Many homeowners regularly deal with the problem of blocked drains. Whenever food particles block the kitchen sink or hair and soap scum clog the bathroom drain, these problems can disrupt the daily schedule. Many individuals hire a plumber when their drains aren’t working right. However, most minor clogs in drains can be resolved with simple items found at home.
Read on to learn how to clear blocked drain yourself.
Method 1: Boiling Water
Simply pour boiling water down the drain if the water in the washbasin becomes clogged. This method is most useful for grease and soap that have become solid inside the pipes. Put a lot of water in a big pot and turn on the stove to bring it to a boil.
Lift the pot away from the stove and bring it to where the drain is blocked. First, pour some of the boiling water into the drain, let it work for a few seconds and then repeat these two or three times. Hot water melts the grease, soap scum and other organic items that could be clogging the drain.
If the water does not drain away fast enough, repeat the steps. This method is safe for most types of pipes but should be avoided with PVC pipes. If the blockage persists after several attempts, try the next method.
Method 2: Baking Soda And Vinegar
The fizzing process that occurs when vinegar and baking soda are combined aids in the removal of organic materials. The first step is to put half a cup of baking soda into the drain that is clogged. Next, fill the drain with half a cup of white vinegar.
Place a plug or a wet cloth over the drain opening to prevent the reaction from escaping outside the pipes. Carbon dioxide gas is created when vinegar and baking soda mix, helping in the removal of debris. Leave the combination at least 15 to 30 minutes to work.
Once the waiting period is over, use hot water to rinse any built-up material down the drain. Using this method does not harm the environment or any kind of pipe or drain lining. If the blockage is not clear, perform the process thrice to get the best results.
Method 3: Use A Plunger
Using a toilet plunger to clear obstructions from your shower or sink might be easy. Opt for a plunger with a flat bottom instead of a flanged one if you need to seal something flat. Remove any materials you can see blocking the drain opening.
Over the plunger cup, pour enough water from the sink or tub. Please make sure the drain is securely covered after covering it with the plunger in order to create a suction that can remove the obstruction. Downward pressure must be applied, and then a rapid draw-up must be performed.
Repeat the plunging motion vigorously for 15 to 20 strokes. Check to see if the water flows smoothly after removing the plunger. If the problem is not resolved, try this method along with boiling water for an even better outcome.
Most common drain blockages can be tackled using these methods without hiring a professional. It is possible to prevent major obstructions by doing routine pipe maintenance. If you consistently have blocked drains, it may be a sign that a professional plumber is needed. However, when it comes to household drain issues, these DIY ideas are both cost-effective and quick.