Get matched with top drain cleaners in Berne, NY

No, you should avoid using liquid drain cleaners. These chemicals, often packed with sulfuric or hydrochloric acid, can wreak havoc on your pipes, causing erosion and potential leaks. They’re also dangerous to your health. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, manual removal or a professional plumber is your best bet. Chemical drain cleaners can often make things worse, especially if the clog stays put and the chemicals linger in your pipes.

That pungent rotten egg smell coming from your drain is likely the buildup of biofilm—hair, skin, and soap scum that turns into a black sticky mess. In this case, pouring down near-boiling water, baking soda, and white vinegar will remove the smell. Keep in mind that a rotten egg smell is occasionally a sign of larger sewage line clogs and other related issues.

A saturated leach field can result from various underlying issues, so it's best to call a professional septic company to diagnose and treat the problem. Depending on the cause of the saturation, potential fixes include pumping out a full septic tank, adding more bacteria to the tank, or regrading the soil to fix low spots. It may also be necessary to reroute rainwater and runoff away from the leach field using gutters, downspouts, and extenders. Once the primary issue is resolved, planting specific types of vegetation over the area can help absorb excess water. In more severe cases, you might need to install a larger septic tank or replace the leach field entirely.

To unclog the drain pipe, remove the machine's drain hose from the pipe or sink drain, being careful to contain any water in it. Next, use a plunger for sink drains or a plumbing snake for a wall drain. Test the repair by pouring a small amount of water into the pipe before trying it with a laundry load.