Have you noticed that drain clogs tend to happen when you least expect it? While the best solution is to contact a professional plumber, sometimes it’s impossible. In this article, we’ll walk you through clearing up a sluggish drain quickly. We’ll explain how to identify clogs, remove them with basic materials, and keep them from returning. Read on to learn more.
The Clear Choice Plumbing & Heating: Your Plumbing Solution
The Clear Choice Plumbing & Heating is here to help with all your plumbing needs. If you’re not confident about clearing the drain on your own, please get in touch with our team of experienced technicians. We’ll have your drains running like new again in no time!
Use a Plunger
The first step to clearing a sluggish drain is using a plunger. A plunger should be your go-to tool for DIY fixes. It creates suction that can dislodge and push the clog through the system. A cup plunger is perfect for clearing sink drains.
Start by removing any excess water from the sink or tub. Then, take out the drain cover. Place the plunger cup over the drain and press down firmly to create a seal. Pump vigorously several times before lifting up quickly. Do this for about a minute. This should be enough to dislodge any clogs.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
If the plunger didn’t work, try a homemade solution of vinegar and baking soda. This is a safe, natural way to break up drain clogs. Start by pouring one-third to one cup of baking soda into the drain and letting it go as far down as possible. Then, pour in an equal amount of vinegar. The mixture will bubble and foam as it works to clear the clog.
Leave the solution for 10 to 15 minutes before running hot water (not necessarily boiling) into the drain. This should help clear out any remaining clogs and debris. If it doesn’t work the first time, repeat several times until all the particles are gone.
Pull Out the Hair
One of the most common causes of clogs is hair. To clear your drain, pull out any tangled clumps of hair. This can be done in several ways. The most popular option is to bend a wire coat hanger (or a similar gadget) into a hook. Insert the hook into the drain, carefully fishing out any built-up hair clumps.
Be careful while using a wire coat hanger, as it could scratch and damage the pipe. If you’re uncomfortable with this, try using a drain snake or plumber’s auger instead. These tools are designed explicitly for clearing clogs safely.
Clean the P-Trap
The P-trap is a curved section of pipe located just under the sink, where most clogs occur in bathroom and kitchen sinks. It connects the sink drain to the wall and holds water that prevents sewer gases from entering the house. Hair, dirt, jewelry, and grease can get stuck in the P-trap and cause clogs.
To clean it, wear gloves and start by removing the P-trap. Turn off the water to the affected sink and place a bucket beneath the area to catch any water or debris that may be released. Two slip nuts connect the trap to the wall and sink drain. Loosen these and carefully pull out the trap. Clean any debris or buildup, reassemble the pieces and turn the water supply back on.
Boiling Water
This is the easiest and most convenient way to clear a clogged drain. However, it doesn’t work for all types of clogs. Boiling water removes grease, soap residue, and food particles. To do this:
- Clear any excess water from the sink.
- Boil a large pot or kettle of water and pour it slowly into the drain.
- Let the hot water sit in the sink or tub for a few minutes before running any cold water through.
- Repeat this several times. The heat should be enough to dissolve any debris, grease, or soap scum causing the clog.
You can alternate between boiling water alone and boiling water mixed with one-third cup of dish detergent. The detergent helps break down grease, fat, and oil built up in the pipes. You may need to use this method several times, along with plunging, for very tough clogs before seeing results.
The Clear Choice Plumbing & Heating: Expert Plumbers to the Rescue
If you cannot clear up a sluggish drain yourself, it’s time to call in the professionals. The Clear Choice Plumbing & Heating is an experienced team of experts who can help identify and solve any clog or blockage issue. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure your plumbing system runs efficiently and effectively.
With these simple tips, you can clear up a sluggish drain fast and return to enjoying your personal spa in no time. Have fun!
