Preventing and Clearing Pipe Clogs: Practical Tips from Plumps

Clogged pipes are one of the most common household problems, often causing both financial damage and inconvenience. Fortunately, most clogs can be successfully prevented, and smaller issues can often be resolved on your own. In this article, we share practical plumbing tips on how to keep your system running smoothly and when it’s time to call in professional help.

Clearing clogs – the best cure is prevention

Regular hot water maintenance

The simplest and most effective way to prevent clogs is by regularly using hot water. To do this, fill the sink with hot water 2–5 times and let it run through the pipes. This helps to:

Melt accumulated grease and soap residue
Flush away small particles of dirt
Keep pipes free from organic material

Proper use of drain cleaner

From the second time onward, you can also add a drain cleaner along with the hot water:

First let hot water run through – this is important, because if water doesn’t go down at all, the clog is already too severe
Then add the drain cleaner and let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour
Run water into the sink again

Regular monthly maintenance helps keep pipes clean and prevents bigger problems.

When to call Plumps to clear a clog

How to recognize a more serious clog?

If water doesn’t go down at all, it’s time to call for plumbing help. Trying to clear clogs with a plunger can sometimes damage pipes, and instead of solving the issue, your shower or kitchen sink may end up needing much bigger repairs. A professional ensures a safe and effective solution.

Leak problems and professional plumbing help

If leaks appear in your plumbing and you are not a specialist, you should always call professional plumbing help. DIY fixes may not bring lasting results, and the problem can reappear after a short time. In Tartu and Southern Estonia, many older houses still have outdated plumbing systems that often require specialized work.

What to avoid – dangerous mistakes

The danger of strong chemicals

Many retailers don’t mention this, but strong acidic drain cleaners sold in stores can be very dangerous:

They have a pungent smell and are harmful to health
They can corrode pipes instead of cleaning them
They can damage sinks permanently
Old cast iron pipes cannot withstand chemical cleaning methods

Golden rules of prevention

What NOT to put down the drain:

Food scraps and grease
Large amounts of hair
Solid objects
Strong chemicals without advice

What TO DO regularly:

Use sink strainers
Clean drains regularly
Use the right amount of drain cleaner
Check the condition of your plumbing

Conclusion

Preventing clogs is much easier and cheaper than dealing with them later. Regular maintenance with hot water and the right amount of drain cleaner will keep your pipes in good condition. But don’t forget – if the problem becomes serious or if leaks appear, it’s better to call professional help to avoid greater damage.

Remember: prevention is better than cure, and calling a plumber in time saves both money and nerves!

Call +372 518 1176 – the Plumps team is ready to help in Tartu and the surrounding area.