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How to Clear Slow Shower Drains in Your Home
Many homeowners prefer to try to fix slow shower drains themselves before calling a plumber. There are several inexpensive methods you can try without the help of a professional.
- The Boiling Water Method
Boiling water can help break down material that gets stuck in your drains. To begin, boil a pot of water on your stove. Keep in mind that you will have to carry it to the drain, so you should keep the area clear of obstacles, pets, and children before you move the boiling water to the bathroom.
Next, pour the boiling water down the drain. Take care not to splash hot water on bathtub accessories because the heat could cause damage.
- The Plunger Method
A plunger can sometimes clear drains just like it does toilet clogs. You may want to apply petroleum jelly to the edges of the plunger to achieve a stronger seal. Add water to submerge the plunger then plunge. This method doesn’t always work but can help in some instances.
- Remove Clogs by Hand
Remove the drain cover and look inside the drain. If you can see the clog, then you may be able to reach in and remove it. A flashlight can help you get a better view. You can reach in with your fingers to pull it out. You can wear gloves or use a tool instead if you don’t want to touch what’s down there. This method only works if the clog is close enough to reach.
What If I Can’t Clear a Shower Drain?
If you can’t find the clog or are unable to clear it, then you should call a plumber. Putman & Son’s Plumbing are available for all of your plumbing need. We can clear your shower drain and also identify the cause and make recommendations to prevent future blockages. Contact us today to schedule a visit.
Smoking Out Sewer Leaks
Sewer leaks are often not on the main line and you need to investigate to find the source. The best way to do this is with a smoke test that will pinpoint the source of the leak and odor. If you cannot get to the bottom of a foul smell or leak, contact Putman and Son’s certified plumbers. We are available 24/7 to help you.
Do I Need to Install a Sump Pump?
Sump pumps can be a great investment. This device is installed in the lowest part of your crawlspace or basement. It’s usually placed in a pit. Water can flow into the pit naturally or through drains. When a certain level is reached, the unit will turn on and pump the water out and away from the structure, so it doesn’t cause damage.
Types of Sump Pumps
Sump pumps fall into one of two categories: submersible and pedestal. Submersible models have a motor that’s mounted inside the unit and sealed. It’s more visually attractive, usually lasts longer, and tends to be safer for homes with children. The downside is that submersible pumps tend to cost more and are harder to reach.
Pedestal models are designed with the motor mounted above the sump. It is easier to see, which makes it easier to repair if needed. This type tends to cost less than submersible sump pumps but doesn’t usually last as long.
5 Signs That You Need a Sump Pump
Chances are you need a sump pump installed if:
- Your basement has flooded in the past
- You live on a low-lying property or one with soil that traps water
- Your region sees high amounts of snow or rain annually
- You have a sump pump that’s over six years’ old
- You have invested in a finished basement that you want to protect
If any of the above apply to you, now is the time to look for sump pumps. Paying for one now could save you thousands of dollars in water damage repairs in the future. Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing today to make an appointment with a certified plumber about installing a sump pump in your home.
How to Fix a Clogged Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal adds convenience to your kitchen – as long as it works. Problems can occur for several reasons. A foreign object may fall in and cause a blockage. The disposal may not work correctly if garbage is fed into it too fast or without enough water to flush the drainpipes. What can you do if you have a clogged garbage disposal?
- Switch Off Power to the Garbage Disposal – Switch off all power to the garbage disposal before working on it. If you don’t have a switch, you can turn off the breaker on the power panel.
- Inspect the Garbage Disposal – Visually inspect the inside of the garbage disposal. Never put your hands inside the unit at any time, even if the power is off. Switches can be defective, so this is a necessary safety measure. A flashlight can help you see the interior.
- Remove Foreign Object from Disposal – If you see something that doesn’t belong in the disposal, remove it. This should be done carefully with a pair of pliers, so your hands stay away from the blades.
- Reset the Garbage Disposal and Test – Give the disposal 15 minutes to cool down before turning the power back on and resetting it.
If you are still having trouble, contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing to schedule a repair or replacement. Not all garbage disposals are alike. We can install one that meets your needs.
How to Fix Slow Moving Shower Drains
You may be surprised to find that a lot of debris goes down the shower drain. Over time, this can build up, causing a slow moving drain. There are a few things you can try at home to stop this common plumbing problem.
Unclog By Hand
As long as the blockage isn’t deeper in your sewer system, you may be able to clear it by hand. To do this, remove the stopper. Find a piece of wire and bend the end with pliers to form a hook. Slide into the drain and use the hook to lift away tangled hair and debris. Have a utility knife on hand in case you have trouble getting all of the hair out. Once the drain is clear, remove the wire and replace the stopper.
Use Hot Water
A simple household solution to a slow moving shower drain is hot water, vinegar, and baking soda. This method should only be used on drains that are fitted with CPVC pipes. Boiling water can damage PVC pipes.
Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Then pour in two cups of boiling water. Let it work for five minutes before adding a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Next, pour baking soda and vinegar into the drain and replace the stopper. Let it sit while the mixture foams. After it has had adequate time to work, pour a cup of boiling water down the drain.
Do Not Use a Drain Cleaner
There are many commercially-made drain cleaner products available at home improvement and grocery stores. If you have frequent drain problems, it is best to contact a certified plumber to evaluate your system rather than using harsh chemicals that can do further damage. Contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing today.
