If you’ve ever been plagued with a hair clog in your bathroom drain, then you know how difficult they can be to remove. Fortunately, there are several ways to successfully clear a hair clog from your drain, ranging from DIY methods to commercial products to professional help. In this ultimate guide to clearing hair clogs, we’ll explore the different options available, how to prevent them in the future, and when it’s best to call in the pros.
The Problem with Hair Clogs in Bathroom Drains
Bathroom drain clogs are a common issue that many people encounter, and hair is often the culprit. These clogs can be a major nuisance, causing slow drainage, foul odors, and even complete blockage if left unaddressed. Hair, especially long strands, easily gets tangled in the pipes, creating a web-like obstruction that prevents water from flowing freely.
One of the biggest challenges with hair clogs that they’re so stubborn. They don’t dissolve easily like soap scum or food particles. Instead, they intertwine with other debris, such as dirt and grease, making it difficult to dislodge them. Even if you manage to clear a hair clog temporarily, it may reoccur soon after if not completely removed.
Moreover, bathroom drain clogs can lead to other plumbing problems if not addressed promptly. The standing water and trapped debris provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mold, potentially causing foul smells and even health hazards. Additionally, the excess pressure on the pipes from a severe clog can lead to leaks, burst pipes, and costly repairs.
If you’ve got a stubborn hair clog that you’re not sure how to address, give the home plumbing pros at ACE Home Services a call at 602-517-0122 for expert advice.
Commercial Products for Clearing Hair Clogs
Commercial products can be a convenient and effective solution for clearing hair clogs in bathroom drains.
One popular commercial product for clearing hair clogs is a drain cleaner specifically designed to tackle bathroom clogs. These cleaners often contain powerful chemicals that break down hair and other debris, clearing the blockage. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully when using these products, as they can be harmful if not used correctly.
Another option is a hair removal tool or drain snake. These tools are designed to physically remove the hair clog from the drain. They usually have a long, flexible wire or plastic rod with hooks or bristles at the end, which can be inserted into the drain to catch and pull out the hair clog. Hair removal tools are generally effective for removing hair clogs close to the drain opening.
If you prefer a more environmentally-friendly approach, there are also natural enzymatic drain cleaners available. These cleaners use natural enzymes to break down organic materials, including hair, without the use of harsh chemicals. While they may take longer to work than chemical cleaners, they are a safer option for both your pipes and the environment.
Before using any commercial product, it’s important to read the instructions carefully and follow any safety precautions. Some products may not be suitable for certain types of pipes or septic systems, so it’s essential to choose the right product for your specific needs.
Commercial products can be a quick and effective solution for clearing hair clogs in bathroom drains. However, it’s important to note that these products may not completely solve the underlying issue if there are other factors contributing to the clogs, such as a damaged pipe or improper plumbing installation. If you experience persistent or severe bathroom clogs, give ACE Home Services a call at 602-517-0122 to assess and address the problem.
DIY Methods for Clearing Hair Clogs
When it comes to clearing hair clogs in your bathroom drain, you don’t always need to rely on commercial products or professional help. There are DIY methods that can be just as effective in solving this pesky problem. Not to mention, they can save you some money in the process.
Plunger
One of the simplest and most common DIY methods is using a plunger. Yes, the same plunger you use for your toilet can work wonders on hair clogs. Make sure you have a tight seal over the drain and give it a few vigorous plunges. This can help dislodge the clog and allow water to flow freely again.
Baking soda and vinegar—the old standby
If the plunger doesn’t do the trick, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to loosen the clog. Then, sprinkle about half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, and then flush it with hot water. The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar can help break down the hair clog.
DIY drain snake
For more stubborn clogs, you can use a homemade drain snake. Simply straighten out a wire hanger and create a small hook at the end. Carefully insert the wire into the drain and twist and pull to catch the hair clog. It may take a few tries, but with a little patience and perseverance, you should be able to remove the clog.
Remember, these DIY methods may not always be successful, especially if the clog is severe or located deep within the pipes. The Phoenix plumbing pros at ACE Home Services have the experience and tools necessary to tackle even the toughest clogs and ensure your bathroom drain is running smoothly once again. Give us a call at 602-517-0122.
Preventing Hair Clogs in Bathroom Drains
By taking a few simple preventative measures, you can minimize the likelihood of hair clogs occurring in the first place.
One of the easiest ways to prevent hair clogs is by using a drain cover or strainer. These inexpensive devices sit over the drain and catch hair before it has a chance to go down the pipes. Regularly cleaning out the hair caught in the strainer is essential to maintain its effectiveness.
Another preventative measure is to regularly clean your drains. This can be done by pouring boiling water down the drain once a week. The hot water helps dissolve any buildup and flushes away loose hair and debris. Additionally, you can mix equal parts vinegar and water and pour it down the drain. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it with hot water. The acidity of the vinegar helps break down any grease or soap scum that may contribute to clogs.
Finally, regular maintenance of your plumbing system can help prevent hair clogs. Have a professional plumber from ACE Home Services inspect your pipes and drains regularly to ensure they are in good condition. They can also perform a professional cleaning to remove any stubborn buildup that may be hiding within your pipes. Call us at 602-517-0122.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While there are several effective DIY methods and commercial products available for clearing hair clogs in bathroom drains, there may be situations where it’s best to call a professional plumber. Here are some scenarios where professional assistance is warranted:
- Persistent clogs: If you’ve tried multiple DIY methods and commercial products without success, it’s a clear sign that the hair clog is stubborn or located deep within the pipes. A professional plumber has the experience and specialized tools to tackle even the toughest clogs.
- Repeated clogs: If you find that hair clogs keep occurring despite your best efforts to prevent them, there may be an underlying issue with your plumbing system. A plumber can assess the situation and identify any potential problems, such as damaged pipes or improper installation, which may be contributing to the recurring clogs.
- Unusual signs: If you notice unusual signs like foul odors, gurgling sounds, or water backing up in sinks or toilets, it’s a clear indication that there’s a more serious issue with your plumbing system. These signs may be an indication of a larger problem beyond just a hair clog and
If you’re unsure about how to safely and effectively clear a hair clog, it’s best to leave the job to a professional. Attempting to fix the problem without proper knowledge or tools can potentially cause more harm than good and result in costly repairs.
Remember, calling a professional plumber ensures that the clog is effectively addressed, and your bathroom drain is restored to optimal functioning. It’s better to seek professional help sooner rather than later to prevent further damage and costly repairs down the line.
The home plumbing team at ACE Home Services are a phone call away to help clear any drain issues you may encounter. Get in touch at 602-517-0122 or schedule an appointment online.
