decomposes all organic material (also known as “waste”) and separates and filters out all inorganic stuff from wastewater that drains into the soil. When an excessive amount of inorganic waste is dumped into your tank on a regular basis, this mechanism might become compromised. The use of antibacterial or chemical drain cleansers down the toilet while trying to clear your tank is one of the worst things you can do while trying to clear your tank.
It is indeed true that eliminating germs will have a negative impact on your septic system.
This is what you really want to look for.
While septic safe suggests that the product will not damage the components used in septic tank construction, biodegradable signifies that the formula will breakdown naturally and will not affect the surrounding environment.
The perfect drain clog removal product for septic systems/septic tanks?
Now that you are aware of the two most important characteristics to look for in a drain cleaner or drain opener. Using Green Gobbler’s Drain Opening Pacs, you may liquefy hair, soap scum, and other organic pollutants with a biodegradable composition.
It also comes with a money-back guarantee, which means that if the device fails to unclog your slow drains, you will receive your money back. Talk about a win-win situation.
How To Unclog Your Drains At Home?
Drain obstructions are a frequent problem, but they may often be handled without the need for a professional’s assistance. Furthermore, you will not be need to employ dangerous chemicals in order to clean up your blockage. With a little patience and certain tried-and-true procedures, you can frequently unclog your own drain in a relatively short period of time with minimal effort. There may be additional considerations you should take into account when removing clogs from your septic system to ensure that back up does not negatively impact your septic tank or cause problems with septic tank pumping or solid wastes in theseptic tank.
- A frequent problem, clogged drains may often be remedied without the need for a professional’s assistance. You won’t have to use any harmful chemicals to clean away your blockage, either. In many cases, with a little patience and the use of tried and proven procedures, you can unclog your own drain in a reasonable length of time. It is possible that you will need to consider other aspects of your septic system when clearing blockages from it, in order to ensure that back up does not negatively impact your septic tank, or that it does not cause problems with septic tank pumping or solid wastes in theseptic tank. If you are a homeowner with an onsite septic tank, you may need to consider other aspects of your onsite septic system when clearing blockages from it.
When You Need a Professional Plumber’s Help
If you are unable to remove a clog, whether it is in your kitchen sink, main line, wastewater line, or anyplace else in your plumbing system, it may be necessary to bring in the pros at A-1 Sewer and Septic Service for assistance. As a family-owned business that has been serving the inhabitants of the Kansas City Metro Area since 1968, we have built a reputation for providing efficient service at competitive, up-front costs. We are accessible on your timetable and may provide same-day and weekend service if necessary.
5 Best Ways to Unclog A Drain Without Chemicals
If you are unable to remove a clog, whether it is in your kitchen sink, main line, wastewaterline, or anywhere else in your plumbing system, it may be necessary to call in the pros at A-1 Sewer and Septic Service for assistance. As a family-owned business that has been serving the inhabitants of the Kansas City Metro Area since 1968, we have built a reputation for providing efficient service at reasonable, up-front costs. We are accessible on your timetable and may provide same-day and weekend service if necessary.
Dish Soap
Grease may readily congeal in pipes and clog a sink drain, resulting in a slew of problems for homeowners. In order to unclog a grease blockage, you should use dish soap, which you probably already have in your kitchen or bathroom cabinet. Here’s how it’s done:
- Fill a kettle halfway with water and bring it to a rolling boil
- Empty the sink and drain of any water that has collected
- Dish soap should be poured down the drain in large quantities. Allow the soap to trickle for a few minutes to ensure that it reaches the grease blockage, then flush. Make a stream of hot water from your kettle down the drain to flush it
It is possible that more than one cycle will be required to completely break down a grease blockage. It’s likely that you’re dealing with anything other than grease if the blockage continues to impede your progress. Photograph by Jasmin Merdan/Getty Images
Grab a Plunger
Bathroom sinks are infamous for clogging due to the accumulation of hair and soap scum. You can use the same item that you use to unclog your toilet to unclog your bathroom sink, which is a plunger, which is fantastic news. Simply said, do not use the same plunger that you use on your toilet, or at the very least completely clean the plunger before using it. Here’s how to use a plunger to unclog a clogged sink:
- Remove any plugs or covers that may have been placed in the drain
- Make sure there is about an inch of water in the sink before turning off the faucet. Place the plunger over the drain so that it completely covers it and makes a full seal before proceeding. Pump the plunger up and down repeatedly for up to half a minute at a time. Keep an eye on the water to watch how it drains. If it continues to clog the sink, try pumping the plunger again.
