We recommend an enzyme-type drain cleaner, such as Roto-Rooter Pipe Shield®. The natural enzymes eat the grease and hair and keep the pipe from filling with sludge. Used as directed, these products turn the sludge into a liquid that will flow out of the pipes into the main sewer. Pipe Shield's exclusive formula uses natural bacteria to breakdown deposits, so it's safe for the environment. When used as directed each month, build-up can be prevented for up to 30 days. Pipe Shield® is available only from City Plumbing pro locations.

You pour a portion of the 34 ounces into each drain once a month. A little bit of Pipe Shield® goes a long way. Depending on how many drains you have in your home, the jug you have could last a year or more.

To prevent clogs in your drains, consider these tips: Be mindful of what goes down the drain, especially cooking grease, coffee grounds, hair, and soap scum. Use a drain strainer to catch hair and debris before it causes a blockage. Flush hot water down the drain regularly to help clear away buildup. Occasionally, pour baking soda followed by hot water down the drain to help break down residue. Try a vinegar and baking soda mixture to dissolve clogs naturally. Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners as they can damage pipes. Maintain sewer lines by having them snaked annually to remove tree roots and prevent backups. For septic tanks, pump every three to five years and use bacteria additives regularly to keep the system balanced.

When faced with persistent clogs, strange odors, or slow drainage, calling a professional plumber like those at City Plumbing pro is often the best solution. While some clogs may be cleared with DIY methods, attempting to do so incorrectly can cause damage to your pipes. Harsh chemical cleaners can also exacerbate the problem over time. A plumber can safely and effectively diagnose the issue, using tools like drain snakes or video camera line inspections to address the root cause of the clog. With their expertise, they can provide solutions and recommendations for maintaining your drains in the future.

Dealing with clogged drains can be a hassle, but there are several methods homeowners can try before calling a professional like Roto-Rooter for assistance. Manual efforts such as removing visible blockages or using a plunger can often resolve simple clogs. For more stubborn clogs deeper in the pipes, a safe chemical mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water can be effective, especially for bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers. However, it may be less effective for kitchen drains. If DIY methods fail to clear the clog, it's best to seek professional help to prevent further damage to your pipes.

When one fixture's drainage backs up into another, it means they're connected before the main drain. Blockages in the connecting line cause water to rise in a lower fixture. Sink lines gather lint, grease, and soap scum, narrowing the drain and slowing water flow. A hand snake can clear minor clogs, but not those under the floor. For those, call a plumber. After cleaning, use Roto-Rooter Pipe Shield® to prevent buildup and keep the line flowing.

Unused bathroom drains can emit unpleasant smells due to evaporated water in the plumbing trap (P-trap). These U-shaped dips in the pipe usually retain water to block sewer odors. With no water flow, the trap dries out, allowing odors to escape. Bathroom cleaners and liquid drainage products mask but don't prevent this issue. To fix it, run water in the drains weekly or monthly to refill the traps. If the smell persists, try a vinegar and baking soda solution followed by hot water to clean the drain, then add vegetable oil to slow evaporation.