Drain Clogged by Hair? Stay Calm and Follow These Steps

Dealing with a hair-clogged drain can be a frustrating experience, but before you reach for harsh chemicals or start pulling out your hair, there are effective steps suggested by the experts at Sewer Surgeon you can take to resolve the issue safely and efficiently.

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How to Avoid Hair Clogs in Your Drain

Prevention is key when it comes to mitigating the likelihood of hair clogs in your drains. Our seasoned plumbing professionals have encountered it all and can offer valuable advice on preventing hair clogs in your drains. Here are some simple prevention measures:

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• Install Drain Covers

Purchase drain screens from hardware or home goods stores and place them in every shower or tub in your home. Consider using underneath drain screens designed specifically to trap hair.

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• Remove Hair from Sinks & Showers

Before showering or bathing, brush excess hair off your head to prevent loose hairs from accumulating on the tub floor. Keep an eye out for any stray hairs and wipe them away from the drain.

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• Flush Your Drains

Coordinate with your family members to close all bathtub, shower, and sink drains. Fill each tub or sink with warm water, and with someone standing next to each drain and toilet, simultaneously open the drains and flush the toilets to clear them all at once.

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• Regular Maintenance

Make it a habit to perform regular maintenance on your drains to prevent hair clogs. This includes using enzymatic drain cleaners monthly to break down organic matter and keep drains flowing smoothly.

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• Avoid Excessive Product Use

Minimise the use of hair products like gels, mousses, and hair sprays, as these can contribute to hair clogs by adhering to already trapped hair in the drain.

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• Trim Hair Before Showering

Trim your hair regularly to reduce the amount of hair that sheds and ends up in your drains. Shorter hair is less likely to create clogs compared to longer strands.

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• Use a Drain Strainer

Invest in a drain strainer or catcher to place over your shower or tub drain. These devices capture hair before it has a chance to enter the drain, preventing clogs and reducing the need for frequent cleaning.

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• Flush with Hot Water

Once a week, flush your drains with hot water to help dissolve any accumulated soap scum, grease, or hair buildup. Hot water can effectively loosen and flush away debris, maintaining clear drains.

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• Implement a Hair Removal Routine

Establish a routine for removing hair from your drains, such as using a drain snake or plumber's auger to manually remove any hair buildup that accumulates over time.

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• Professional Inspection

Schedule periodic inspections by a professional plumber to assess the condition of your drains and identify any potential issues before they escalate into major clogs or blockages.

By implementing these prevention methods, you can avoid the frustration of dealing with hair-clogged drains in your home. However, even with precautionary measures in place, hair clogs can still occur. If you find yourself facing a slow-moving drain due to a hair clog, there are steps you can take to safely remove it without resorting to harsh chemicals.

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Removing Hair Clogs from Your Drains

When prevention methods aren't enough, try these DIY removal tricks:

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Flush Your Drains

Similar to the prevention method, coordinate with your family to close all drains, fill each tub or sink with warm water, and simultaneously open the drains and flush the toilets to clear them all at once.

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Natural Remedies

Instead of harsh chemicals, consider using natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar to dissolve hair clogs. Follow these steps:

1. Measure one cup of baking soda and pour it down the drain.
2. Immediately pour one cup of vinegar down the drain.
3. Watch for fizzing in the drain and, after five minutes, flush the drain with two quarts of hot water.
4. Repeat the process until the clog clears.

For stubborn clogs, try pouring a mixture of baking soda, salt, and hot water down the drain and let it sit overnight before flushing with boiling water.

The environmentally friendly nature of these natural methods ensures they won't harm your pipes or the environment. In fact, using these methods regularly can serve as preventive maintenance for your drains.

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Conclusion:

If DIY methods fail to clear stubborn drain clogs, don't hesitate to reach out to Sewer Surgeon for professional assistance. Our skilled team is equipped with advanced drain removal techniques to provide you with effective solutions for your plumbing needs. Don't let a hair-clogged drain disrupt your daily routine. Contact us today to schedule drain clog removal and restore proper drainage in your home.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

How often should I clean my drains to prevent hair clogs?

Regular cleaning every 1-3 months is recommended to prevent hair buildup and ensure smooth drainage.

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Are there any hair-friendly drain cleaning products available?

Yes, enzyme-based drain cleaners are specifically formulated to break down organic matter like hair without damaging pipes.

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Can DIY methods like baking soda and vinegar harm my pipes?

No, when used correctly, baking soda and vinegar are safe for pipes and offer an eco-friendly alternative to chemical cleaners.

What should I do if my DIY methods fail to clear a stubborn clog?

If DIY methods are ineffective, contact a professional plumber who can use specialised tools to clear the clog efficiently.

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Are there any long-term solutions to prevent hair clogs in drains?

Yes, installing drain screens or filters can trap hair and prevent it from entering the drain, reducing clogs and the need for frequent cleaning.