Showing posts with label drain cleaning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label drain cleaning. Show all posts
Thursday, February 10, 2011
How To Clobber Those Really Tough Drain Clogs
When Plungers Fail, Kick It Up a Notch!Nobody likes having a clogged sink, toilet or tub. For most people, drain clogs rank at or near the top of life's list of inconveniences. It’s probably a safe bet that you can work a plunger or have had to use an over-the-counter chemical drain cleaner to unclog a problem drain. And in most cases, these time honored drain cleaning tactics will do the job nicely. But when these traditional clog-busting methods don’t work or you’re dealing with a particularly nasty clog, what can you do? Time to pull out the big guns!
Get Physical to Clean the Drain
If you’re tried a plunger or chemical drain cleaner and the clog still hasn't been cleare, you may need to take a more physical approach. You can purchase a plumbing snake for around $20 at most home improvement or plumbing supply stores. These long, thin tubes go straight down the drain to catch and remove hair, debris and sludge that have caused the clog. If your sink is blocked, clean out the trap and feed the snake into the pipe that way. Try covering the overflow valve to build up pressure that can help blast the clog away.
A power auger is an even more powerful physical option to stubborn clogs. You should only use an auger if you have more than basic plumbing experience so you don’t risk damaging your plumbing. If you don’t feel up to the task yourself, it’s best to call in a professional plumber. The upside of hiring a pro is that he or she can do a whole system inspection to make sure you don’t have to deal with tough clogs again.
The Non-Chemical Approach to Drain Cleaning and Maintenance
Commercial chemical drain cleaners usually contain harsh chemical agents that cause nasty fumes, burn your skin and damage your clothing, floors and surfaces. They can also be quite expensive. For a cheaper, greener approach, a solution of plain old baking soda and vinegar or boiling water can do the trick on many clogs. The most common cause of drain clogs is accumulated hair, so adding a bit of hair removal cream to the drain can help break up the clog.
To maintain a clear drain, use an enzyme culture solution once a month to break down grease and debris; these all-natural, organic products can also eliminate odors from pipes and drains. You can find these products at most home and hardware stores.
If you do go the chemical route, don’t ever mix cleaners; the chemicals can react violently and cause serious damage to pipes or septic systems, not to mention produce harmful vapors.
When All Else Fails, Call The Pros!
If you’ve tried all the above methods to clear your clogged drain, then your problem is probably more serious than just a run-of-the mill clog. You could have significant accumulation of hair or grease...or a foreign object may have become lodged in the drain. Even worse, your could a broken or leaking pipe somewhere in your drain system. If left untreated too long, these issues can compound and lead to more serious problems that may require a total plumbing and drain system overhaul.
For super-stubborn clogs, call a professional drain cleaning contractor. If these is a good indication that the problem is more serious than a typical clog. Nationwide, the average cost of hiring a pro to unclog a drain is about $250. Though this sounds like a lot for a simple blocked drain, it's better to spend a little now to avoid more costly damage in the future. And if you call the drain cleaning pros at Horizon Services, you get one of the best drain cleaning deals available anywhere: Horizon will clean and clear any drain, any time, any size for the unbeatable price of $149. That's a small price to pay for instant gratification!
Related Plumbing and Drain Information from Horizon Services...
- Horizon Drain Cleaning Services
- Horizon Plumbing Services
- Horizon Sewer & Water Line Replacement Services
- Fast and Easy Dishwasher Care and Maintenance
- Garbage Disposal Do's and Don'ts
- How To Properly Use a Plunger to Unclog a Toilet, Sink or Tub
- Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tips
- 9 Ways to Save Water
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Home Sewer Line and Drain Disaster Prevention
Don't Let Obstruction Lead to Destruction!Blocked sewer lines and drains can wreak havoc with any home, causing the bath, sink or toilet to back up and fill with waste water and sewage. That's if you're lucky. A really bad blockage can cause your tub, sink or toilet to overflow, ruining floors, rugs and carpets and creating a highly unsanitary situation for all members of your household.
Major drain and sewer line backups and problems are not for the faint of heart. When they occur, you almost always need to call a professional drain cleaning or sewer line company like Horizon Servcices...especially if the blockage is particularly tenacious and a long time in the making.
Build up of scale and rusting, years of accumulated gunk and waste, even invasive plant roots are the major causes of blocked drains and sewer lines. The good news is that with proper usage and maintenance, most drain and sewer line disasters are unnecessary and avoidable. A few sensible precautions can prevent most drain and sewer line blockages from ever occurring.
Just like your car, your home's plumbing and drainage system needs some level of basic regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. As well as regular checks by yourself, a professional plumbing or drain cleaning specialist should be called in each year to snake your drain lines and keep them clear.
Do-it-yourselfers can often clear minor blockages to sinks, tubs and toilets with a plunger. But the kind of blockage that leads to a back-up situation usually requires much more aggressive means. Special chemicals like acids and other corrosive products can effectively clean drains and clear sewer lines...but they can be very dangerous and destructive to your body, your clothing, your floors and surfaces, even your pipes. Be extremely careful when pouring these corrosive chemicals down drains. Before you try the chemical route, call a drain cleaning or sewer line specialist. Most have tools and techniques ranging from snaking devices to high-powered hydro-jetting that can safely clear almost any obstruction. Companies like Horizon Services even employ state-of-the-art cameras that can identify the cause and pinpoint the exact location of the blockage. Chemicals are used only as a last resort.
Major toilet and tub back-ups will often give you warning signs. Like a volcano or a geyser, toilets and tubs will often make gurgling, bubbling and belching noises several days before they erupt. If your toilets and tubs start doing this, call a drain cleaning or sewer line specialist immediately...they'll clear the obstruction BEFORE you have a messier situation on your hands.
If sewage does start backing up into toilets, sinks and showers, call a drain cleaning or sewer line professional immediately. After making the call, use bleach and water to sanitize any areas that have been affected.
Of course, an ounce of prevention is always worth a pound of cure. Here are some simple things you should do to prevent any of these drain and sewer line disasters from occurring in the first place:
- Make sure that a strainer is in place in your kitchen sink to stop large, cloggable waste products from getting into pipes, drains and lines.
- Never pour cooking oil or grease down the drain.
- Don’t use too much toilet paper (the main cause of toilets blocking up).
- Don't flush ANYTHING down the toilet besides toilet paper and human waste. This includes tissues, paper towels, baby wipes, sanitary products, cotton balls and hair. Even seemingly harmless products like soap, shampoot and hair gel. All these things can coagulate and block drains and sewer lines.
