Tips for unclogging drains C METRO SERVICES
logged drains can be a nuisance. And if left untreated, that minor nuisance can turn into an expensive repair. A number of different things can cause drains to clog. Food particles, hair, grease, soap residue, oil, and even a foreign object lodged in the drain can each cause a drain to clog. Before you have to call a plumber, there are steps to take that may get water flowing once more.
Bubbles Galore
Baking soda has many uses in the home. This versatile product can be used dislodge items in drains. It is better to try baking soda when clogs are minor and water drainage is sluggish rather than waiting for the clog to get so bad that water is impenetrable. When baking soda and common household vinegar are mixed together, they form a new chemical called carbonic acid. This acid immediately begins to degrade into carbon dioxide gas, which produces foam and bubbles in the process. This bubbling action can upset the source of a clog in a pipe and dislodge particles that may be causing the water backup. Keep your face away from the drain as the
smell of vinegar mixing with the baking soda may be unpleasant. Baking soda also can be mixed with salt and boiling water to break down grease that may be clogging drains. Repeatedly washing this mixture down drains can gently scour pipes and keep water moving steadily.
Plunge ahead If a clog is especially stubborn, you may need to use a plunger. A plunger works by forcing the energy you push on the plunger into the surrounding water, which then applies pressure against the clog. Repeatedly forcing water against a clog can move it along until it frees up the drain. Plunging can be messy, so wear old clothes when plunging. Make sure the head of the plunger is filled with water; otherwise, your work will be for naught. You may want to keep a separate plunger handy for sink work so you are not transferring bacteria and waste from a toilet plunger into the sink, especially in the kitchen.
Pop and fizz Colas are loaded with phosphoric acid, which is Please see UNCLOGGING DRAINS, Page 15
KITCHEN CABINETS Continued from Page 6
and chemically treated wood. Homeowners can choose among wood, veneer, metal, a n d eve n g l a s s d o o r s a s replacements in the kitchen. Coupling cabinet refacing with replacement of old appliances can completely transform the appearance of the kitchen in relatively little time. Many refacing projects go as follows. • Measurements are taken and technical drawings are made so that new cabinet materials can be manufacturered to the kitchen’s exact specifications. • Homeowners choose the type of finish they prefer for the new cabinetry. • Manufacturing takes place, and homeowners will
schedule a time when the work will commence. • Existing doors and drawer fronts will be removed and recycled or disposed of. • If cabinet frames and boxes need to be repaired in any way, some refacing companies will take care of this. • Cabinet boxes and frames are covered in a matching veneer or plastic laminate. • The new doors and drawer fronts are installed, as are new handles, pulls and moldings to complete the look. Many companies specialize in cabinet refacing. Homeowners should request estimates from potential candidates and review workmanship prior to hiring a particular company. Cabinet refacing is often a fast, relatively inexpensive renovation project. It can improve the appearance and functionality of a kitchen in a small amount of time, while also improving the value of a home.
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Sunday, September 29, 2013 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA
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