The Right Way to Tackle Clogs: How to Clear Your Drain Safely and Effectively
Your drains keep your entire plumbing system running smoothly, but even the most careful homeowner can experience a clog. It’s one of the most common plumbing problems we handle in Omaha homes.
Knowing how to clear your drain safely can make the difference between a quick fix and costly damage to your pipes and fixtures. Whether it’s grease buildup in the kitchen or hair in the shower, the key is using the right method to get things flowing again without harming your plumbing.
Keep reading for expert tips from Aksarben on the safest, most effective ways to clean your drains—and when it’s time to call in a professional.
Why It’s Important to Keep Your Drains Clean
Clean drains do more than keep water flowing—they help protect your plumbing system from long-term damage. Over time, grease, soap residue, and debris can accumulate in your pipes, leading to slow drainage, unpleasant odors, and even leaks.
Regular cleaning is one of the most effective drain maintenance tips you can follow to avoid major plumbing issues down the line.
Keeping your drains clean can help you:
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Prevent clogs and backups that lead to standing water or overflowing sinks.
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Reduce pipe stress by maintaining consistent water pressure and free-flowing water.
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Avoid costly repairs caused by corrosion or hidden leaks.
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Eliminate foul odors caused by trapped debris and bacteria.
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Extend your plumbing’s lifespan and improve overall system efficiency.
Even with routine care, buildup can still occur. That’s when knowing how to clean out your drain properly—or when to call Aksarben—can make all the difference.
How to Clear Your Drain Fast—DIY Solutions You Can Try
Knowing how to clear your drain safely and quickly can save you time, money, and frustration. Before calling a professional, try a few of these simple, effective methods that are gentle on your plumbing and easy to do at home.
1. Plungers and Drain Snakes
When buildup sits too long, it can completely block your drainpipe. A plunger or hand snake can often dislodge the clog before it gets that far. To use a plunger effectively, make sure the cup covers the drain fully and enough water surrounds the rim to form a tight seal. Push down and pull up several times, then lift to check if the water drains. For tougher clogs, a hand-operated snake can reach deeper and break up debris without harming your pipes.
2. Hot Water and Dish Soap
For grease-related clogs, boiling water mixed with a few drops of dish soap can work wonders. Pour it down the drain slowly, letting it break down the residue between pours. This method is ideal for kitchen sinks with light buildup and won’t damage your pipes.
3. Enzymatic Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners may seem convenient, but their harsh ingredients can corrode pipes and create safety hazards. Enzymatic cleaners are a safer, eco-friendly alternative. They use natural bacteria and enzymes to break down organic materials like grease, soap, and hair without damaging your plumbing.
These products work best for regular drain maintenance and light buildup, helping prevent slow drainage clogs from becoming serious. For major or recurring blockages, professional cleaning is the safest way to restore full flow.
4. Remove and Clean the Drain Stopper
Hair, soap scum, and residue often collect around or beneath the stopper, slowing drainage over time. Remove the stopper or strainer, clear away buildup, and rinse with hot water. A quick cleaning every few weeks helps prevent clogs and keeps your sink or tub draining smoothly—no special tools required.
Professional Drain Cleaning Methods
If home remedies don’t solve the problem, it’s time to call your local Omaha plumbing experts. Professional plumbers know how to clear your drain safely using advanced equipment and proven techniques.
At Aksarben, our team uses specialized drain cleaning methods that not only remove tough clogs but also help prevent new ones from forming. From precision drain opening to high-pressure jetting, we restore full water flow without damaging your pipes or fixtures.
1. Drain Augering and Hydro Jetting
One of the most common professional methods for clearing tough clogs is drain augering, also known as cabling or snaking. This process uses a flexible metal cable with a hooked or pointed tip to break apart or pull out debris deep inside your pipes.
For larger blockages or buildup along pipe walls, Aksarben may use hydro jetting, which blasts high-pressure water through the line to fully clear and clean it. Both techniques restore flow without damaging your plumbing.
2. Camera Inspections
When the cause of a clog isn’t clear, a camera inspection removes the guesswork. Aksarben’s plumbers use waterproof cameras to see inside your pipes and identify buildup, cracks, or root intrusion. This helps us choose the right drain cleaning methods and confirm your system is fully clear after service.
3. Drain Opening
When a blockage stops water from draining altogether, drain opening is often the quickest way to restore flow. This process uses specialized tools to clear the immediate obstruction, allowing your plumbing to function again right away. However, it doesn’t remove the buildup that can cause future clogs. For a more thorough solution, professional drain cleaning provides a deeper clean and longer-lasting results.
How to Prevent Clogs and Keep Drains Fresh
Once you know how to clean out your drain, a few ongoing habits can help you avoid future clogs and unpleasant odors. Routine drain maintenance is the best way to keep your plumbing running smoothly and extend its lifespan.
To keep drains flowing freely:
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Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food waste down sinks.
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Use strainers to catch hair and debris in bathrooms.
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Rinse drains with hot water once a week.
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Enroll in Aksarben’s Pro Service Plan for regular inspections and professional cleanings that catch buildup early.
DIY vs. Professional Drain Cleaning—Which Is Better?
Knowing how to clear your drain at home can help with minor clogs, but professional cleaning provides a deeper, longer-lasting solution. DIY fixes handle surface issues, while experts use specialized tools to remove buildup throughout your pipes. Professional service also prevents recurring blockages and hidden damage.
For lasting results—and peace of mind—Aksarben’s plumbers know exactly how to clean out your drain safely and efficiently, keeping your plumbing in top shape year-round.
Call Aksarben for Drain Cleaning and Plumbing in Omaha
Whether you need help at home, in your business, or on a new build, Aksarben’s team is here to keep your plumbing running smoothly. We handle drain cleaning and plumbing for residential, commercial properties, and new construction, using proven methods that deliver long-term results.
Ask about our current specials to make your service even more affordable. Call 402-509-4016 today to keep your drains clear and your plumbing in top condition.