Clogged drains are an irritating issue that can quickly lead to disaster if left to their own devices. Whether it’s a complete block or your water just seems to be taking a little too long to drain, clogs should be addressed right away.
Thankfully, there are some remedies you can try at home. We have compiled a list of DIY tips for unclogging a drain. You will be able to find most of the tools and supplies you need in your kitchen or bathroom – meaning you don’t have to leave the house!
Try Hot Water
This is the easiest tip for taking care of a clog. Simpy run hot or boiling water down your drain for 5-10 minutes, making sure not to burn yourself. Many times the heat and pressure from the water is all it takes to dislodge a clog.
Make Your Own Homemade Liquid Drain Cleaner
If hot water isn’t enough to clear out the clogged drain, you can create your own liquid drain cleaner using equal parts vinegar and baking soda. This simple homemade cleaner can breakdown the buildup causing the clog, without the risk that comes with chemical cleaners.
Grab the Plunger
Plungers aren’t just for clogged toilets! You can use a plunger for a sink or bathtub drain just as efficiently. Make sure to have a small amount of water around the drain to get the proper amount of suction, then plunge in a fluid motion for a couple of minutes.
After a couple minutes of plunging, test the drain. If still clogged, you can try plunging again or move on to a different remedy.
Invest in a Snake
You can invest in a drain snake to take care of most clogs. Drain snakes work well to tackle clogs further down in the drain, using special hooks to catch the clog and dislodge it from the drain. If you do not feel comfortable attempting to clear the drain yourself, contact a licensed plumber.
There you have it, four tips for unclogging a drain you can do yourself! If your drain is still blocked after attempting all of these tricks, it may be time to call in a plumbing expert. Contact Hanna Plumbing and Heating for all your plumbing needs!