Helpful Tips to Unclogging Drains
mikal jason
We all know clogged drains can be frustrating, and they’re a common problem. But the good news is that there are some simple, effective ways to unclog a drain.
These tips are all easy to try, and they use items you likely have in your house right now. Whether you have a pipe snake, a wire hanger or some chemical cleaners, these tips should help you unclog your drain and get it working properly again.
Sometimes doing everything right will still not fix the problem, so a lot of the do it yourself projects and repairs need to be done carefully. Things like rice or thick substances will require professional tools and equipment to repair a clogged drain.
Boil Water
Boiling water is a helpful method for clearing out many drain clogs. It helps break down grease and soap buildup that could be holding your clog in place.
But don’t use too much boiling water, especially if your pipes are made of PVC. The heat from the water can soften the plastic pipes and cause them to break or crack.
This isn’t safe for your plumbing system and can make the drain more difficult to unclog in the future. If you do decide to try this, be sure to boil only a few gallons of water at a time.
Then, pour it down the drain in two to three stages. You may need to do this several times to get the clog completely out of your drain.
Baking Soda & Salt
A combination of baking soda and salt can be effective in a number of household chores, including unclogging drains. When combined, they can help break up clogs in pipes by creating a chemical reaction that loosens the material inside the clog.
Vinegar can also be used in this process but only if your pipes are suitable for boiling water. If your pipes are not, it is better to skip this method and instead use a solution of hot tap water and dish soap to dislodge clogs.
Another option is to combine a solution of vinegar with lemon juice. This works well in clearing clogs that are difficult to remove with boiling water alone. The acid in the vinegar can help dissolve the material inside a clog. However, it is important to note that this solution can cause stains and damage the surface of your sink.
Wire Hanger
A wire hanger is a simple DIY drain unclogging tool that can help dislodge clogs. Simply straighten one end of a hanger and create a hook no more than a half-inch wide, and push it into the drain to dislodge any hair or debris that could be causing your shower drain to clog.
Aside from being an easy way to unclog a drain, this method is inexpensive and does not require any chemicals or other tools that could damage your pipes. However, if this does not work, you may need to call a plumber from Melbourne to remove the clog.
A plumber’s auger is another effective way to unclog a drain, but it isn’t practical for most home owners and can be more difficult to use on pipes. It can also be very
dangerous, so if you’re not comfortable using it, contact a plumbing professional to assist with the job.
Chemical Cleaners
Clogged drains can be a big hassle, and they often lead to costly plumbing repairs. That’s why many homeowners turn to chemical cleaners when they encounter a clog.
These products work by breaking up the clog with a chemical reaction and dissolving it. They’re pretty effective at getting rid of clogs caused by hair, food or grease.
But they can also damage your pipes and your health. Their chemicals release heat that can soften PVC pipes and corrode older piping.
They also produce harsh fumes that can be harmful to your skin and eyes if they splash up on you. In addition, they aren’t good for septic tanks because they kill the bacteria that helps break up waste.