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It’s time to prepare extensively for anything wrong that can happen with your drains. If you’d like, scheduling plumbing maintenance or a video pipe inspection is a great way to get this done, and we just talked about this in our previous blog if you’d like to take extra steps to ensure you’re in good shape.
But for everyone else, we think it’s important that we discuss the two most useful plumbing tools that homeowners should have somewhere. One of them is the classic plunger, for both sinks and toilets. The second is the drain snake, an essential tool used for removing tough clogging materials when they’re causing you trouble.
While these tools won’t replace a licensed plumber in Tampa, FL, they might help get you past the holiday season so you can call us at a less busy time next year. Here’s how these tools work and why you’ll want to use them.
The Best Plumbing Tools for Home Use
The holiday season is a time for gathering with family and friends, often accompanied by festive meals and extra houseguests. While this creates cherished memories, it also puts increased demand on your home’s plumbing system. From kitchen sinks handling more grease and food scraps to bathrooms accommodating extra guests, your drains can experience higher-than-usual stress. This makes tools like drain snakes and plungers essential for homeowners.
How a Plunger Works
A plunger is one of the simplest yet most effective tools for clearing clogs. Using suction and pressure, it dislodges blockages by creating a seal over the drain. When you push and pull on the handle, water and air force the obstruction to move, ultimately restoring flow. Plungers are especially effective for clearing minor blockages in toilets and sinks. They’re also affordable and easy to use, making them a go-to solution for quick fixes.
The Role of a Drain Snake
Drain snakes, or plumbing augers, tackle tougher clogs that a plunger can’t dislodge. The tool features a long, flexible metal cable with a coiled end. By feeding the snake into the drain, you can reach deeper blockages, breaking them apart or pulling them out. Drain snakes are particularly useful for hair clogs in bathroom drains or grease buildup in kitchen pipes.
Why These Tools Are Vital During the Holidays
With increased foot traffic in your home, it’s not uncommon for items like food particles, grease, or even holiday decorations to accidentally make their way into your plumbing system. Waiting for a plumber during peak holiday times can be stressful and expensive. By having a plunger and drain snake on hand, you can quickly address clogs and avoid more severe plumbing issues.
Proactive Holiday Plumbing Tips
- Use drain strainers: Prevent debris like food scraps and hair from entering your pipes.
- Dispose of grease properly: Pour it into a container to solidify before throwing it away instead of washing it down the sink.
- Educate guests: Politely remind them to avoid flushing non-flushable items like wipes or sanitary products.
With the right tools and preventative measures, you can ensure your holiday season remains stress and clog-free!
For any plumbing needs, schedule an appointment with The Clean Plumbers. The one with the bubbles on the trucks!