Baking Soda and Boiling Water
Making use of baking soda, you may clean your home naturally without using harsh chemicals.
When you combine baking soda with a little vinegar and some hot water, you’ll have a potent, chemical-free unclogging combination on hand. Here’s what you should do:
- Fill a kettle halfway with water and bring it to a rolling boil
- Place a boiling pot of water down the drain to dislodge the clog and heat the pipes
- Refill the kettle with additional water and bring it to a boil. Pour one cup of baking soda, as well as a solution made consisting of one cup water and one cup vinegar, down the sink drain. For a period of ten minutes, close the drain. Boiling water should be poured down the drain
This should be enough to allow the boiling water to wash out any remaining debris from the pipe as a result of the interaction between baking soda and vinegar.
The Wire Hanger Method
Alternatively, a wire hanger from your closet may be used to unclog obstructions in your drain. Here’s how it’s done:
- Straighten the hanger into a long single wire with a pair of needle-nose pliers, making sure to leave the hook intact on one end. Stick the hook end of the ratchet down the drain, twisting it as you go, while maintaining a firm grasp on the other end. As soon as you encounter resistance, jiggle the hanger about and spin it a couple more times until you no longer encounter it. Using a paper towel, gently lift the hanger out of the drain and wipe away any filth. Repeat the procedure until the obstruction has been completely eliminated.
When use this strategy, exercise caution. If you use too much power, the clog will be pushed deeper into the pipe, aggravating the situation. Photograph by Moussa81/Getty Images
Drain Snake
If a wire hanger isn’t doing the trick, you may need to invest in a drain snake instead. Drain unclogging products are particularly created for this purpose. If you know how to utilize them properly, they tend to perform admirably well. Here’s how it’s done:
- Make a small hole in the drain using the end of the drain snake. Turn the handle on the end of the drain snake to the desired position. This will cause the tip of the snake to be pushed down into the drainage system. Continue to turn the snake into the drain until you encounter resistance. Using your hands, rotate the snake and spin it until you feel it break through the obstruction. Once you’ve broken through the blockage with the drain snake, turn it in the opposite direction to draw it out of the pipe. Fill the drain with hot water and let it run for a few minutes to clear the clog.
6 Best Non-Toxic Drain Cleaners to Use Instead of Chemical Options
If you’re suffering with a blocked drain but don’t want to use chemical cleaners, there are a variety of non-chemical options available. These are some of the finest non-toxic drain cleaners that might be the answers you’ve been looking for, whether you’re concerned about your health or the environment.
Reasons to Avoid Chemical Cleaners
While chemical drain cleaners are incredibly powerful and operate quickly, they might be less than useful for a variety of reasons, including:
- These substances can cause damage or burns if they come into touch with your skin. It is possible to get a burning feeling in your lungs as well as nausea if you inhale them. If they are mistakenly eaten, they might result in significant complications such as chest or stomach discomfort, organ damage, and shock.
The cleansers may also have an adverse effect on the pipes in your house. When certain acidic characteristics are present, they can slowly erode away at the plumbing system, which can be hazardous, especially if your home or pipes are older. Of course, there’s the reality that everything you flush down the toilet ends up in the environment, where it might harm local wildlife and plants. Animals are poisoned by the chemicals included in these cleansers, and they may also contribute to air pollution.
The reaction generated by the combining of chemicals can result in the production of chlorine gas, which is a poisonous mixture that can harm the lungs, the eyes, and the skin.
Things to Know Before Using Non-Toxic Cleaners
Diy drain cleaners and alternative drain cleaners are excellent choices! Take note that they should not be used once a drain has become plugged, and that they might take several hours to begin working properly. It is important to use these cleansers on a regular basis in order to avoid complications. Maintaining your drains on a regular basis will help you avoid severe problems in the future! Before attempting any of the solutions listed below, see if you can clear the clog out with your hand (use gloves!
Even if the obstruction persists, these actions can nevertheless assist the cleaner in making his or her task simpler.
