Blockages or clogged drains are a common problem in plumbing.
However, blocked drains can be a tricky problem that can suddenly present and, if not addressed promptly, can lead to a costly and destructive property-wide problem.
You will find six DIY methods to unclog a drain.
What Are Some Things That Can Cause a Clogged Drain?
There are many reasons why drains can become blocked, but here’s the main reason:
- Food
- Grease
- Soap scum
- Foreign objects
- Hair
- Tree roots, garden debris
How to Unclog a Drain
While clogged drains typically require professional help, you can also try these simple home remedies to get rid of them yourself. You may find the following methods helpful in clearing your drain.
1. Plunger
Fill the sink halfway, you will be using water pressure to clear the blockage. Place the plunger fully over the sink hole. Continue to press down, but not too hard. You will see water slowly draining. Once it drains rapidly, the blockage is cleared.
2. Coat Hanger
Bend one end of the wire coat hanger to make a small loop. You can remove any gunk or hair by working this down the drainpipe. After that, use hot water to make everything move again. This technique is most effective if the blockage occurs within the first 5cm-10cm of the drain.
3. Drain Snake
If the clog becomes too severe to remove with a coat hook, a plumbing snake is an option. A drain snake, a flexible coil made of wire, is used to dislodge, and locate the drain clog.
4. Hot Water
If grease has built up, hot water can be used to flush the drain. Water from the tap may not be hot enough, instead, boil some water in large pots or a kettle and then pour it down the drain slowly.
Do not use this method with PVC pipes, as boiling water could cause damage. To clear the blockage, you may need to pour hot water down your drain many times.
5. Coke/Pepsi
Pepsi and Coke are more beneficial for drains than the lining of your stomach because they have an acidic component. It can be used to remove clogs in some cases as well as commercial products. Pepsi or Coca Cola at room temperature can also be used to slowly pour down the drain. You can leave it there for up to an hour, then rinse with hot water.
6. Baking Soda & Vinegar
You can also sprinkle a few drops of baking soda in the drain. This will mix it up and make it float in the drain. You can leave it for up to a night and rinse with hot water in morning. This can help you to remove more solid, stubborn matter.
What to Do if You Can’t Unclog a Drain
If you are still having problems with your drains and you have done everything possible to remove them, it is time for professionals to help.