- Pour boiling water, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, down drains regularly to help to keep them clear.
Related Drain and Sewer Line Information from Horizon Services...
Friday, January 14, 2011
Minimize Plumbing Clogs in Six Easy Steps
Clobber Clogs BEFORE They Create Chaos!Clogged drains and plumbing fixtures can turn from minor annoyance to major problem overnight—literally. Most household clogs are cause by misuse or overuse, though some can be the result of improper installation or a feature in need of repair. The following are some easy, inexpensive tips to keep your drains running clog-free.
1. Stop Putting Clog-Forming Substances in the Drain:
Seems pretty basic, but many of us pour clog-forming substances down the drain without even thinking about the consequences. Grease, cooking fat, syrup, gelatin, whole milk, ice cream, and even soaps with heavy moisturizers can coat pipes and back up in drains. When these substances narrow the area of water flow there’s a greater accumulation of crumbs, dust, and hair in the pipes. This combination can lead to huge, troublesome clogs.
Liquid fabric softener is also a common culprit. If you use fabric softener on your laundry, be sure to run your washer’s second rise cycle to flush out as much of the liquid as possible. Fabric softener tends to settle in the pipe bend just past the washer connection and can flood the tub eventually.
Place a trap over drain holes in showers, tubs, sinks, and washing machine rinse tubs to catch the food particles, hair, and other debris that can cause clogs.
2. Use Narrower Pipes:
This seems counterproductive, but the truth is that narrow pipes force water through the system faster. This prevents water from pooling at pipe bends, which can contribute to clogs. Narrow pipes also make drain and pipe snakes more effective in case of a serious clog deep in your plumbing because there’s less area for the snake to cover. Most standard plumbing codes indicate 3-inch diameter pipes should be used for toilets; 2-inch pipes for showers, tubs, and laundry room plumbing; and 1.5-inch pipes for sinks. Using bigger pipes can cause major problems.
3. Replace Aging Pipes
Older homes frequently have cast-iron or galvanized steel pipes. Over time, the interiors of these pipes become rough with lime scale and other deposits from hard water. These crags and crevices collect grease, soap, hair, and anything else that goes down your drain. Replacing old pipes with copper or PVC pipes will cut down on the frequency of clogs and can improve water pressure.
4. Flush More than Your Toilet
Flushing out drains and pipes is a great way to reduce debris build up and dissolve clogs. About once a month or so, plug sinks and tubs, and fill the basin with hot water. Release the stopper and let the hot water drain. The weight of so much water flowing through your pipes quickly will power clogs through the pipes; the heat of the water helps melt away any lingering debris.
5. Go Easy on Toothpaste
Strange? Perhaps. However, most of us ignore the recommendations that come on the back of that toothpaste tube: A pea-sized amount is more than sufficient to get teeth clean and keep them healthy. Thick toothpaste can collect in drains and hold on to clogging debris and goop. Consider switching to a gel formula, which will dissipate more quickly in water.
6. Get a Haircut, Hippie!
It's inevitable that you're going to have some hair go down the drain when you wash and shampoo in the shower or bath. But if you have long hair, you're more likely to shed hairs...plus they are much longer. Shorter hairs can travel easier through drains; longer hairs are more likely to accumulate into a tangled wad that can cause a major clog. Pay a visit to your barber, Ringo.
Related Plumbing and Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, January 3, 2011
Old Man Winter and Your Plumbing
Don't Get Left in the Cold with a Plumbing Emergency!It's a new year. Winter has officially arrived. Already, most of the nation has experienced has experienced an episode or two of nasty winter weather...including cold temperatures. Unfortunately, winter is also the time when your home is most prone to plumbing problems -- both routine and outright disasters.
Most of the more serious winter plumbing problems -- like cracked, burst and frozen pipes -- should be left to the plumbing experts. But as homeowners, there are plenty of things we can do ourselves to prevent these plumbing mishaps and to ensure that our home plumbing systems work as efficiently as possible all winter long. A regular round of checks and some preventive steps can be easily carried out to help maintain the long-term optimal working of your plumbing system and save on costly plumbing repair bills.
It's Always Wise to Winterize!
If you didn't do it before winter arrived, make sure now that any outside hoses are disconnected from faucets and and outside pipes turned off and drained, as water in them will freeze and expand. This will cause pipes and fittings to crack and burst. This can lead to serious leaks and even flooding. This can happen to plastic as well as metal pipes.
This shut-down of external pipes can be made easier if your home has shut-off valves installed, which will close them down and drain the water off. Once effectively disconnected, the exterior faucets can then be protected from the cold weather with lagging.
If you have pipes situated in areas of the home that are not heated, such as garages, these can be insulated from temperature extremes using heat tape or insulating sleeves available at most hardware stores.
To increase energy efficiency, seal doors and windows from drafts using materials you can buy in any home centers. This will keep warm air inside your home, adding a few degrees of warmth to your pipes and fixtures.
Check your water heater, which has an extra burden placed on it during cold months, flushing it out to get rid of any build-up of sediments, as these cause corrosion and greatly effect efficiency and longevity of the unit. Drain off a few gallons using the faucet situated near the base of the unit. Also check the pressure release valve, which should snap smartly back into place when lifted after allowing a spurt of water to the drain. If it is slack, get somebody in to replace it.
The water heater’s thermostatic control should be set according to the season. In winter you’ll want optimum performance, of course, at about 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You may also have to clean debris such as dead leaves from around the downspouts to allow for better drainage after the coming thaw.
It's important to prevent ice build-up in your pipes during the winter. Try not to let any sink, tub or toilet go idle for too long. Be sure to use as many fixtures as regularly as you can so water doesn't accumulate in one place and freeze. One good idea to make sure that water keeps flowing throughout your pipes is to leave faucets on at a very slow trickle...especially at night when temperatures can take a sudden plunge.
Going on a winter vacation or plan to be out of the house for an extended length of time? It’s a good idea to close the main water valve and then open the faucets at the top and base of the house to drain the system, keeping the heat on as you do so.
You need only a very basic set of tools to maintain your home plumbing system this winter. A pipe wrench is probably the most important, enabling you to get a good grip on pipes and fittings. A pair of pliers will help you to adjust nuts and bolts, but these can damage fittings if you slip up, so get some smooth sleeves to fit. These tools are fine for the small maintenance jobs you’re likely to be carrying out, but for bigger home plumbing jobs it’s best to get the professionals in, otherwise things could take a turn for the worse.
Related Plumbing Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, December 20, 2010
Protect Your Plumbing This Holiday Season!