Option1: Baking Soda and Cider Vinegar
Baking soda is actually one of the most widely used natural drain cleaners on the market! Also, it’s quite effective for normal maintenance, and it doesn’t take much time to get everything ready. Using a cup of baking soda and a cup of apple cider vinegar will get the finest results. Fill the sink with hot water and pour it down the drain.
If you notice results, keep doing what you’re doing! Interesting Fact: Baking soda and vinegar work so well together because baking soda is a base and vinegar is an acid. If you have a clogged drain, the violent, bubbling reaction can be quite effective.
Option2: Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
However, this homemade mixture is identical to Option1 (one cup baking soda and one cup lemon juice), although it is typically more expensive. Because of the far more pleasant fragrance, it is still a fantastic alternative. It works best in kitchens, but it also has another application: the aroma of lemon drives gnats away! The hot water will need to be turned on in order for this combination to fully operate.
Option3: Alka-Seltzer®
What if you don’t have any baking soda on hand? If you go through your medicine cabinet, there’s a high chance you’ll find Alka-Seltzer or a similar product. Drop two to three pills into the sink and follow up with apple cider vinegar to remove the odor. You should wait around two minutes for the Alka-Seltzer to begin responding, but as soon as you notice this occurring, turn on the hot water to its maximum setting. It also has a pleasant scent! It may not be effective for the most severe of clogs, but it can be effective for lesser obstructions.
Option4: Boiling Water
The other options all require hot water, but boiling water on its own can be effective as well! This works particularly well in the kitchen sink when it comes to fats and oils. If left for an extended period of time, they can solidify. Start by boiling some water in a kettle and making sure to dump the hot water directly down the drain.
Option5: Salt, Borax, and Vinegar
It is possible that this homemade cleaner will take some time to respond, therefore you will need to wait before checking the results. Combine 14 cup salt, 14 cup borax, and 12 cup vinegar in a mixing bowl. Pour the liquid down the drain and flush it with hot water once more.
Option6: Enzymatic Drain Cleaners
This is not a DIY recipe, but rather a chemical-free cleanser that can be found in select places, on the internet, or purchased directly from C W Plumbing, which is ecologically friendly. In enzymatic drain cleaners, bacteria that feed on organic waste are present, which makes them ideal for cleaning up hair or food debris. The bacteria actually reproduce in the drain, spreading throughout the system and dislodging any organic obstructions that may have formed along the way. Enzymatic cleansers are appropriate for use in septic tanks since they reduce the need to pump the system on a regular basis.
Still Having Problems?
The following steps should be taken after you’ve attempted one, a couple, or all of these alternate solutions and your blockage hasn’t been cleared:
- The next steps should be taken after you’ve attempted one, a couple, or all of these alternate solutions and your blockage hasn’t been cleared.
If there is still no improvement after several days, it may be necessary to hire a plumber. Our team will be delighted to assist you if you live in the North Texas region! C W Plumbing specializes in drain cleaning and uses instruments such as cameras, sewer snakes, smoke, and hydrojetting to do this task efficiently. We have the expertise to get to the bottom of your blocked pipes! Furthermore, we can provide you with a recurring supply of enzymatic cleansers for use on your septic system or as part of your home drain care program.
Founded in Lewisville, Texas, by Chris Edmonds, C W Plumbing is a full-service plumbing company.
Chris has been a master plumber since 1999, and he and his wife Karen, as well as their two kids, reside in Highland Village.
How to Unclog a Drain and Septic Tank : Tips and Tricks
- Plumbing
- Unclogging
- Septic Tank
- Blocked
- Septic System
- Pipes and Drains
- How to Plumbing
A few methods for unclogging a septic tank drain, as well as suggestions for speeding up a slow drain, difficulties that may arise while unclogging a drain, and preventative steps to avoid blocked septic tanks and drains will be discussed in this article. As well as how to unclog a septic tank and strategies to handle typical septic problems that may arise as a consequence of a full septic tank or clogged septic lines, this article will teach you how to unclog a septic tank. Your kitchen sink drain or bathtub drain is attached to a specific branch line and drains at a slower rate than usual because of this.
