Grease can be a persistent problem for drains, especially in kitchens where cooking oils and fats often find their way down the sink. When hot, grease flows easily; however, as it cools, it hardens and can create clogs within the plumbing. Left unchecked, grease buildup can block water flow and lead to unpleasant odors and even damage to pipes.
Here are some ways to help you get grease out of a drain. However, these DIY methods may not always provide a complete solution. For a thorough and reliable drain cleaning, we still recommend seeking professional assistance.
- Boil Water and Pour it Down the Drain
- Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
- Try Dish Soap and Hot Water
- Use a Plunger
- Pour Salt and Hot Water
- Use a Drain Snake
- Try a Commercial Drain Cleaner
1. Boil Water and Pour it Down the Drain
Boiling water is a quick and simple way to tackle minor grease clogs. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, then pour it directly into the drain. The high temperature will help loosen and dissolve small amounts of grease buildup. Follow up by running hot tap water down the drain for a few minutes to keep the pipes warm and continue flushing out any remaining residue.
2. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar create a fizzy reaction that can break down grease clogs. To use this method, pour about a half cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it sit and fizz for 10-15 minutes, allowing the reaction to dissolve the grease. Afterward, flush the drain with hot water to clear out the mixture and any loosened debris, leaving your pipes cleaner and fresher.
3. Try Dish Soap and Hot Water
Dish soap is specially formulated to cut through grease, making it an effective tool for clearing grease from drains. Squeeze a generous amount of dish soap into the drain, followed by a pot of hot water. The heat helps the soap dissolve the grease and carry it away from the pipes. This solution is particularly useful if you notice the drain slowing down but not yet completely blocked.
4. Use a Plunger
A plunger can help dislodge grease clogs, especially if the blockage is close to the drain opening. To use this technique, fill the sink partially with hot water, place the plunger over the drain, and press down firmly to create suction. Repeat with quick plunging motions to dislodge the clog. This method works best for clogs near the surface and may not be as effective if the clog is deeper within the pipe.
5. Pour Salt and Hot Water
Salt acts as a natural abrasive that can help break apart grease. Pour about a half cup of salt down the drain, then follow with boiling water. The salt scrubs the grease particles as it moves through the drain, and the hot water helps carry the loosened particles away. This method is helpful for minor clogs and can be used as a preventive measure for routine drain maintenance.
6. Use a Drain Snake
For stubborn or deeper clogs, a drain snake can reach farther down the pipe to break up and remove grease buildup. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate the handle to catch and pull out any trapped grease or other debris. This tool can reach areas that hot water or chemical reactions may not fully penetrate, making it ideal for more challenging clogs that DIY methods cannot resolve.
7. Try a Commercial Drain Cleaner
Commercial drain cleaners are specifically formulated to dissolve tough clogs, including grease. These products should be used sparingly because they can be corrosive and potentially damage pipes over time. If you choose to use a commercial cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely to prevent overuse or accidental damage to the plumbing system.
Are You Still Struggling With Drain Clogs? Call TX Hydrojet!
If these DIY methods don’t clear up your drain, consider professional help from TX Hydrojet. Our drain cleaning and hydro jetting services can effectively tackle even the toughest clogs without risking damage to your pipes. Hydrojetting uses high-pressure water to clean the interior of your pipes, removing not only grease but also any other debris that may be causing blockages. For reliable and long-lasting drain solutions, contact TX Hydrojet and enjoy a worry-free plumbing system.