Plumbing, Drain and Sewer Line Disasters = A Not-So-Merry Christmas and Unhappy New YearThe holidays are upon us, and along with all the joy comes an increased risk of serious plumbing emergencies. The sudden influx of people visiting your home can put unexpected pressure on your plumbing system – more washing, more bathing, more flushing, and more things going down the drain or garbage disposal.
Winter is usually a busy season for plumbers. On the day after Christmas alone, plumbing contractors in the Delaware Valley -- including Horizon Services, Inc. -- report a jump in business of 20 to 40 percent over a normal day. We get so absorbed in holiday celebrations that we often don’t consider the strain that these parties and out-of-town guests can put on our home’s plumbing.
By taking a few simple precautions, you can dramatically reduce the chances that your plumber will be the guest of honor at your next holiday party. Here's what you can do to minimize the likelihood that you will have a plumbing, drain or sewer line emergency in the midst of your holiday celebrations:
Plumbing Precautions In the Kitchen
Don’t pour grease or cooking oil down the drain or into the garbage disposal. These fats can solidify in your pipes and cause clogs that can back up drains. Wipe grease from pots and pans with a paper towel, and put the towels in the trash. You can also drain grease into a clean, empty can and throw it away.
Don’t put things like celery, poultry skin, pumpkin pulp or potato peels into the garbage disposal. Stringy, fibrous items like these aren’t easily broken down by the disposal blades and may cause clogs.
Run some cold water for about 15 seconds before and after using the garbage disposal. This helps flush waste out to the main sewer line.
Be sure the disposal is running when you put food into it, instead of filling the sink and then turning it on.
Run your washing machine and dishwasher at night to help conserve hot water and water pressure so your guests can shower in comfort whenever they wish.
Plumbing Precautions In the Bathroom
Plan ahead and try to schedule showers if you are expecting company, waiting at least 10 minutes between showers. This gives drains a chance to empty fully and lets your hot water heater refill for the next person.
Turn up the heat on your water heater slightly to help increase its capacity. Be careful not to turn the temperature higher than 125 degrees, though, to avoid scalding your guests.
Put a trash can in each bathroom and empty them frequently so your guests won’t use the toilet to dispose of garbage like used tissues, cotton swabs, facial scrub pads, hair, napkins and disposable hand towels.
Stock each bathroom with a plunger and put it where it can be reached easily if it is needed.
Keep a chemical drain cleaner handy in case of emergency. Most minor kitchen or bathroom clogs can be resolved with these products, and if you watch for slow drains you can usually catch most problems before they require the expertise of a professional. If you do need to use a chemical drain cleaner, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and use only in a well-ventilated area.
When Holiday Plumbing Disasters Strike
As proactive and precautionary as you may be, you may still find yourself in the throes of a plumbing emergency. May be when you're wrapping presents. Or entertaining guests. Or trying to enjoy some cookies and eggnog. If a plumbing situation arises in the middle of your holiday preparation and celebration, take comfort in knowing that the plumbing and drain professionals at Horizon Services are just a phone call away. Our customer service representatives and plumbing and drain technicians will be available morning, noon and night throughout the holiday season...including Christmas Eve and Day and New Year's Eve and Day!
If you need emergency plumbing, drain or sewer line service any time over the holiday season, Contact Horizon Services -- 24/7!
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a Joyous Kwanzaa to everyone from The Horizon Comfort Zone!
Related Holiday Plumbing and Drain Information from Horizon Services...
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- Fast and Easy Dishwasher Care and Maintenance
- Emergency Hot Water Heater Shutdown Procedures
- How To Properly Use a Plunger to Unclog a Toilet, Sink or Tub
- Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tips
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Important Safety Tips for Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners are useful for clearing all sorts of tough clogs. However there are a variety of risks and dangers with using these chemicals to clear your drains. Many of these chemicals emit harsh fumes that can be harmful if they are inhaled. Many can burn and scar if they come in contact with your skin. And they can damage clothing, floors, counters...even your pipes themselves if not used properly. The following tips will help you use these drain cleaners safely.Avoid the Most Harmful Cleaners
Some chemical drain de-clogging agents use lye or acid. These harsh chemicals are not only harmful to your health, but they can also contaminate waste water and cause damage to PVC piping. If you must use a cleaner with acid or lye, be sure to wear gloves and a protective mask. Ventilate the room as much as possible, and store them properly when you’re finished—opt for cleaners with a child-proof safety cap or put them in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf.
Always Read the Label
Not all drain cleaners are created equal, and using the wrong cleaner can cause major headaches. Some cleaners can eat through your plumbing, some can damage your septic system, and some can cause serious burns if they come in contact with your skin. Before you use a cleaner, read the label thoroughly to ensure that the cleaner is safe for your intended usage. You’ll also want to look for any label recommendations about safety and cleanup in case of an accidental spill.
Prevent Clog Build-Up
Do your best to keep grease and debris out of your drains and you won’t have to rely on a chemical drain cleaner to remove clogs quite so often. You’ll also cut down on unpleasant odors and help your pipes work more efficiently. A simple salt water solution, poured down the drain every couple of weeks, will flush out grease and eliminate odors from showers, sinks, and garbage disposals.
Consider These Drain Cleaning Alternatives
Harsh chemical cleaners are not the only option you have to cure a clogged drain. There are several alternatives that are just as effective without the potentially harmful side effects.
A sewer jetter sprays an adjustable, high-pressure stream of water down your drains, powering away clogs quickly and without harsh chemicals. Because you’re only using water, there’s no chance of damaging pipes or fixtures or of contaminating your home with noxious fumes. You can purchase a sewer jetter at most plumbing supply stores or large home improvement warehouses. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly before use.
There are also plenty of natural drain cleaning methods. One of the most effective uses plain baking soda and white vinegar. First, remove any standing water in the basin or around the drain. Pour about ½ cup of ordinary baking soda into the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. The two substances will react inside the pipes, dissolving clogs and allowing water to flow freely again. You can repeat these steps as many times as necessary to remove the clog. While the smell of vinegar might not be the most pleasant, it’s certainly non-toxic and much better for your plumbing, your home, and your health than any harsh chemical drain cleaner.
Your Best Bet: Call a Drain Cleaning Professional
Are you a chemist? Do you really know what happens when this chemical comes in contact with that substance? The thing about chemicals is that they produce chemical reactions. You've seen enough mad scientist movies to know that chemical reactions are almost never mild!
Plumbers and drain cleaning professionals aren't chemists either. That's why they generally only go the chemical route as a last resort.
