5 Effective Ways to Unclog Blocked Drains
Dealing with Blocked Drains
Dealing with the signs of a blocked drain from sinks and a blocked shower drain is one of those household annoyances that can disrupt your daily routine and frustrate you. The inconvenience of slow-draining sinks or pooling water can quickly escalate if addressed.
More than just an inconvenience clogged drains also can lead to more severe issues, including water damage, pipe corrosion, and even sewage backups.
This guide explores five effective methods to unclog and clear blocked drains or prevent blocked drains from sinks and drains, ranging from simple DIY solutions to more specialized approaches. By taking action promptly, you can avoid further damage and restore the smooth water flow in your home.
Common Causes for Blocked Drains
Blocked drains can occur for various reasons. Here are some common causes of blocked drains:
Foreign Objects:
Items like hair, soap scum, food particles, grease, and small objects can accumulate in drains, leading to significant drain blockages and clear minor blockages over time.
Tree Roots:
Tree roots can infiltrate and grow into pipes and outdoor drains, causing them or outdoor drains to become blocked or damaged by tree roots.
Grease and Fat Buildup:
Pouring grease and fat down the drain can solidify and accumulate, creating a sticky blockage in cold water that traps food scraps other than food scraps and debris.
Mineral Deposits:
Hard water can cause minerals to build inside pipes, reducing water pressure and flow and eventually leading to a blockage or broken line.
Toilet Paper and Hygiene Products:
Flushing excessive toilet paper, wet wipes, or feminine hygiene sanitary products down the toilet can cause clogs in the sewer line.
Collapsed or Damaged Pipes:
Pipes can collapse or become damaged due to ground shifting, corrosion, or extreme weather conditions.
Improper Installation:
Poor plumbing installation can lead to misaligned pipes or inadequate slope, which can cause water and debris from broken pipes to accumulate and create major blockages within.
Excessive Toilet Paper:
Using too much toilet paper in a single flush can overwhelm the pipes and lead to blockages.
Small Objects:
Children’s toys, jewelry, and other small objects accidentally dropped into sinks or toilets can cause blockages.
Flushed Non-Flushable Items:
Items such as wet wipes such as diapers, cotton swabs, dental floss, and paper towels should not be flushed down the toilet, as they do not break down easily and can cause clogs.
Collapsed Sewer Lines:
In the case of older or deteriorated sewer lines, collapse or damage can occur, leading to blockages.
Ways to Clearing Blocked Drains
Here’s a list of various ways to unclog blocked drains:
1. Boiling Water
A quick and common solution to alleviate minor drain blockages involves the use of boiling water. This method aids in dissolving accumulations of grease, soap remnants, and additional obstructions that contribute to blockages. However, caution is advised for those with PVC pipes, as the intense heat from boiling water possesses the potential to inflict damage.
2. Plunger
A plunger is an essential tool, effectively unclogging sinks and toilets alike. When dealing with sinks, first, ensure that there is sufficient water to cover both the drain hole and the cup of the plunger to establish a secure seal. Then, employ a vigorous plunging action for approximately one to two minutes to effectively dislodge the obstruction.
For toilets, it is advisable to utilize a flange plunger, a design tailored specifically for this purpose. Apply a similar technique as you would for sinks to efficiently address clogs.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Mixing baking soda with vinegar and hot water can effectively clear minor clogs and organic build-up in double sinks. This natural, foaming reaction is a simple and eco-friendly cleaning solution. First, pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain. Follow this with a cup of hot water and an equal amount of vinegar. Allow the combination to sit and work its magic before flushing it through with additional hot water.
4. Plumbing Snake or Auger
A plumbing snake, also known as a drain auger, is a tool engineered to disintegrate and dislodge blockages within drain pipes. It is particularly effective for deep-seated clogs that are not easily reachable. To use it, insert the snake at the base of the drain and turn the handle. This action navigates the auger through the pipe, cutting through grease buildup and dislodging the obstructive materials causing the blockage. Gently retract the snake, and it will bring up loosened materials, effectively clearing the clogged drain and restoring optimal water flow.
5. Chemical Drain Cleaners (Caution)
Chemical drain cleaners can be effective for clearing clogs, but they require careful handling. These cleaners contain potent chemicals that, if not used properly, can harm pipes, human health, and the environment. Always follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer and consider using protective gear to ensure safety.
6. Wet/Dry Vacuum
For stubborn clogs in sinks, including kitchen drains, a wet/dry vacuum can be effective. This tool can create powerful suction to dislodge blockages. To use, place the vacuum nozzle over the drain opening and switch the setting to vacuum liquids. It’s essential to check the user manual beforehand, as not every vacuum model is suited for this task.
7. Disassemble and Clean P-Trap
Underneath sinks, there’s a curved pipe called the P-trap that often traps debris, causing blockages to prevent blocked sinks and drains. Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch water, then carefully use the drain hole to remove waste from the trap. Clean out any debris and rinse the web before reassembling it.
8. Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaners
Enzyme-based drain cleaners use natural enzymes to break down organic matter, helping to clear minor clogs and prevent future buildup. These cleaners are generally safer for pipes and the environment than chemical alternatives.
9. Call a Professional Plumber
If DIY methods prove ineffective or you’re dealing with a severe or persistent drain blockage yourself, it’s advisable to call a professional plumber. Plumbers have the expertise and tools to diagnose and resolve complex drainage issues safely and effectively.
10. Preventive Measures
To prevent clogs in the future, think about using drain covers. These covers help the overflow drain trap hair and debris. Avoid pouring grease down the drains. It’s also essential to inform everyone in the household about the dos and don’ts of what goes down the drains.
It’s important to note that the success of these preventive measures can depend on the type and seriousness of the blockage. If a persistent clog or severe blockage occurs, or if you are uncertain about these preventive steps, seeking advice from a professional plumber is highly recommended.
Assistance from Professional Plumber
In the battle against a blocked pipe or clogged drains, you have a variety of effective weapons in your arsenal. Whether it’s a simple baking soda and boiling water remedy or the mechanical prowess of a plumbing plumber’s drain cleaner, drain snake, or well, each method to clear a blocked drain pipe or clogged drain has its strengths. However, the critical takeaway is promptly addressing clogs to prevent more severe issues.
Regular maintenance, proper waste disposal, and good drain care habits can go a long way in avoiding frequent clogs and loosening blockages. Remember to assess the severity of the clog and choose the method that suits your situation best. If you find yourself facing a particularly stubborn or recurring drain blockage, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of a professional plumber to ensure your drains flow freely and smoothly once again.