Reasons for a clogged bath or kitchen drain:
- Dumping food or solid stuff down the drains is prohibited. Putting oil or other sticky substances into the kitchen sink
- Dumping chemicals or paints down the drains is not acceptable. Hair down the drains of the bathtub and shower
- Ventilation that is improper and/or insufficient Drainage system that is clogged Septic intake or outlet that is clogged
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
Many various things may cause your kitchen sink drain or bathroom drains to get clogged, but the most typical reasons of clogged drains are still leftover food and grease from the kitchen that is poured down the kitchen sink, as well as hair that is flushed down the bathtub and shower drain. Another typical reason of clogged drains is the buildup of paints and other chemicals inside the drain pipe, which solidify and block the line. In many cases, you will be able to unclog a blocked kitchen sink or a clogged bathtub drain on your own.
Ways to unclog a drain:
- Baking soda and vinegar drain unclogging is an alternate and more natural method of unclogging a clog in the drain. Vinegar and baking soda have no negative impact on the environment. A plunger can be used to clear a clogged drain. This method will work for clogs of modest size and will not cost you much money. If the obstruction continues, consult with a professional. Although it is more expensive, unclogging a drain with a cable or auger may be quite successful in removing solid obstructions in the drain and even breaking through thick roots
- Yet, it is also more efficient. Pouring paint or other sticky and oily materials down the drain can produce blockages, and high-pressure water jetting is more successful at clearing them.
Before you begin utilizing high-pressure water jetting to unclog your drain, be sure that your pipes are capable of withstanding the high pressure that will be applied by the high-pressure jet. Otherwise, the high pressure will rip your pipes apart. Hydro jetting is best left to the professionals, such as your local plumbers.
Ways to avoid clogged drains and a full septic tank:
- Avoid blocking your sink drain by pouring solid objects or oily stuff down it. Cover the drains in your toilet and kitchen with filters to protect hair and solid things from entering the drain system. Make certain that suitable numbers of air vents are provided, and that the diameters of the vents are acceptable for all of your fixtures.
Problem II: All of your home’s drainage lines are sluggish to drain, and the drain water from the main drainage line is backed up in a pool.
Possible causes for a slow drain:
- An obstruction has formed in a section of the main drain line
- An obstruction has formed at the drain intake or outflow of the septic tank. A section of the percolation pipes has become jammed
- The septic tank vent has become obstructed. Low temperatures have caused the sewage tank or septic vents to become iced over
- One of the distribution boxes has been blocked off
Ways to unclog a main drain or full septic tank:
- To unclog the main drain line, use a snake or high-pressure water jetting. This is the work of a professional. By virtue of his knowledge and experience, he can snake a sluggish drain, determine if the blockage is caused by solid waste, oily substances, or roots, and apply the most appropriate procedure to unclog the drain. Verify that there is no blockage at the entrance or exit of the septic tank owing to solid wastes or scum, among other things. Check the distribution box, which is placed between the septic tank and the percolators, for easy flow once the block has been removed. If there are any obstacles, they should be removed. Check the region around the percolators for any problems. Check to see whether the area is damp, marshy, or smelly. It indicates that the percolation process is not working properly. Another type of work is where the earth is not absorbing the drain water at the same pace as it is being discharged. It might be because your water use has increased recently as a result of the increased number of guests, or it could be because the soil has been saturated as a result of moisture from other sources such as rainfall (which has been above average), or both. If your septic tank has frozen due to inclement weather, call an expert right away
- If your septic tank has frozen due to inclement weather, call an expert right away. Use the septic tank as a storage tank until the tank has completely thawed on its own if you can’t find a professional or the tools you need to do the job. You will be able to hang on for a longer period of time if you make wise use of water. Winterizing the septic tank before the following winter will help to prevent it from freezing in the future.
Preventive measures to avoid a blocked main or slow drain:
- Please be considerate of your septic tank. It is intended solely for the disposal of organic waste materials. Avoid depositing non-biodegradable and inorganic garbage in landfills. They will very certainly overflow a septic tank and interfere with the regular operation of the septic tank. Use drain filters in your toilet and kitchen to catch hair and solid things that are flowing down the drain. In order to avoid the septic tank from freezing in the winter, it should be winterized. If you are considering a lengthy trip, you should empty your septic tank and seek professional assistance. Winterization is dependent on the area and weather conditions. A simple investment here will spare you from all of the difficulties you may face throughout the winter.
External References
- Natural ways to unclog a drain include the use of vinegar, baking soda, and water (theGoodHuman.com), among others. On eHow.com, you can learn how to unclog a sink naturally.