If you have a clogged drain that's so bad that you need to resort to chemicals, the problem is probably beyond your scope. At this point, call a plumbing and drain contractor such as Horizon Services. We have an arsenal of non-chemical tools and means at our disposal that can safely remove virtually any clog. And in that rare instance when chemicals are required, our highly trained drain cleaning pros know how to safely and cleanly mix and pour the chemical without harming your pipes, kitchens or bathrooms.
Related Drain Cleaning Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, October 4, 2010
Common Drain, Sewer and Water Line Problems
We Separate the Minor Inconveniences from the Major Headaches!Got a backed up or slow moving drain? A toilet that won't flush? Waste water that comes back up your sink, shower or tub drains? A foul smell in your yard or basement? JOIN THE CLUB! As the weather gets cooler, we at Horizon Services usually begin to see an increase in drain, sewer and water line service calls. For many homeowners, the recent intense rainfall and flood conditions in the Mid-Atlantic states -- particularly our service area of Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland -- have brought latent drain, sewer and water line problems that have been lurking invisibly in the shadows out into the open in a very dramatic fashion.
Face it...there are many things that can go wrong with your home's drain, sewer and water line system. For example, years of accumulated waste can cause major obstructions in pipes and lines. Old pipes and seals can crack, corrode or collapse. Tree roots can even infiltrate sewer and water lines These are the kinds of drain, sewer and water line problems that can require significant repair and expense.
The good news is that the majority of drain, sewer and water line issues are not that severe. Most are easily and inexpensively repaired. And most are preventable.
The vast majority of drain, sewer and water line problems are usually caused by minor incidents such as something falling down the pipe, clogging due to inappropriate matter being sent down the sink or toilet, and frozen pipes in colder weather.
Identifying the problem is the first step. Visually inspecting your sinks, tubs, showers, toilets and pipes will usually reveal the source of the problem. If the problem isn't deep down in your drains or lines, there's a good chance that you can resolve it yourself...or at least save time and money by pointing your drain or sewer/water line repairman in the right direction when they arrive at your home.
In the case of clogged sinks or toilets that won't flush, if the problem isn’t solved by using a plunger to unblock it, then the cause is probably due to an obstruction further down the line. You can use a plumber's snake or coiled wire (available at most hardware stores) to probe into the drain and get to where a basic plunger cannot to remove the obstruction. If this doesn’t work, your next step may be to remove the toilet bowl or sink to get access to the main pipe. This can be a delicate job, so it is best to call in a professional plumber or drain professional at this point.
In cold weather, frozen pipes is one of the most common causes of backed-up or slow moving drains. This is especially common when homeowners have been away for some time and turned the thermostat right down. Water moving slowly and at a low temperature causes ice to form and expand, causing blockages that exert increasing pressure on the pipes. Wrap the pipes in special wrap heat tape and leave it in place for at least 24 hours or until the blockage is cleared. Also consider leaving the thermostat at a higher setting to keep warm water circulating whilst you’re away for a while.
If you find that your boiler starts making a noise, this is probably because of hot spots forming due to a build up of steam, caused in turn by air building up in the system. The hot spots sometimes make banging noises when they get too hot, which is where the noise in the boiler comes from. The root cause of the build up of air is a lack of water in the system, but it can also be caused by a build up of scale on the inner surface of the boiler, in which case feed a boiler cleanser into the expansion.
Drainage pipes helpfully tend to run in straight lines, which facilitate the sorting out of problems. Inspection chambers covered by manhole covers are placed at each joint, and these covers can be lifted with a crowbar to check for blockages and to clean the manhole of accumulated debris where necessary. If you find the inspection chamber empty, the blockage must be closer to the house, so move on to the next one in that direction, and if it is full move in the opposite direction to look for the blockage. Once the blockage area has been isolated, you can insert the plumber' snake down the pipe in the direction of the blockage to clear it.
The drain cleaning and sewer/water line repair professionals at Horizon Services encourage all homeowners especially cognizant, vigilant and proactive in the maintenance of their home's drains, pipes and lines. Be aware of what you are putting down sinks, garbage disposals and toilets -- particularly large solid objects, grease and hair. Keep your eyes and ears open for the signs of drain, sewer and water line damage or obstruction. Insulate your pipes in cold weather. If you suspect a problem, don't delay -- call a drain cleaning or sewer & water line contractor immediately to fix the problem before it becomes large and expensive.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Clog Prevention 101
Tips on Avoiding Common Household Drain ProblemsClogs in toilets, sinks, tubs and other fixtures and appliances may seem to come out of the blue, but they just don't happen without a reason. Nine times out of ten, they were caused by you and your family not paying attention to what or how much you are putting down your drains. But by staying alert and following these incredibly easy tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing a clogged drain in your home.
Avoiding Clogged Toilets:
To help prevent clogged toilets, keep in mind that the toilet is not a trash can. Food is never to be flushed down a toilet -- especially greasy or fibrous foods. Cigarette butts are another major no-no; they can easily get stuck in the nooks and crannies of your drain system.
Think paper products are OK? With the exception of toilet paper, the anwer is NO. Soap wrappers or women’s sanitary products should never be put into the toilet because they will expand and create blockage. Even paper towels and facial tissue should be avoided because they do not dissolve as easily as toilet paper. Keep a wastebasket in the bathroom for items like this.
If you have small children, keep toys out of the bathroom and the lid down. A child may decide that the toilet makes a good “swimming pool” for their toys, and the next thing you know you have a clogged toilet.
Eliminating Clogs in Showers and Sinks:
The most common clogging culprits in bathroom showers and sinks are soap scraps and human hair.
Hair is a real problem. It doesn’t deteriorate, and, in fact, it coils up like a spring and builds up to lodge in the drainpipe. Check the strainers at the sink or tub drain outlets to make sure they are in proper condition and not worn Good strainers will help keep hair from going into the drain and then lodging in clumps and blocking the drains. However, remember to remove the hair the strainer catches after each use, otherwise hair will work its way into the drain.
The problem with soap is when you get down to that last sliver, and it ends up down the drain and contributing to the clog. You can prevent this by remembering to throw the soap in the wastebasket before it becomes a tiny sliver.
Keeping Clogs Out of the Kitchen:
Of course, kitchen sinks are usually equipped with a strainer to keep food particles or other things from getting into the drain. If your sink doesn’t have a strainer, by all means buy one; it could be one of the best investments you ever made!
