How to Unblock a Drain – 4 Easy Ways

Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing problems that frustrate many homeowners. This is because they often happen, and the process of unblocking them is sometimes messy and involving.

However, if you encounter any issues, you can solve it yourself or don’t hesitate to give a local blocked drain plumber a call.

Option 1 – Using Baking Soda and Vinegar

There are high chances that you have baking soda and vinegar at home. A combination of these two ingredients causes a chemical reaction that can help remove blockages. Considering that this is a safer, cheaper, environmentally-friendly way of unblocking drains, many people will find it very convenient.

How do you use the two to unblock your drains?

• Make sure the drainpipes are dry. Pour 1 cup baking soda down the drain. You can use a funnel to make this easier for you.
• Then add two cups of boiling water and allow it to sit for a few minutes.
• After that, add one more cup of baking soda and one cup of white vinegar down the drain
• Cover the opening with a plug so that the foam does not come out into your sink
• Wait for the gurgling noises to cease before pouring more boiling water down the drain.

If this option doesn’t work, try option two.

Option 2 – Use a Plunger

Most homes have a plunger stored somewhere for purposes of unblocking sinks. If you don’t have one, head to your nearest hardware store and buy it.

How do you use a plunger to unclog a blocked drain?

• Apply Vaseline on the edges of the plunger for a better seal
• Place the plunger over the drain opening and ensure it covers the entire opening
• Force the plunger down several times for 5-10 minutes
• Run some water through to see if the drain is unblocked
• If not, repeat the plunging again

If this doesn’t work, try option 3

Option 3 – Using a Wire Clothing Hanger

Using a bent wire clothing hanger is one of the most popular ways of unblocking drains.

• Just straighten the hanger and bend a small hook on one end of the wire. Make sure the bend can fit the plughole
• Push the wire down the pipe until you feel the blocked area
• Gently twist the wire on the blockage and pull up the trapped elements as much as you can. Make sure not to push the block further down
• Once you feel you have pulled as much block element as you can, run hot water through the pipes to clear the remaining clog

If this fails to work, try option 4

Option 4 – Use Vacuum Cleaner

If all the above options fail to work, it is time to use a more aggressive option. Using a dry vacuum cleaner can help unclog a blocked drain.

• Make sure to cover up the drain to prevent messes
• Place the vacuum on the opening of the sink to suck out liquid
• Seal the area around the drain where the vacuum is placed to make it firmer
• Use the highest setting on your vacuum to pull out the clogged ‘nasties’ from your drain

If all the above methods do not work, you need to call any local plumbers in your area. All plumbers have efficient tools as well as experience to unclog drains. Most of the times blocked drains issues gets solved at home by DIY, but if the problem persists then calling local plumber is the best option to go for.

Article written by – Plumbers Romford