Tips To Manage A Blocked Drain
If you are a home owner you probably already know clogged drains are as common as ants at a picnic, and most times you can clear a clogged drain yourself without having to call in the professionals. This saves you time and money, although it is not recommended to do it yourself unless you know what you are doing and dealing with, however, with that being said if you have just a minor clog there are some helpful hints you can try to remove the clog before you have to call in the "big boys."
- A bent wire hanger or drain snake – while the bent wire hanger is handier and possibly cheaper the drain snake will provide a longer reach as well as the spiral tip that can be used to grab hold of any hair that might be causing the clog. After you have gone "fishing" in your drain and are satisfied with the debris you have removed, run somehow water to test the drain and also help clear it up.
- Baking Soda & Vinegar – another simple home remedy to try and you probably have all the materials at the house already. You will need 1/3 cup of baking soda and 1/3 cut of vinegar and a pot of boiling water. First, you want to dump the baking soda down the drain, then the vinegar this will cause a reaction and cause the baking soda to fizz. This fizz can sometimes help work a clog loose. Let this mixture sit for about 30-60 minutes, which is about perfect for the boiling water to get ready. Once 30 minutes have passed, pour the boiling water (Carefully!) slowly into the drain.
- There are many other "odd" remedies you might try, such as using plain yogurt (no fruit) pour about a cup full down the drain and let sit for a few hours. You might also try pouring a bottle of Nair (the hair remover in the pink bottle) down the drain and again let sit for about 30 minutes and this will help remove hair build up in the drain, after 30 minutes pour hot water down the drain to rinse. If that fails get your garden hose out, and push it into the drain pipe, turn on the water, this typically will push the clog out without the use of any chemicals or other products needed.
Remember clogs are common and most times are nothing major to handle and correct, but a few routine care techniques can help prevent clogs.
- Routinely clean the drains – remove the hair catch/net/etc and thoroughly clean the drain as far as you.
- Regular tub/sink cleaning – after each use of your sink or tub you should clean out the area from any food or hair or other debris that may have fallen during the use.
- Routinely do the baking soda/vinegar clean – this works great to unclog drains but it is also a great way to clean the drain on a monthly basis or more often if you choose.
For reliable Plumber in Brighton, Plumber in Burwood, and Plumber in Camberwell, look no further. Our experienced team is ready to handle all your plumbing needs efficiently and effectively. Trust us for all your plumbing emergencies and installations in these areas and also.
Read More : Inspecting Your Water Heater