However, grease, which will pass through the strainer, is a common cause for kitchen sink clogs. When cooking fatty foods, try to capture the grease and poor it into a cup or bowl rather than letting it go into the drain when you clean up. When the grease hardens in the cup you can scrape it into the garbage. Also, after cleaning up greasy pots and plates, fill the sink with warm water and let it drain. This will help reduce grease build up.
And special care should be exercised in using a garbage disposal, if you have one. First, check the manual and make sure you know which food materials the disposal is designed to handle without becoming clogged. Second, when you put food scraps in the disposal, put them in loosely; tightly packed scraps can clog the machine. Third, make sure you’re running cold water (not hot) when you’re operating the disposal, and let the water keep running for a minute or two after you turn the disposal off to flush food residue out of the drainpipe. Also, when you’re not using the disposal, it’s a good idea to keep the cover on it so that stray kitchen items don’t fall in and either clog or damage the machine.
Minimizing Lint Clogs in the Laundry:
To prevent clogs in laundry machines, clean out the lint trap in the washing machine after each use. Additionally, you can install a nylon mesh lint trap over the washing machine’s discharge hose, to catch excess lint and keep it from entering the drain.
Also, after you’ve done your laundry, it’s a good idea to turn off the shutoff valves on the hot and cold water lines that bring water into your machine. This is an especially good idea if you’re going to be away from home for a while. Here’s why: when you leave the water on, these water hoses will be under constant pressure, and if the water hoses happen to burst when you’re away from home, you’ll come home to a flooded laundry area.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Beware of Chemical Drain Cleaners!
When You Use a Store-Bought Drain Cleaning Solution, You Could Be Playing With Fire!Dealing with a clogged pipe or slow-moving drain rates pretty high on the “ick” scale for many homeowners. Seeking ways to clear clogs without actually having to touch any undesirable substances, most of us reach for commercial chemical drain cleaning solutions. But while these over-the-counter liquid drain cleaners may be affordable and easy to use, they can ruin your plumbing, cause physical injury to you or your pets, and may actually do more harm than good if used incorrectly.
Most drain or pipe clogs are caused by hair, grease, soap, human waste, or other debris that collects in the plumbing. Store-bought chemical drain cleaners work on clogs by creating heat that dissolves the blockage. However, if the substance gets on porcelain, stainless steel, or aluminum bathroom fixtures it can cause corrosion that will ruin these surfaces. To prevent damage, pour the drain cleaner as close to the drain as you can and never use more than the minimum amount necessary to impact the clog. Most drain cleaning chemicals require that you add water to the cleaner or put the cleaner in standing water; do this slowly and carefully to avoid splashing.
Chemical drain cleaners can also damage PVC, old, or corroded pipes. If you have or think you have this kind of plumbing, an enzymatic drain cleaner is probably a wiser choice to resolve a clogged drain. While enzyme cleaners are sometimes less effective at dissolving clogs, they are much less corrosive to pipes and plumbing. You can also try a pipe snake if you’re nervous about using a drain cleaning solution.
If you have ever used a chemical drain cleaner, you know how noxious the fumes can be. To avoid breathing in these harmful gases, open the windows and doors in your bathroom and stand back as soon as you pour the cleaner into the drain. Never stand close to a clogged drain and watch the cleaner work.
Chemical drain cleaners contain a variety of different chemicals that can react severely if mixed. If you try one brand of cleaner and it doesn’t work, don’t try another kind. You could unintentionally set off a chemical reaction, release toxic fumes into the air, or even cause a sudden eruption of chemicals from your drain. Mixing different kinds of cleaners can also create reactions inside the pipes that will make it much more difficult—and in some cases even impossible—to remove clogs later manually.
Never, ever mix chemical drain cleaners with any product containing bleach. This can create deadly chlorine gas that is toxic to people and animals.
As with many things, you get what you pay for with chemical drain cleaners. An attractive price tag often hides an ineffective product with a low strength chemical mixture or unstable combinations of substances. You may actually spend more when you buy a discount brand product, as you’ll probably have to use many applications of it before you see results. It’s better to choose a mid- to high-priced product with a recognizable name and reputation for quality. An even better idea? Call a reputable drain cleaning contractor like Horizon Services. The drain cleaning pros at Horizon Services can unclog any blocked-up household drain quickly, cleanly, safely and inexpensively.
Related Drain Cleaning Information from Horizon Services...
Friday, July 16, 2010
Getting Rid of Clogs in Floor and Shower Drains
Floor and shower drains are designed to withstand far more abuse than sink and toilet drains. However, drains in floors and showers are also more likely to accumulate the kind of debris that commonly forms clogs. Hair, bits of soap, shampoo residue, and other waste materials get caught just below the surface of the drain and can be hard to remove.Shower drains -- whether in standing-only showers or tub and shower combinations -- may be the most frequent clogged drains in your house. With daily use, hair and other materials get caught in the drain and collect. Chances are if your shower is clogged it’s because of hair. The easiest way to try to get rid of the blockage is to pour a common, over-the-counter hair removal product like Nair or Vet down the drain. The depilatory will dissolve the hair and clear the clog. You can also try a simple solution of baking soda and plain white vinegar to dissolve the blockage. These solutions are much safer for you, your drains and your pipes then lye, Drano and other store-bought liquid drain cleaning products.
If your shower drain is clogged all the time, you may want to purchase a new drain cover or an inexpensive plastic catch (like the ones you use in kitchen sinks without garbage disposals) that’s specifically designed for showers. These will prevent more hair from going down the drain and should reduce the frequency of clogging.
If you’ve tried all of this and are still having problems, you should think about calling in a drain cleaning professional. Your drain might need to be taken apart in order to remove the clog; if you don’t know how to do this, it’s best left to a professional plumber. Be sure to ask about the general condition of the drain and your main sewer line, too. Corrosion, weakened couplings and connections, root infiltration, and other situations can affect the shower drain’s function.
Clogged floor drains are a special kind of plumbing matter. Typically found in laundry rooms, basements, and garages, these drains are often the final resting place for all kinds of nasty debris—lint, sand, oil, dirt, and other solid materials—as well as wastewater from washing machines, air conditioners, water heaters, and more. These substances can collect and harden in the drain; even powerful commercial chemical drain cleaners are not enough to get rid of clogs that have crystallized. Furthermore, if left untreated, a clogged floor drain can cause water to back up into your home causing expensive damage.
If you suspect a clogged floor drain, rent a power pipe snake that will break through the clog with special cutting blades. You may have to take apart some of the drain assembly, as many floor drains are designed to make accessing clogs or blockages easier. However, knowing how to disassemble your drain and knowing where to apply the snake can be tricky business. If you’re unsure about this method, it’s best to call in a plumbing and drain cleaning contractor. A plumbing and drain professional will not only get rid of the clog, but will also check the general state of your pipes and give you some tips about avoiding problems in the future.
