Plumbing in the Home/Drain Clogged

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Question
In my attempt to unclogged the bathroom sink, I used Drano. After using drano, the water drained completely and lasted for two days. After two days, I noticed that water was backing up in the sink. Why is this happening?

Answer
Hi Mary,
Drain cleaning products are pretty harsh.  The chemicals are very aggressive and can damage the piping system and even create enough heat to melt plastic drain pipes under the wrong conditions.

The main problem is that in order to work, they need to stay in the area of the clog and work on the hair that is blocking the line. As soon as it works its way through enough to drain a little, the chemicals just drain away and are no longer where the problem is. It is only a partial, temporary solution I don't recommend them.

The only proper way to clean a drain line is mechanically with a power snake. The clog in the bathroom is likely hair.
Good Luck,
Dana

Plumbing in the Home

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Dana Bostick

Expertise

Pretty much any residential plumbing questions. For "item specific" details such as a specific model of fixture, I will need to research and there may not be any useful information available. Note: I live and work in Southern California. We do not, as a rule, use hot water or steam heating systems, oil fired boilers or private water wells so my knowledge in those areas is pretty limited. There are others here on AllExerts that can probably answer those questions better.

Experience

Retired Licensed General Contractor with Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical sub-licenses. Active Certified InterNachi Home Inspector and Infrared Thermographer

Organizations
InterNachi

Publications
SearchWarp, Article Alley, www.DIYHomeInspection.blogspot.com, ActiveRain.com "Rain Maker",

Education/Credentials
30 years in the trades, Licensed General Contractor, Certified Infrared Thermographer

Awards and Honors
InterNachi Certified Property Inspector, Listed FHA Fee Inspector, HUD Mobile Home Inspector

Past/Present Clients
Home buyers, sellers and owners, Investors, Commercial roofing companies (infrared roof scans for moisture intrusion)

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