You may have heard that combining baking soda and vinegar can clear a clogged sink or tub drain. However, whether this method works depends on a few factors, and in some cases, using these substances may worsen the problem. Let’s explore what you should know before trying the baking soda and vinegar method for unclogging a drain.
Why People Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
The idea is that combining these two items will create a reaction that generates enough pressure to push the clog further down the drain. Start by pouring baking soda into the drain you want to clear, followed by vinegar. Next, wait about 20 minutes before flushing the mixture with hot water.
Why This Method Doesn’t Always Work
In some cases, the reaction between baking soda and vinegar isn’t strong enough to push the clog down the drain. It’s important to understand that these ingredients don’t actually remove the clog; they only move it along. This means that whatever is in the pipe may simply get stuck in a harder-to-remove location. Lastly, if the clog is caused by a solid object, such as a kid’s toy, the only way to eliminate the obstruction is to physically remove it.
Pressure Changes May Harm Some Pipes
You have limited control over the pressure generated when baking soda and vinegar combine. The increased pressure can worsen if you cap the drain after pouring these substances in. Ultimately, this could damage PVC pipes, which are more fragile compared to the lead pipes used in the past.
Other Issues To Consider
Another potential drawback of using baking soda and vinegar is that this combination is generally ineffective when a sink or tub is full of water. The water can dilute these materials before they have a chance to work their way through the drain. In fact, simply pouring them into a sink or tub with any standing water or excess moisture can reduce their effectiveness.
Finally, using too much baking soda can actually make the clog harder to remove. When baking soda comes into contact with the clog, it can cause it to form into a single hard mass. Therefore, even if you pour vinegar in a timely manner, you may not be able to move or dissolve it.
Alternatives to This Method
There are several methods you can use to unclog a drain without resorting to baking soda or vinegar. For example, you might choose to remove the p-trap, clean it out, or replace it.
Using a drain snake might also help remove the clog. A drain snake can grab onto the clog and extract the material from inside the pipe. They are particularly effective because they come in different sizes, 25 to 50 feet being the most common for residential use, more than enough to reach clogs that are close to the drain.
You can also try using a plunger to clear the clog. Similar to the vinegar and baking soda method, a plunger creates pressure that can push the clog down the drain, hopefully clearing it completely.
When To Call a Professional
If you’re unsure about the depth or composition of the clog, it’s best to call a professional. Understanding the location of the clog and whether it’s caused by organic material or a solid object is crucial for determining the right approach. Additionally, if you lack the skills or experience to handle the issue confidently, seeking help is a wise choice.
Plumbers have access to industry-specific tools and equipment that are better suited for clearing drains. Chief among these tools are the hydro jetter and the drain snake with an auger. Plumbers first use the drain snake with an auger to break apart the clog, followed by using the hydro jetter, which uses high-pressure water to push waste and blockages through the municipal sewer.
If you need plumbing assistance in Bohemia, NY, don’t hesitate to call the team at Fix-a-Leak today. In addition to unclogging drains, we can repair damaged pipes, install new pipes, and provide leak detection services. This allows us to help keep your home in safe working order for as long as you own it. Contact Fix-a-Leak today to get one of our expert plumbers to help you quickly unclog a drain!
