A blocked drain can be a minor inconvenience or a major disruption, depending on its severity. However, not all blockages require an immediate call to the plumber. With the right approach and tools, you can effectively clear a blocked drain yourself. In this post, we outline several tried-and-tested methods to unblock your drain, ensuring the smooth flow of water.
4 Different Ways to Unblock a Drain
1. The Power of Boiling Water
Boiling water is an easy and straightforward solution for dislodging minor blockages, especially those due to grease or soap.
Instructions:
- Boil a pot of water.
- Pour it slowly down the blocked drain in two to three stages, allowing the hot water to work for several seconds between each pour.
2. The Dynamic Duo: Baking Soda and Vinegar
When facing a stubbornly blocked drain, the chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar can provide the necessary force to clear it.
Instructions:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by an equal amount of vinegar.
- Cover the drain to direct the force downwards.
- After waiting 15-20 minutes, rinse with hot water.
3. The Salt and Baking Soda Mix
A mixture of salt and baking soda can also produce a reaction strong enough to break up the obstruction in your drain.
Instructions:
- Combine half a cup of table salt with half a cup of baking soda.
- Pour the mixture into the blocked drain.
- Wait for about 20 minutes and then rinse with boiling water.
4. Twist and Turn: The Plumber’s Snake or Hand Auger
For more severe blockages, a hand auger, also known as a plumber’s snake, can be a lifesaver.
Instructions:
- Insert the flexible end of the auger into the drain.
- Rotate the handle to reach further into the drain and break up the blockage.
- Once you feel the blockage give way, withdraw the auger, which should bring some of the blockage material with it.
Tips for Keeping a Clear Drain
Keeping your drains clear and running smoothly is easier than you might think. With a little bit of regular maintenance and care, you can avoid severe blockages and the need for intensive cleaning methods. Here are 5 handy maintenance and cleaning tips:
- Dispose of Grease Properly: Never pour cooking oils or grease down your sink. When it cools, it solidifies and forms stubborn clogs. Instead, collect it in a container and dispose of it in the trash.
- Mind What You Flush: Be mindful of what goes down your toilet. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper. Items like sanitary products, wet wipes, and diapers should be disposed of in the trash.
- Install Strainers: Use sink and shower strainers to catch larger debris, like food particles or hair. These items are much easier to throw in the trash from a strainer than they are to extract from a blocked drain.
- Run Hot Water: After using your sink or shower, run hot water down the drain for a minute or two. This can help to clear away any residue that might otherwise stick to the sides of your pipes and cause a blockage over time.
- Regular Cleaning: Once a week, try a preventative regular cleaning method. This could be as simple as pouring boiling water down the drain, or using a mild homemade solution like baking soda and vinegar.
Conclusion
Tackling a blocked drain might require some perseverance, but with these methods, you can often clear the obstruction yourself. If the blockage persists, however, don’t hesitate to call a professional to avoid damaging your pipes.
In the meantime, remember that overall cleanliness contributes to a healthier home. That’s where SweepSouth comes in. As South Africa’s #1 home services platform, we provide top-tier professional home services tailored to your requirements. A sparkling home and a smoothly flowing drain contribute to a more comfortable and worry-free living environment. Schedule your SweepSouth cleaning service with a vetted SweepStar today, and let us handle the cleanliness of your home while you focus on other essential tasks.
