How We Clear Tough Drain Clogs
Not every drain clog is the same, of course, so why would we use cookie-cutter
methods to clear them? A cornerstone of our business model is customizing
our services for every customer. When we arrive onsite, we will assess
your clogged drain. Our Allentown drain specialists will recommend the
best method based on our findings.
Three of our most common drain cleaning methods are:
-
PowerSnake: For most clogs, the PowerSnake is enough to break them apart. Our technicians
feed the PowerSnake down the clogged drain until reaching the blockage.
At that point, we manipulate the tool’s bladed head to break apart
the clog with ease.
-
ZOOM Jetting®: Particularly difficult clogs can resist the PowerSnake’s strength.
For grease, tree roots, and thick grime, we may need to use our ZOOM Jetting®
technology. This blasts apart clogs using high-pressure water jets. The
system also scrubs clean the inside of the clogged pipe for lasting results.
-
ZOOM DRAIN Bio™: After cleaning and clearing a drain of any clogs, we recommend ZOOM DRAIN
Bio™. This eco-safe aftercare product helps maintain results and
prevent any further issues. It disintegrates most clog-forming organic
compounds, like hair, food waste, and grease.
Common Household Culprits That Clog Drains
You can’t always stop a
drain from clogging. But with a little care about what you put down your Allentown
home’s sinks and drains, you may avoid severe clogs.
Remember this quick list of common items you should never put down the drain:
- Eggshells
- Coffee grounds
- Sticky starches like most pasta
- Stringy vegetables
-
Grease and oil, including cooking byproducts
- Hair, especially longer strands
- Menstrual hygiene products
- Food wrappers and plastic
Tips for DIY Sewer Maintenance
For the best possible results, schedule professional sewer cleaning in
Allentown on a regular basis. This allows our sewer company near you to
spot potential problems, like tree root infiltration. Then we can address
the issue before it causes major trouble.
You can also be proactive in keeping your sewer drains clean and clear.
Enzyme cleaners are an excellent option between professional cleanings.
Enzyme cleaners dissolve buildup inside your drains using a safe, effective
biological reaction. We offer our
ZOOM DRAIN Bio™ for this exact purpose. Citrus-based degreasers, like our
CitraJet®, are also great for breaking up fats, oils, and grease inside sewer drains.
We do not recommend corrosive chemical cleaners found in most stores.
Both enzyme and citrus-based drain cleaners are safer, better alternatives
to these products.
How to Clean a Bathtub Drain
When it comes to bathtub drains, Allentown homeowners often turn to professional
drain cleaners. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to
clean your bathtub drain yourself. By following this guide and using the
appropriate tools and supplies, you will be able to effectively clear
any clogs in your bathtub drain.
Firstly, you should remove the stopper from the bathtub drain. If your
drain has a trip lever attached to it, press the lever and unscrew it
counterclockwise until it comes off. You can then clear any debris and
hair that may have become caught in your drain by using a pair of needle-nose
pliers or a bent wire hanger.
Once the debris has been cleared, prepare a mixture of equal parts baking
soda and white vinegar in a small bowl. Pour the mixture into your bathtub
drain and let it sit for several minutes before pouring boiling water
down the drain to flush out any remaining blockages.
You may need to repeat this process several times or use a plunger to create
suction and push through any tough clogs. If your bathtub drain still
remains blocked, it may be time to contact one of the many professional
Allentown drain cleaners. They will have access to powerful tools and
products that can easily clear even the most stubborn blockages.
By following these simple steps and using the appropriate tools, you should
be able to effectively clean your bathtub drain yourself. For any more
serious drainage issues, it is recommended that you contact one of the
experienced Allentown drain cleaners to help resolve the issue.
Zoom Drain of Lehigh Valley has the tools and training to handle any clog that might
be troubling your home. All you need to do is give us a
call as soon as you need help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drain Services
Why should I hire a professional for drain cleaning?
There are many drain cleaning methods available, but professional drain
cleaning services offer the most effective and safest option. A professional
drain cleaning company like Zoom Drain of Lehigh Valley will have the tools and
expertise to clear away even the toughest clogs. In addition, drain cleaning
companies use eco-friendly products and methods to protect your drains
from future clogs. Finally, professional drain cleaning services can save
you time and money by preventing costly drain repairs down the line. So
if you're looking for the best way to clean your drains, be sure to hire
a professional.
Can chemical cleaners damage my pipes?
Yes! Chemical reactions caused by drain cleaning products can
damage drain and sewer pipes. They can even cause older pipes to break. Other reasons that you should
avoid pouring chemical cleaners down your drain include:
- Chemical cleaning solutions are highly toxic
- They are bad for the environment
- They can cause chemical reactions
- They don't always solve your drain problems
Should I have my sewer line inspected?
If your home is over 20 years old, it is generally a good idea to have
the sewer line inspected. If you have tree roots near your sewer line,
you may need to have it inspected every few years.
What are the warning signs of a clogged drain?
Giveaways of clogs in your drains and plumbing system are:
- Sink, toilet, or shower gurgles when in use
- Foul odors permeate around drains or sinks
- Water flow is restricted when using an outlet or faucet
- Toilet clogs frequently
- Puddles or water damage near plumbing fixtures
- Water drains incredibly slowly as it flows into pipes
What if I'm having trouble with several drains at once?
If more than one drain in your home backs up at the same time, this likely
means you have a clog deep in your main line. You may also notice foul
odors coming out of multiple drains.
What is a plumbing cleanout?
A plumbing cleanout is the spot that allows easy access to your sewer line.
Finding the location of the cleanout is necessary when there is a clog
in your main sewer line.
Why are tree roots in my sewer line?
Tree roots end up in sewer lines because the presence of moisture attracts
them. This is a common problem for properties with trees located near
a sewer line. The roots will likely need clearing from the sewer line
at some point.
We will work with you to be at your door as soon as it is most convenient
for you. Our Allentown drain cleaning specialists are already trusted
by many of your neighbors. Find out why for yourself today!
Call
(610) 601-2948 to learn more about our Allentown, PA drain services or
schedule an appointment.