Related Drain Cleaning Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, June 7, 2010
Are Plastic Pipes Right For Your Home?
Get the Lead Out...More Plumbing Contractors are Pushing Plastic Piping Than Ever Before!Remember that famous line from The Graduate? "I only have one word for you, Ben...plastics." These days, plastics has become THE WORD when it comes to pipe material for your home's plumbing, drain and sewer line systems.
We all know that lead pipes are bad. Thankfully, most new homes and remodeled plumbing systems now use alternatives including copper, bronze, and iron pipes. Plastic pipes are yet another option that is quickly gaining popularity with homeowners and plumbing contractors.
Plastic piping is versatile. They can be made virtually without joints, which means no leaks, easy installation, less maintenance, and fewer problems down the road.
Because it’s so adaptable, plastic plumbing is generally cheaper than other options and you can save significantly on labor and installation charges.
Extensive testing has proven that plastic is durable and hard-wearing, lasting a hundred years or more in some cases. Plastic pipes outperform copper and other metals by dozens of years.
As an environmentally responsible option, plastic pipes are well beyond any other material. They can be recycled or made from post-consumer content, which makes them a green choice for concerned homeowners.
So it’s clear that there are lots of advantages to using plastic pipes over metal or other pipe materials. But is plastic piping really the right choice for your home? To answer that question, it’s important to know a little bit about the different kinds of plastic pipes that are available.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) are the most popular choices for plastic plumbing pipes. PVC is that stiff, rigid white plastic that we’ve all seen in various applications, from furniture to toys. PVC pipe is made from a plastic and vinyl combination material. The pipes are durable, hard to damage, and long lasting. A PVC pipe does not rust, rot, or wear over time. For that reason, PVC piping is most commonly used in water systems, underground wiring, and sewer lines. PVC pipe can be glued together with a special chemical solvent or fused and melted together by heat.
CPVC pipes are similar to PVC pipes but they are manufactured with a special chlorination production process. CPVC pipes share most of the features and properties of standard PVC pipes, but with a few differences. CPVC generally offers greater chemical and heat resistance. Structurally, CPVC is more ductile than standard PVC, providing greater crush and corrosion resistance.
Polyethylene (PE) is a flexible plastic that can be bent and shaped into just about any configuration. This kind of pipe can be curved around corners, which eliminates the need for fittings and significantly reduces the risk of leaks. Sections of PE pipe are usually joined using clamps or are melted together using heat. PE is slightly translucent and colorless; it’s a popular choice for geothermal heating systems, sprinkler systems, and other kinds of water supply systems.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a hard black plastic pipe material that is similar to PVC, but generally cheaper. ABS is only appropriate for use in drainage lines and systems.
The growing popularity of plastic plumbing pipes has turned the head of many a plumbing contractor so it’s likely that yours will have an opinion about its use and appropriateness for your home. If plastic pipes are an option you’d like to consider, be sure to talk it over with your plumbing contractor. Only a trained professional can tell you if plastic is a smart way to go and should be able to give you more information about the types of plastic pipes that could work in your home.
If you have questions about whether plastic piping and pipe material are right for your home, contact Horizon Services. Our experienced plumbing, drain and sewer line professionals can give you a complete overview of plastic piping as well as other pipe material and help you make an informed decision.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Simple Plumbing Repairs You Can Handle!
Do-it-yourself plumbing generally falls into three basic categories: drips, clogs and leaks. Even if the only tools you own are a flimsy plunger and a rusty wrench there are a few easy bathroom repairs you can handle on your own.A dripping faucet is one of the easiest plumbing problems to recognize because it can drive you crazy. The simplest fix for a drip is to first make sure the faucet has been turned off completely. It sounds obvious, but over time the washer that seals off the water that flows through the pipes and out of the faucet can wear and will become less effective. Start small by replacing the washer, a small, round piece of rubber located just inside the faucet. You can find replacement washers at any hardware or home improvement store in the plumbing section. If a new washer doesn’t stop the drip the problem may be a broken seat, the piece of brass that rests directly behind the washer. In this case, you’d be wise to have a professional plumber to take a look. The worst thing you can do for a dripping faucet is try to pull the fixture handle tighter. You could end up causing more damage or breaking the fixture itself.
Simple clogs make standing water in sinks, tubs or showers drain more slowly or prevent drainage altogether. First, try running hot water from the tap for five to ten minutes. This can clear small bits of debris that have collected in the pipes. If the drain is still clogged, fill the sink or tub with a couple inches of hot water and use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. Be sure the plunger is covering the drain completely and push straight down and pull straight up several times.
If a plunger doesn’t work, try a liquid or powder drain cleaner. You can purchase these at any supermarket, hardware, discount, or home improvement retailer; there are even “green” options that contain natural substances and fewer harsh chemicals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely and flush pipes with scalding water following treatment. For really stubborn clogs, you may need to take apart a section of the pipe assembly to get at the blockage. If you don’t have the right equipment to do this, if the problem area is not easily accessible, or if water is backing up or won’t drain at all, call a pro.
Leaks are the most potentially dangerous kind of plumbing problem because they can indicate much more serious trouble. Signs that you have a water leak include staining on walls or ceilings, pooling water under sinks or around fixtures, and suddenly poor water pressure. For visible leaks, try tightening plumbing fittings or replacing washers. If you notice water damage on your walls or ceilings, you should probably consult a plumber. Whatever you do, address leaks as soon as you notice them; leaving a leak too long can cause severe water damage, staining, mold and mildew build-up that may require extensive repairs or renovation.
Related Information...
Friday, February 26, 2010
Regular Septic System Maintenance is a Must!
There are more than 25 million homes in America that have a septic system. If you live in one of them, you may already know that regular maintenance is the only way to keep your septic tank functioning properly. Thankfully, maintaining your septic system is pretty easy, so long as you remember to be consistent with a schedule of treatment and preventative care.A septic tank is actually a sophisticated waste management method that stores and removes waste from your home. Bacteria in the septic tank break down sewage and keep the system functioning properly. When there aren’t enough organisms present in the septic tank, sewage builds up much faster than normal and can cause clogs in the system pipes that force waste back-ups.
The easiest and most effective way to ensure there are enough bacteria and enzymes in your septic system is to use a natural additive like Rid-X or Liquid Plumr Septic System Treatment, which is usually poured straight into a toilet and flushed into the tank. These and other substances like them will add billions of waste-destroying bacteria to your tank without harming the existing enzymes or polluting ground water.
