While there are plenty of plumbing issues requiring plumber services, it is possible to solve simple problems yourself. The right plumbing supplies streamline DIY fixes, allowing this household system to continue operating as normal. Here are the essential plumbing supplines needed to help your maintenance efforts. 

What Plumbing Supplies Should You Have in Your Home?

1. Drain Chemicals

Chemical drain cleaners break down small clogs in toilets and sinks via alkali or acidic ingredients. They should not be used for large blockages or those featuring standing water, as they have little to no effect. Drain chemicals that sit in your plumbing system can also contribute to corrosion and leaks. To use a chemical drain cleaner effectively on a slow drain, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually involves measuring the proper amount of cleaner, waiting about 30 minutes, and flushing the drain with hot water. 

It's important to wear goggles, gloves, and long sleeves to handle the product, so you don't injure the eyes and skin. If you use a powder drain cleaner, you might have to work with cold water instead of hot to activate the ingredients. 

2. Drain Auger 

Also referred to as a drain snake or plumbing auger, a drain auger features a crank handle, cable line, and hook to move further into a toilet drain for clog removal. Shutting off the water supply is recommended before using this plumbing tool to avoid backups. Once the water is off, gently insert the auger into the drain and crank the handle until the auger’s cable is completely fed. Then, crank the handle in the opposite direction to bring the cable and clog back up. Flush the toilet or rinse water down the drain to eliminate any remaining clogging agents. 

3. Plunger

Plungers for sinks and toilets dislodge mid-sized blockages. A toilet plunger features a flange, or a rubber ring that creates a seal in the toilet drain and subsequently a vacuum for removing the clog. A sink plunger is flange-free for plunging on flat sink surfaces and requires covering the drain entirely to eliminate the clog. Push the plumber’s handle up and down, whether removing a sink or toilet clog, for best results. If the drain remains clogged in light of continuing slow drain or standing water issues, other plumbing supplies like a drain auger are typically needed. 

Purchase quality drain chemicals, plungers, augers, and other plumbing supplies from A & R Home Center, the home improvement store serving Washington, IN, and the surrounding areas. Emergency services from certified HVAC specialists, plumbers, and electricians are also available. Call (812) 254-7018 today with questions about plumbing supplies.