4 Simple Ways to Unclog a Drain
A clogged drain is a very common plumbing problem, so it’s easy to think that everyone can handle it. Nevertheless, there are many individuals who find unclogging a drain a difficult task and don’t know what to do once they encounter it.
Fortunately, there are several solutions that can easily solve this issue. If you’re the type of person who panics at the sight of a clogged drain, there’s no need to worry. In this article, you’ll find four simple ways that can help you unclog a drain.
1. Boiling Water
Pouring boiling water down the drain is the simplest unclogging method you can apply to slightly clogged drains. The heat will dissolve organic matter and can remove residues that are stuck in the pipes.
However, you can’t use this if you have PVC pipes because the boiling water can loosen their joints. It’s also important to remember to pour the water directly down the drain, especially if you have a porcelain sink bowl. Forgetting to do so could cause the sink to crack. To make things easier, use a large kettle to direct the boiling water right into the drain.
2. Vinegar and Baking Soda
If boiling water doesn’t help, vinegar and baking soda is a great alternative. Just pour half a box of baking soda down the drain followed by half a cup of vinegar, then stop up the drain with a rag or metal stopper. This will cause the mixture to fizz up – a reaction that agitates the blockage. Leave the drain for 30 minutes and then pour boiling water to flush everything down.
3. Commercial Grade Drain Cleaners
There are times when home DIY solutions work but when they don’t, commercial chemical drain cleaners are always available. They can easily dissolve organic debris, but you also have to be careful when using them.
Drain cleaners are potent enough to melt metals and burn through your clothing. As such, you should read and follow their instructions to ensure that nothing goes wrong.
4. Cup Shape Plunger and Drain Snake
For those blockages that can’t get loose, the cup shape plunger and drain snake will shake them right out. These tools are easy to use and can be purchased in just about any hardware supply store. However, you can’t use both for every clogged drain.
The plunger works better for drains that are completely plugged or can’t flush down any water. To unclog it, the first thing you want to do is fill the sink halfway full with water. Then, place the plunger over the drain. Make sure that it’s firmly sealed to make the procedure more effective. You can begin by using sharp, fast plunges to remove the blockage. Stop and check regularly to see if it’s draining.
For other cases, you can use the drain snake. This long, spring steel wire can fit most drains. When it hits the obstruction, you can twist the snake to catch or remove debris.
If Nothing Works, All American Cleaning Is Ready to Help
Although these solutions do come in handy during small emergencies, you can’t use them for every scenario. There are clogged drains that can’t be easily fixed, so it’s a smart decision to call the pros in these types of cases.
If you think the clogged drain in your southeast Idaho property needs professional attention, then contact All American Cleaning. Our company has been in the restoration business for many years now and offers quality water damage restoration services in the community.
Our technicians are highly skilled and experienced in handling all kinds of plumbing issues, so unclogging your drain will be a breeze. Plus, we utilize professional grade equipment when carrying out any task to ensure that each job is completed with zero mistakes and delays.
Just give us a call at 208-203-1512 and our friendly staff will be right with you.
