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Drain Cleaning Myths: What Works and What Doesn’t

If you’ve ever dealt with a clogged drain, you’ve probably heard a lot of DIY advice about how to fix it. But not all drain cleaning tips are created equal. Some can do more harm than good, so before you reach for a so-called “best drain cleaner” or try a home remedy, let’s debunk some common drain cleaning myths and explore what actually works.

Myth #1: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are an Easy Fix

Many people assume that chemical drain cleaners are the easiest solution for a clogged drain. While they may offer a quick fix, they can also damage your pipes over time. These harsh chemicals corrode plumbing, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Plus, they’re harmful to the environment! So instead of using store-bought drain cleaners, opt for safer methods like a drain snake or hydro jetting from a professional.

Myth #2: Hot Water and Dish Soap Can Unclog Anything

Hot water and dish soap can help break down grease in kitchen drains, but they won’t be effective for more serious blockages, like hair, soap scum, or tree roots in your sewer line. If you have a persistent clog, it’s best to call a professional drain cleaning service near you.

Myth #3: DIY Drain Snakes Are Just as Good as Professional Tools

Hardware store drain snakes can help with minor clogs, but they don’t always reach deep blockages. Professional plumbers use high-powered tools like hydro jetting equipment to clear pipes safely and thoroughly. If your drains clog frequently, professional drain cleaning is the best long-term solution.

Myth #4: Baking Soda and Vinegar Can Clear Any Clog

This popular home remedy may help with small buildups, but it’s not a miracle cure. When baking soda and vinegar mix, they create a fizzing reaction, but they lack the strength to remove solid obstructions. For tough clogs, professional drain cleaning near you is the most effective solution.

What Actually Works?

To prevent and clear clogged drains safely, consider these methods:

  • Regular Maintenance: Preventative drain cleaning services help avoid major blockages.
  • Drain Strainers: These catch debris before it enters your pipes.
  • Hydro Jetting: A powerful, professional service that removes stubborn clogs and buildup.

Professional Drain Cleaning: Simply search for “drain cleaning near me” to find an experienced plumber, ensuring your pipes stay clear and damage-free.

Let FloHawks Help

Avoiding DIY mistakes and chemical drain cleaners will help protect your plumbing system in the long run. If you’re dealing with a stubborn drain clog or want to schedule routine maintenance in the Great South Sound region, trust the professionals at FloHawks. Our expert team uses advanced techniques to provide thorough drain cleaning services that protect your plumbing and restore optimal flow. Whether it’s a minor clog or a major drain issue, FloHawks offers reliable solutions to keep your drains in top shape! Talk to the Hawk!

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Isaiah Taylor

Service Advisor

Tacoma native Isaiah Taylor has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor, he focuses on building strong relationships with customers and making sure they feel confident in the solutions being provided.

Isaiah believes the company’s culture sets FloHawks apart. He appreciates working alongside people who genuinely care about customers and take pride in doing the job right.

At 26, Isaiah is focused on building his career and continuing to grow in the industry. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him in the gym lifting weights and staying active.

Kevin Elbert

Service Advisor

Born in Olympia and now living in Lacey, Kevin Elbert has spent 11 years serving customers with FloHawks. As a Service Advisor, he is focused on helping homeowners and businesses find solutions when plumbing or septic issues arise.

Kevin’s favorite part of the job is working with customers who need help and finding a path forward that solves the problem. He values being part of a team that takes pride in delivering dependable service when it matters most.

In his free time, Kevin enjoys staying active outdoors. Hiking, camping, fishing, photography, soccer, and travel are some of his favorite ways to spend time when he’s not at work. At home, he stays busy with his four teenagers.

Stephen Redford

Service Advisor

Stephen Redford was born in Tacoma and now lives in Gig Harbor. With 14 years at FloHawks, he’s built a reputation as both a trusted Service Advisor and a key contributor to the company’s growth and outreach.

Stephen plays a role in business development, trade shows, and marketing while also supporting service operations across multiple areas. He appreciates FloHawks’ unique culture and commitment to customer service, believing the team consistently goes above and beyond what most companies offer.

Outside of work, Stephen enjoys walking, playing golf, and riding motorcycles. He’s married to his wife, Lori, and is the proud father of three children.

Janie “J” Kirkland

Service Advisor Assistant

Janie “J” Kirkland was born in Miami, Florida, and now calls Roy, Washington, home. Despite being newer to FloHawks, joining the team mid-2025, she has already become a valued member of the Service Advisor support team.

J enjoys the strong sense of teamwork at FloHawks and the relationships she has built with the people she works alongside each day. That collaborative spirit helps the team deliver the dependable service customers count on.

Outside the office, J loves spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, as well as making memories with her family. She’s the proud mother of two sons and a grandmother to four grandchildren.

Carl Evanson

Service Advisor

A Puyallup native who now lives in Spanaway, Carl Evanson has been helping customers at FloHawks for more than 13 years. As a Service Advisor, he brings deep experience and a practical approach to solving plumbing and septic challenges.

Carl takes pride in helping customers find real solutions to their problems. At FloHawks, the philosophy is simple: if water runs through it, the team can handle it, and Carl has spent more than a decade proving that to customers across the region.

When he’s not working, Carl enjoys camping and spending time with his growing family, which includes two grown sons and seven grandchildren.

Luke Schneider

Service Advisor Assistant

Originally from the Midwest and now living in the Puyallup area, Luke Schneider has spent the past three years supporting the FloHawks service team as a Service Advisor Assistant. His role focuses on logistics and administrative coordination, making sure the details are handled so the team can deliver excellent service in the field.

Luke especially enjoys the moment when everything comes together to solve a customer’s problem. Helping turn a complicated situation into a clear plan and a successful outcome is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

When he’s not working, Luke loves hosting and entertaining with his wife. Much of their free time is spent with family, often gathered around the table for board games and good conversation.

Crystal Lyons

Service Advisor Assistant

Born and raised in Tacoma and now living in Puyallup, Crystal Lyons has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor Assistant, she helps keep operations running smoothly while making sure customers feel supported every step of the way.

Crystal’s favorite part of the job is simple: helping people. Whether she’s assisting the service team behind the scenes or making sure customers get the answers they need, she takes pride in being part of a company that puts people first.

Outside of work, Crystal enjoys camping and spending time with her family. She’s married, and the proud mom of one daughter, and she also helps care for her niece, keeping family at the center of everything she does.