Have A Clogged Drain? A Few Simple Tricks To Get Things Flowing Again

Clogged drains are a fact of life. Whether you have a toilet that keeps overflowing or a kitchen sink that won't drain, knowing a few tips to get the water flowing again will save a lot of frustration. The important thing is to use these tips as soon as you notice a problem. Once the clog has a chance to grow and become truly lodged in the drain, you will need to call in plumbing professionals.

Hot Water

Quite a few clogs are caused by a buildup of some type of greasy matter that sticks to the walls of the pipes and captures small bits of debris. This happens in sinks, tubs and toilets. When you notice water not draining as quickly as normal, pour a few gallons of hot water into the drain. This is a good trick for a clogged toilet. As soon as you realize it is going to overflow, lift off the tank top and close the flapper to keep more water from getting into the bowl. Using the wastebasket, get hot water from the tub and pour it into the toilet.

Dish Detergent

If you have a slowly draining sink, a simple way to get rid of a greasy clog is with dish detergent. Wait until the water has drained and pour in ¼ cup of dish detergent. Do not do this on the side that has a garbage disposal underneath the drain as it will not get to any clog past the disposal unit. If you have a long-handled bottle brush, you can help the process by swirling it into the pipe to coat the sides. Wait about 15 minutes and then flush the drain with hot water.

Shampoo

Like dish detergent, shampoo can be used to break up a greasy clog. This can be used in the sink, toilet or bathtub. Take the grate off of the tub drain and try to get out any hair that you can easily reach, then use the shampoo.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

The combination of baking soda and vinegar can be used to break up all types of clogs. Pour a cup of baking soda into the drain and then a cup of white vinegar. Watch as the bubbles come out of the pipe. When it stops, flush the drain with hot water.

If you practice these tips regularly, before the drains start to slow down, you should never have to worry about simple clogs. If the clog is deep in the pipes, or caused by tree roots or a crushed pipe, you need to call in the plumbers, such as AA Johnny's Sewer & Drain Cleaning Ltd, to get the situation fixed.