Clogs happen, but they don’t have to cause you a big headache.  These handy hints can help you prevent and deal with some of them.

Slow Running Drains

It’s easier to unclog a slow drain than to open one that’s completely stopped up.  Here are a few ways to keep things running smoothly:

• To dissolve a grease build-up, try pouring down a few quarts of boiling water. Follow up with hot tap water to flush the pipes.   

• Clean the stopper or drain screen periodically.

• You should also check other household drains; if more than one drain is slow, you may have clog in the main drain pipe.

Sink Clogs

Before you grab the plunger, make sure you’re following this sage advice:

• Seal off the overflow drain (in a bathroom sink) using duct tape or a wet washcloth.

• Remove the basket strainer or drain stopper, then fill the bowl halfway with water.

• Place the plunger over the drain hole and make sure it has a good seal against the surrounding sink. (Tip:  For best results, use the cup plunger. The other type -- the flange plunger – is shaped for toilet use.) The plunger’s suction cup must completely cover the sink drain in order to create an airtight seal.

• Use 20 forceful strokes and pump vigorously to loosen the obstruction. It may take a few cycles to do the trick. 

• If the clog persists, you can try a sink auger or plumbing snake.

Chemical Cleaners: Do’s and Don’ts

Avoid using drain cleaners routinely – they can corrode your plumbing over time. Here’s how to use them safely and effectively:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area. Wear rubber gloves to protect your skin.

• Don’t use a plunger if you’ve already poured in a chemical cleaner; you risk splashing yourself with acid.

• Don’t pour chemicals into a stopped-up sink full of water; you’ll have a dangerous mess on your hands.

• Cleaners in which the active ingredient is bleach are better suited for city-sewer systems. Bleach will kill the beneficial bacteria in the septic system.

• Hair clogs can be immune to drain cleaners. You also run the risk of solidifying the clog and making things worse.  Same goes for laundry drain clogs – the chemicals don’t dissolve clothing fibers (the likely cause).