A clogged drain can be an inconvenience in any home. Delaying fixing the issue can cause water damage, mold growth, and an unpleasant odor. Instead of hiring an expensive plumbing service to unclog your drain, you can do it yourself with a little know-how. This article offers a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to unclog drains.
Step 1: Survey the Drain
The first step is to survey the drain to establish what’s causing the clog. The key question is whether the clog is a localized or a systemic issue. A systemic issue occurs when multiple drains in the home are clogged. It may be a sign of sewer line blockage, and it’s advisable to call a professional to address the issue.
If it’s a localized problem, the clog may be closer to the fixture. In this case, you may use the following DIY methods to unclog the drain:
Step 2: Boiling Water
Boiling water is the simplest way of unclogging your drain. It is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and doesn’t require harsh chemicals. You may start by boiling a kettle of water and then pouring it down the drain. Boiling water can dissolve grease and soap, and if the clog is due to these, it may slow drain water.
But if the water doesn’t go down immediately, start with step three.
Step 3: Plunger
A plunger is effective in clearing clogs in drains that don’t have standing water. Before using a plunger, a plumber should remove the drain stopper. After filling the sink or bathtub with water, place the plunger over the drain and press it up and down rapidly for about 15 times. The action creates pressure that can dislodge the blockage. Then turn on the water to check if it goes down the drain.
If step three doesn’t work, try step four.
Step 4: Baking Soda and Vinegar Combo
Baking soda and vinegar combo offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution to unclog your drain. The two ingredients mixed together create a chemical reaction that causes water to bubble and foam. This action can loosen the buildup that’s causing the clog, and clearing it can become easy. Follow these steps:
– Add a pot of boiling water to the sink
– Pour one-third cup of baking soda into the drain
– Pour one-third cup of white vinegar down the drain
– Cover the drain for 5-10 minutes to allow the mixture to work
– Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to flush out the residue if the water is still not going down.
Step 5: Snake
Suppose the drain has standing water and DIY methods haven’t worked. In that case, a snake may be necessary. A snake is a long, flexible coil that can reach deep into the drain to remove clogs. Be sure to purchase a snake with a length appropriate for the size of the pipe.
To use it, remove the drain stopper and slowly feed the snake down the drain. Twist and turn the snake as you go to clear the blockage. Remove the snake slowly and almost always the clog will come with it. When you’re finished, run the hot water to wash away remains of the clog.
Step 6: Call a Professional Plumber
If DIY doesn’t work, or you do it wrongly, it may cause harm. If you’re unsure of what to do or don’t feel confident attempting to unclog your drains, call a professional plumber.
Prevention
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to clogged drains. To prevent clogs from happening, follow these plumbing tips:
– Use drain stoppers to prevent hair, soap, and other debris from going down the drain
– Don’t pour grease, oil, and other food remains down the drain
– Regularly flush drains with boiling water.
Conclusion
Clogged drains are a common problem in homes. Using this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you can unclog your drain fast and efficiently. If you attempt to unclog your drain yourself and it isn’t possible, call a plumbing expert. Remember to keep your drains clean by preventing build-up with drain stoppers, flushing your drains with boiling water regularly, and being mindful of what goes down your drain. By following these tips, you’ll save yourself time, money, and avoid headaches in the future. Contact Ace Plumbing today for your plumbing needs: “aceplumbingrepair.com” or call them at this phone number “(844) 711-1590“.
Call Now