Guides4Homeowners Useful Information & Guides
Faced with a non-working drain and don’t have the time or patience to solve it yourself? Your next step should be to call a drain company near you and have it solved in a professional manner.
However, we’ve pulled together some DIY tips so take a look at our 5 proven ways to get your drain working again.
1. Using the Plunger
Your trusty plunger should be one of the first items you reach for whenever you encounter a blocked drain.
Operating the tool is pretty easy- just stick the round, rubbery end into the drain opening, push down until you feel the rubber bend, wait a few seconds then pull the plunger out. This creates a suction force that will hopefully dislodge the material stuck in the pipes.
You’ll know when it works if you see the water coming down. If this happens, congratulations! problem solved.
2. A Drain Rod
A drain rod is a special piece of equipment that’s made for clearing out drain blockages. It’s shaped like a fisherman’s hook and can fit into most drains and works by debris removal.
Place the rod hook-first into the mess, give it a nice twist and pull it back up. The hook will have taken the grime and stuck matter, thus restoring flow in the system.
3. Vinegar and Baking Soda
You may have heard that baking soda and vinegar has a lot of uses in the house, but did you know that it can unblock drains as well?
If you want to get your drain working in a hurry, try out this classic DIY method. Mix
equal parts vinegar and baking soda (a half cup or so, depending on the scale) on-site, then quickly flush it down as it’s fizzing.
The chemical reaction should clear out the things that are blocking your drain and restore its function. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes before using the drain again.
4. Hot Water
Sometimes it’s as simple as pouring in a kettle full of boiling water. It can soften up debris and make the baking soda and vinegar combination much more effective.
First, empty the drain or sink of liquids using a bucket or cup. Then, fill up a pan or a kettle with water and heat it up to a boil. Pour down boiling water into the drain and wait for it to reach the blockage. You’ll know if it works when the drain starts taking wastewater again.
Try using method #4 and 5 this way- pour in the baking soda and vinegar mixture then let it sit for 10 minutes. Bring a kettle of water to boil then quickly pour that in as well. In the end you should have a fully-functional drain.
5. Drain Cleaners
Last but not the least you have chemical drain cleaners that can usually be found in supermarkets. The instructions are simple- pour the solution and wait for the clog to disappear. Afterwards, pour in hot water and use the drain as you would.
Thankfully, these were some DIY methods on using everyday household ingredients and a bit of know-how. Keep in mind that these cleaners are corrosive, so make sure to wear gloves, goggles and protective clothing to avoid injury.
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