How to clear a blocked drain
The "dreaded blocked drain" No problem.
Dealing with a blocked drain can be a frustrating experience, but fear not! With the right tools and techniques, you can often clear the blockage yourself, saving you time and money. You don't need to be a plumber to know when a drain is blocked, the most obvious sign is the water is not emptying out of your shower, bath, or sink. This will indicate that something is blocking the pipe and needs to be cleared sooner than later. At first glance it may seem like a challenging job to tackle but believe it or not, clearing a blocked drain can often be achieved with a few simple steps, allowing you to restore proper water flow in your household. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively tackle the most common blockages. Remember to exercise caution, use the appropriate tools, and, when necessary, seek professional help to ensure the job is done safely and efficiently. Generally, what you need to unblock a drain can be found in your home.
You will need:
Fortunately, you may only need to purchase a few items if necessary, as the others are readily found in most households.
- Rubber gloves
- Bucket or large container
- Plunger
- Drain snake (auger)
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Hot water
- Pipe wrench (if necessary)
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of clearing a blocked drain, ensuring smooth and efficient water flow once again. But bear in mind if these steps fail to clear the drain, it may be time to seek professional assistance, as they have specialised tools and knowledge to handle more complex blockages.
Step 1:
Safety First Before you start, put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from any potentially harmful substances or bacteria that may be present in the drain.
Step 2:
Remove Visible Blockages Check the drain opening for any visible debris, such as hair, food particles, or other objects. Using your gloves or a pair of tweezers, carefully remove any visible blockages. Dispose of the debris in a suitable manner.
Step 3:
Plunge the Drain For minor blockages, a plunger can often do the trick. Fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the rubber part of the plunger. Place the plunger over the drain and vigorously plunge up and down for about 20-30 seconds. This action helps dislodge the blockage by creating pressure and suction.
Step 4:
Use a Drain Snake (Auger) If plunging doesn't work or for more stubborn blockages, a drain snake, also known as an auger, is a useful tool. Insert the snake into the drain, rotating the handle clockwise as you push it down. Keep feeding the snake until you feel resistance, which indicates contact with the clog. Rotate the snake and pull it back to remove the blockage.
Step 5:
Try a Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution A natural and chemical-free method involves using baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to help loosen any debris. Next, pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Cover the drain and let the mixture fizz and work for about 30 minutes. Finally, flush the drain with hot water to clear away the dissolved blockage.
Step 6:
Check and Clean the P-Trap If the blockage persists, it may be located in the P-trap— a U-shaped pipe beneath the sink or tub. Place a bucket or large container underneath the P-trap to catch any water. Use a pipe wrench to loosen and remove the nuts on each end of the trap. Carefully clean the trap of any debris, then reassemble the trap and tighten the nuts.
If you find that carrying out the above steps has not cleared your blocked drain, seek help from a licenced plumber. They have the tools and hands-on experience to quickly diagnose and unclog even the most stubborn blockages and have your plumbing system back on track in no time at all.
Should you require assistance with a stubborn blocked drain contact Leak Free Plumbing Solutions on 0422 392 447 and speak to one of our technicians today.