Most septic system manufacturers require once-monthly treatments to guarantee the best results because as water flows into the septic tank each time a toilet it flushed or a drain is opened, it washes away the bacteria and enzymes in the system. Replenishing these bacteria regularly will help your septic system maintain an appropriate amount of beneficial organisms. So mark your calendar, set an email reminder, or leave a big note on the fridge—do whatever it takes to remember this one simple step and you can save yourself a lot of trouble down the road.
Over time, septic tanks and pipes can deteriorate and weaken, tree roots can infiltrate the system causing cracks, and waste matter can form blockages that bacteria can’t reach. Just like you should see your doctor for a physical each year, your septic system should have regular appointments with a dedicated septic system expert to make sure there are no underlying, unseen problems that could lead to serious damage. Septic tank repairs can be pricey, but these costs are nothing compared to the expenses that will surely start to add up if something goes wrong. Then, you’ll be looking at not only extensive repairs to the septic system itself, but also the additional charges associated with clean-up, ground water testing, sanitization, and more.
You should have your septic tank pumped at least once every couple of years (even if you’re religious about monthly additives); an expert with a high-powered pump can remove a lot more waste at a much faster speed than a billion microscopic bacteria working for a full month.When it comes to septic systems, prevention is much easier and more cost efficient than dealing with problems as they arise. Setting a regular septic system maintenance schedule and sticking to it will save you the expense and embarrassment of a messy septic malfunction.
More From Horizon Services...
Monday, January 18, 2010
Plumbing Emergencies: When a Clogged Drain Backs Up Into Your Home
"Help! My toilet is overflowing onto the floor and it just won’t stop! I tried shuting the water off underneath the toilet and it helped a little, but it still keeps flowing. I'm up to my ankles in sewage! What do I do?"You have no idea how many times we at Horizon Services have received that phone call from frantic homeowners! If your toilet starts to back up and overflow, don't panic. The important thing is to get the overflow under control and to identify the source of the problem. That means keeping a cool head and taking an analytical approach.
First off, whenever your toilet overflows, it is a good idea to turn off the water to the toilet because it eliminates any more water from being used until the problem is fixed. The shut off is beneath the bowl, usually on the left side.
Did the overflow begin when you flushed the toilet? When your toilet overflows right after you flush it’s usually a sign that the toilet itself has a blockage. If it turns out that the clog is in the toilet itself, you could try using a toilet plunger to move the blockage through the toilet. That may be all you need to rectify the situation. Give it a few plunges to see if clears the clog. If not, don't continue -- it will probably just make things worse. Call a plumbing and drain professional; they can unclog the toilet quickly, inexpensively and safely.
What if your toilet keeps overflowing even when you haven’t flushed it? Usually this means the clog is in a drain pipe, possibly your main drain pipe or sewer line. If this is the case, when you run water from any fixture such as a shower, the water will back up from the main drain pipe and come out of your toilet bowl because it is the lowest point in your drain system. Of course, this makes it seem like the toilet is the problem, when in fact it’s your main drain pipe or sewer line that isn’t letting water go down. If you stop using water at other fixtures, the toilet will stop overflowing.
If it appears that your main drain or sewer might be clogged, call a drain cleaning professional as soon as possible. Powerful drain clearing equipment is required to unblock a main drain.
If you have a private septic system, the problem may be that your septic tank is full and is causing your main drain to back up into your home. If your septic tank has not been pumped within the last eighteen months, you should have it done to see if this is the cause of your problem. Even if you discover the problem was not in the septic tank, taking care of past due maintenance on your septic system is money well spent.
It's also very possible that the problem is not on your end. If you are on a town sewer system it is possible that the city sewer is blocked and sewage from your home and or your neighbors’ homes is backing up into your home. Check with your neighbors to see if they are having any problem with their main drains. If they are, be sure to call your town sewer department. If your neighbors or town say they are having problems, your town will take care of unclogging the sewer pipe. If raw sewage has backed into your home, you can call a professional cleaning company to handle the clean up and properly sanitize your home.
Related Information:
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
What's The Story on Low Flow Toilets?
Low flow toilets have been touted as a way to cut down on water usage while whittling utility costs. However, critics question the real value of these low flow commodes. Sometimes the toilets need to be flushed two or even three times to completely clear waste—and doesn’t that sort of defeat the purpose?It has been estimated that we Americans flush more than six billion gallons of water down our toilets every day. That’s a lot. Previously, residential toilets sold in the United States were designed to use about 3.5 to 7 gallons of water per flush. Most low flow toilets use about 1.6 gallons per flush at most.
In order to really understand the effectiveness of low flow toilets, we need to think about how often the average American uses the bathroom.
Obviously, going to the bathroom is not an exact science. It’s pretty safe to say, however, that the majority of people in the US pass liquid waste more frequently than solid waste in a typical day. For the sake of this example, let’s just assume that the average American uses the toilet six times a day—five times for urination, once for a bowel movement. With an older toilet, using 3.5 gallons of water per flush multiplied by six flushes, that’s 21 gallons of water consumed in a single day.
One of the biggest complaints lodged against low flow toilets is that it sometimes takes more than one flush to fully expel waste—particularly solid waste—from the bowl. So if we factor that into our example and say that those same six bathroom visits require a total of ten flushes with a low flow toilet (five for the liquid waste—because even the weakest low flow toilets should have no problem voiding a little extra liquid—and five more for a single solid waste event), at 1.6 gallons of water used per flush that’s still only 16 gallons a day. No matter how you slice it, 16 is significantly less than 21 and in this scenario would save almost 2000 gallons of water a year.
Keep in mind, too, that low flow toilets have come a long way over the past fifteen years. Sure, the first models left much to be desired in terms of complexity of design and functionality. In fact, most manufacturers simply added parts to existing fixtures, which sometimes inhibited the reduced water flow technology. Now, though, low flow toilets are much more comprehensive, and other elements like the shape of the bowl and configuration of the tank mechanisms have been revamped to work more effectively with water conservation features.
Several university studies have proven that today’s average low flow toilet is just as effective at removing waste, if not more so, than a standard commode. You may have to shop around and do some research to find a model that doesn’t require repetitive flushing or developing a close, personal relationship with your plunger, but they are out there.
Got a Toilet Problem? Call Horizon Services!
