3 Ways to Fix Clogged Drains for Salt Lake City Residents

Have you been frantically searching: How to unclog a shower drain? How to unclog a sink drain?

Those pesky clogs sneak up when you least expect them, usually right when you’re about to enjoy a hot shower or just finished a full sink of dishes.

Few things are more frustrating than a drain that stubbornly refuses to, well … drain. But before you reach for the phone to call an emergency plumber in Salt Lake City know there are some simple, effective ways you can do to tackle the drain clog yourself.

From powerful household items you probably already have to techniques you’d never think to try, Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling has compiled three go-to tricks that will help get water flowing freely again in no time.

Ready to dive into the fascinating world of DIY drain unclogging? Trust us; you’ll want these tips up your sleeve when a clog strikes!

How to Unclog Drains

Clogged drains are a common household issue that can quickly become a significant inconvenience if not addressed. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a clogged shower, or a backed-up toilet, handling the blockage quickly and efficiently is essential.

Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling has helped countless homeowners around Salt Lake City to restore their plumbing to full functionality. Here, we outline three effective methods for fixing clogged drains and keeping your plumbing system running smoothly.

1. Using Natural Solutions to Dissolve Minor Clogs

Sometimes, the simplest solutions work wonders. Many minor clogs can be tackled using natural household ingredients, which are often readily available and free from harsh chemicals that could damage your pipes.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution
This classic remedy combines baking soda’s natural abrasive power with vinegar’s fizzing action to help dislodge blockages.

Here’s how to use it:

• Pour half a cup of baking soda directly into the drain.
• Follow with half a cup of vinegar and immediately cover the drain with a plug or rag to contain the reaction.
• Let the mixture sit for at least 15–30 minutes to allow the bubbling action to break up any debris.
• Flush the drain with hot water to clear any remaining residue.

This solution is particularly effective for mild blockages caused by soap scum, grease, and minor buildup. It’s an environmentally friendly way to clean drains and can be repeated monthly to keep them clear and odor-free!

Hot Water and Dish Soap for Grease Clogs
For kitchen sink clogs, grease is a frequent culprit. A mixture of hot water and a few drops of dish soap can help to cut through the grease and loosen minor clogs.

How to unclog a sink drain with soap:

• Boil water and pour a generous amount down the drain.
• Follow with a few tablespoons of dish soap.
• Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with additional hot water.

This simple method helps remove grease, cooking oils, and food particles that may be causing your sink to drain slowly.

2. Using Tools for More Stubborn Clogs

If natural solutions don’t do the trick, it’s time to bring in some basic tools. Investing in a few essential plumbing tools can be worthwhile for dealing with stubborn clogs without the need for heavy-duty chemicals.

The Plunger

The plunger is a common tool for clearing blockages in toilets, sinks, and shower drains. It works by creating suction and pressure to dislodge whatever is clogging the pipe.

Here’s the best way to use it:

• If using it on a sink, fill it with enough water to cover the plunger’s rubber head, creating a seal.
• Firmly press down on the plunger and quickly lift it up several times to create suction.
• Repeat until the drain begins to clear.
• Flush or rinse the sink with hot water to ensure the clog is cleared.

Plungers are highly effective for more significant clogs, especially in toilets where debris buildup might be obstructing the drain.

Drain Snake or Auger

For tougher clogs, a drain snake (or plumber’s auger) is an effective tool to reach blockages further down the drain. This tool is particularly handy for hair clogs in bathroom drains and can be a lifesaver for stubborn toilet blockages.

How to use a drain snake:

• Insert the snake or auger into the drain and slowly turn the handle clockwise to push it deeper into the pipe.
• As you feel resistance, you’ve likely reached the clog. Continue to twist the snake to latch onto the blockage. The blockage may break apart and drain away.
• Once the drain is clear, turn the snake handle counter-clockwise to retract the snake and remove it from the drain.
• Run water down the drain to ensure the clog is gone.

Using a drain snake is a great way to clear clogs without chemicals, especially when dealing with hair and other organic material in shower and bathroom drains.

3. Preventative Measures

Practicing good drain habits can help prevent your pipes from becoming clogged. Follow these preventative drain measures recommended by the EPA:

• Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain, as they can solidify and cause blockages.
• Only flush human waste and toilet paper, as other items—even “flushable” wipes—can clog pipes.
• Investing in drain screens or strainers can help keep foreign objects, hair, and food particles from entering the drain in the first place.
• Regularly flushing your drains with hot water (especially in the kitchen) and cleaning out screens will go a long way in preventing buildup.

These small actions can make a big difference in maintaining clean and clear drains.

Scheduling Professional Drain Cleaning in Salt Lake City

A professional drain cleaning service is highly recommended for homeowners dealing with recurring clogs or slow drains. Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling offers comprehensive drain cleaning services to the greater Salt Lake City community.

Professional cleaning goes beyond clearing minor clogs. Our team uses advanced equipment to ensure that pipes are free from debris, mineral deposits, and any obstructions that could lead to future issues.

Professional services also come with expert insight into potential plumbing problems. A skilled technician can identify signs of pipe deterioration or damage, helping you avoid costly repairs down the line.

Hydro Jetting in Salt Lake City, for Persistent Buildup

In some cases, clogs may be due to hardened debris and mineral deposits within the pipes, which a regular drain snake cannot fully clear. Hydro jetting is an advanced technique that uses a high-pressure stream of water to clear away even the most stubborn obstructions, including grease, roots, and solidified debris.

This method not only clears clogs but also provides a thorough cleaning of the entire pipe, restoring optimal flow and preventing future buildup.

Hydro jetting is a powerful solution that Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling can provide for Salt Lake City homeowners facing persistent clog issues. By calling in a professional, you can have peace of mind knowing that your pipes are clear and your plumbing system is working at its best.

Contact Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling

Fixing clogged drains doesn’t have to be daunting. Many DIY methods, from natural solutions to simple tools, can help restore the flow to your drains.

However, if you’re dealing with recurring blockages, professional drain cleaning from Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling is the best solution for long-term results. By addressing clogs early and maintaining your plumbing system, you can keep your home’s pipes flowing freely and avoid major plumbing headaches down the road.

Call us at 801-923-7486 or request service online when the tips from your “how to unclog a drain” search don’t fix your issue, and you need professional drain cleaning services in Salt Lake City, or surrounding communities.