Are your drains slowing down or completely clogged? It can be a frustrating and unsanitary problem. However, with the right techniques and best practices, you can effectively unclog your drains and restore proper water flow.
* Plunger
* Drain snake
* Baking soda
* Vinegar
* Chemical drain cleaner (as a last resort)
Before unclogging a drain, it’s helpful to understand the common causes:
* Hair and soap scum
* Food debris
* Grease
* Mineral deposits
* Fill the sink or bathtub with several inches of water to create a seal.
* Place the plunger over the drain and plunge vigorously up and down.
* Repeat the process until the water drains freely.
* Insert the drain snake into the drain opening and push it down until it encounters resistance.
* Turn the snake clockwise to break up the clog.
* Remove the snake and check if the drain is clear.
* Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
* Add 1/2 cup of vinegar and let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
* Flush the drain with hot water to dissolve the clog.
* Follow the directions on the product label carefully.
* Pour the chemical drain cleaner down the drain and let it sit for the recommended time.
* Flush the drain with plenty of hot water.
Note:
* Use chemical drain cleaners only as a last resort, as they can be corrosive.
* Install drain screens to catch hair and debris.
* Clean your drains regularly with a drain cleaner solution.
* Avoid pouring grease or food particles down the drain.
* Treat mineral buildup with a commercial descaler.