Broken toilets, running toilets, leaking toilets, clogged toilets, toilets that won't flush, toilets that need to be installed...the plumbing and drain professionals at Horizon Services can handle virtually any toilet job under the sun!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Flush Away Toilet Clogs
Nobody wants to be the one to have to unclog the toilet. Not only is a malfunctioning commode extremely inconvenient, but removing the problem can be really unsanitary. It is possible, though, to safely and cleanly deal with toilet clogs. If you’ve flushed once without success, don’t try it again. This will only pump more water into the bowl from the toilet tank, raising the water level and causing a messy overflow. It may take a while, but the toilet will eventually drain on its own so avoid the urge to keep flushing until the clog moves.
This is definitely one of those jobs where you’ll want a pair of good quality rubber gloves. If you don’t have cleaning gloves, even a cheap pair of latex gloves will do in a pinch. It’s also a good idea to cover the bathroom floor if you can. Newspapers, old towels you don’t plan to use again, or rags are perfect because you can simply toss them in the trash later.
Hot water and liquid dish soap can help break up most clogs. Microwave or boil a few quarts of water; if you boil the water you’ll want to let it cool a bit before proceeding with this method, until it’s roughly the temperature of a cup of coffee. Add a squirt of dish soap to the toilet bowl and slowly pour in the hot water. If this doesn’t work the first time and the water in the bowl is not overflowing, try once more. If you live in an apartment, skip this method.
Enzymes are a good option as long as you have another toilet you can use while they do their work. These biological materials eat away at waste and are often used to maintain septic systems. You can find enzymes at most home improvement or hardware stores, but they’ll have to sit in the bowl at least overnight in order to dissolve a clog so you should only try this if you have another bathroom you can use in the meantime.
Plungers, while an old standby in many bathrooms, are not exactly the most sanitary method of clearing a clogged toilet, but if you’ve tried hot water and can’t wait for enzymes it may be a reasonable option. If you must use a plunger, invest in a large, good quality device. The bigger the plunger, the better it’ll work which means less splashing, less mess, and less time with your face down in the bowl.
If you’ve tried a plunger to no avail, a pipe snake or auger is the next logical step. Not quite as messy as a plunger, quicker than an enzyme treatment, and generally more effective than hot water and soap, a snake feeds a long tube down the toilet drain and into the pipes. The end of the tube pushes against the clog, clearing it from your pipes and letting the water flow freely again. You can buy a small pipe snake at most home improvement or hardware stores for less than $10. For larger jobs you can rent a bigger snake.
If these methods fail to clear your clogged toilet, STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING; chances are your efforts will just compound the problem and lead to more expensive repair work. Stubborn toilet clogs require professional drain cleaning services like those offered by Horizon Services. Our plumbing and drain cleaning technicians have the tools and training to quickly and safely unclog any toilet.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Simple Clog Removal to Keep Your Pipes Flowing Freely
Clogged and slow running drains are most definitely a nuisance and can cause serious damage to pipes, fixtures or appliances if left too long. Grease, hair, food, soap waste and other materials can easily accumulate in pipes and drains. If detected and addressed early, removing these common clogs can be an easy fix for even the most inexperienced do-it-yourselfer. And regular cleaning and maintainance of your drain systems is a simple, effective way to prevent costly problems amd repair work down the road.The most popular tool for removing blockages is a common plunger, which you can purchase at just about any home improvement, hardware or discount store for less than $10. Put the plunger over the drain and press down firmly. Pull straight up with gentle force. Repeat the pushing and pulling a couple of times. Adding a little water to the sink, toilet or tub can help to create suction around the drain, making the plunger work more effectively.
Chemical drain solutions are widely available at hardware and grocery stores. These affordable cleaners are easy to use—just pour, wait and flush—and are great for removing small clogs or stubborn build-up. Always read the product label carefully, though, as some of these chemicals can be corrosive to plastic plumbing or are not recommended for use in kitchen sinks.
If you’ve tried a plunger and a chemical drain opener with little success, it may be time to use a pipe cleaner or snake. These specialty devices are easy to find or rent from home improvement or plumbing supply retailers and are perfect for getting rid of clogs close to the drain. The tool is inserted into the drain and maneuvered until the clog is pushed away and out.
Here are a few simple recipes for dissolving clogs caused by grease or debris buildup:
- Combine a pound of powder detergent with three gallons of boiling water. Hold the container close to the drain and pour slowly to prevent scalding. Flush the drain by running water from the tap a few minutes afterward.
- Baking soda and vinegar is also an effective drain opener. Pour ½ cup of regular household baking soda into the drain, then add ½ cup white vinegar; cover the drain if you can. Let the mixture stand in the drain for several minutes before adding boiling water, at least five or six cups. Never try this method immediately after using a commercial drain opener, as the baking soda and vinegar can cause a harmful reaction when they come in contact with the chemicals.
- You can also use salt and baking soda to dissolve a grease clog. Pour ½ cup coarse salt and ½ cup baking soda into the drain, followed by about six cups of boiling hot water. Let the mixture sit for at least eight hours and then flush with water from the tap.
More Information on Clogs and Drains...
Friday, October 16, 2009
You Have Just Entered The Horizon Comfort Zone!
On behalf of Horizon Services, Inc. -- the premier plumbing, heating and air conditoning company in Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland -- we thank you for visiting our brand new blog, The Horizon Comfort Zone.
Our vision for The Comfort Zone is to create a resource where homeowners can go for timely tips, news, articles and information related not just to to our company's core services - plumbing, heating, air conditioning, drain cleaning and sewer & water line replacement -- but to a wide variety of useful topics pertaining to the home. Energy-efficiency, saving money and home improvements are just a few of the additional areas we hope to explore with each post.
At Horizon Services, we believe that an educated, informed consumer is the best customer. Our goal with The Comfort Zone is to give consumers the knowledge they need to make wise purchase and lifestyle decisions for their homes and families. We hope that you choose to visit us frequently, and that The Comfort Zone can help you have the most healthy, happy and comfortable home possible.
Our vision for The Comfort Zone is to create a resource where homeowners can go for timely tips, news, articles and information related not just to to our company's core services - plumbing, heating, air conditioning, drain cleaning and sewer & water line replacement -- but to a wide variety of useful topics pertaining to the home. Energy-efficiency, saving money and home improvements are just a few of the additional areas we hope to explore with each post.
At Horizon Services, we believe that an educated, informed consumer is the best customer. Our goal with The Comfort Zone is to give consumers the knowledge they need to make wise purchase and lifestyle decisions for their homes and families. We hope that you choose to visit us frequently, and that The Comfort Zone can help you have the most healthy, happy and comfortable home possible.
Best Wishes,
Dave Geiger and Mark Aitken
Owners, Horizon Services
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