Boiling water is a common household remedy for unclogging drains. The idea behind it is that the hot water will dissolve any grease or soap buildup that may be causing the clog, and flush it down the drain. But is boiling water really an effective solution for unclogging a drain? At Five Star Plumbing, a plumber in Harford County, we’ve had our fair share of clogged drains and understand the inconvenience it brings to your home. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether or not boiling water can unclog a drain, and what other options are available if it doesn’t work.
How Boiling Water Works for Unclogging Drains
Boiling water can be effective in clearing a clog from a drain, but it’s important to understand how it works. The hot water works by melting or softening any fat or grease buildup in the pipe, allowing it to flow more easily down the drain. The heat can also help dissolve soap scum or other materials that may be causing the clog. However, it’s important to note that boiling water should not be used on PVC pipes, as the high temperature can cause them to warp or melt.
How to Use Boiling Water to Unclog a Drain
If you want to try using boiling water to unclog a drain, follow these steps:
1. Boil a large pot of water on the stove.
2. Pour the hot water down the drain in stages, allowing each pour to work its way through the drain before adding more. It’s important to pour slowly and steadily to avoid splashing.
3. Repeat this process several times, allowing the hot water to work its way through the drain each time.
4. Check the drain to see if it’s unclogged. If it’s still clogged, it’s time to move on to other methods.
When Boiling Water May Not Work
While boiling water can be effective in some cases, it may not be enough to clear a stubborn clog. Here are a few reasons why boiling water may not work.
1. The clog is too far down the drain: If the clog is located further down the drain pipe, boiling water may not be able to reach it. In this case, you may need to use a plumbing snake or other tool to reach the clog.
2. The clog is caused by a solid object: If the clog is caused by a solid object, such as a toy or piece of jewelry, boiling water will not be effective. In fact, it may make the problem worse by pushing the object further down the drain.
3. The clog is caused by tree roots: If the clog is caused by tree roots in the sewer line, boiling water will not be effective. In fact, it can actually damage the pipes by causing them to crack or warp.
4. The drain is corroded: If the drain pipe is corroded, boiling water may not be effective. In fact, it may cause the pipe to burst or leak, leading to more serious problems.
Alternatives to Boiling Water for Unclogging Drains
If boiling water doesn’t work to unclog your drain, there are a few other methods you can try. Here are a few options:
1. Baking Soda and Vinegar: This is a popular and effective method for unclogging drains. Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to help loosen any buildup. Next, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. The mixture will foam and fizz, which helps break up any clogs. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then pour another pot of boiling water down the drain.
2. Plunger: A plunger can be effective in dislodging a clog in a sink or toilet. To use a plunger, fill the sink or toilet with enough water to cover the plunger.
Do you need help unclogging your drain?
Five-Star Plumbing has been proudly serving the Harford county and Baltimore county area for over 30 years.We offer many different services, including well pump services, water treatment, plumbing repair and installation, outdoor plumbing services, drain cleaning, and water heater services. Our technicians will provide you with a flat rate fee up front so you know exactly what to expect. No hidden fees. We’ll explain what we plan to do and why we plan to do it, so you know exactly what’s going on.
Call us today at 410-836-0118 to schedule an appointment! You can also submit an online form at plumber-baltimore.com