I’m sure you, at some point, have experienced clog drain lines. There is no way to avoid this kind of problem in any household. Thus, knowledge is needed to figure out how to unclog pipes in your homes. No one would want to experience this problem over and over again continuously. Just any plumbing fixture in your home can become clogged without you noticing it.
Even the most fabulous kitchen and bathroom sinks can be clogged. Don’t forget about your tubs and showers. Anywhere in your homes can anytime experience this problem. Common reasons why these drain line clogs are because of the food or substances. That is because these common reasons don’t usually break down quickly. What else? Even the simplest hair you wash down during a shower can cause clogs!
There are still many other things to discuss why you have to experience clogs. But let’s now focus more on how we can solve the problem. Here are the tips and guides on how you can fix blocked drainage in your homes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Just like when you use first aids at home, you can also use easy tools to unclog your drain line at home. One of the most popular tricks to use is baking soda and vinegar. How is it effective? Simply put hot water into your clogged drain line and put equal portions of baking soda and vinegar after. Cover the top of the drain and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes to make it more effective. Adding hot water can also help.
Similar methods also include baking soda and salt, a combination of vinegar, salt, and lemon, and salt and hot water. Although these have been used by many, the effectiveness may also vary. Furthermore, using too much baking soda in metallic pipes can cause damage.
If you are not sure of the condition of your pipes down there, get some professional help. If you’re living in Newcastle or somewhere nearby, it’s best to get the help of the professionals there. These people have been handling blocked drains in Newcastle with extensive experience and knowledge for years. You will surely not regret hiring one!
Clothes Hanger and Plunger
Another trick you surely have already heard is using a cloth hanger. All you have to do is strengthen the hanger as much as possible and make some bend in the end. Just like fishing, insert it inside the pipes and start pulling out the substances causing the clog. After removing the obstructions, pour hot water to clean the drain further.
A plunger can be multi-purpose. It can be used in clogged drains just as you can use it for clogged toilets. One should not use too much force during the initial plunge as it may splatter all over your sink and floor. Once the water is out, you can now use more force for progress. Just remember to clean the plunger you once used in the bathroom before using it in the kitchen or buy a new one for exclusive use in sinks.
Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner
Too many available tricks to unclog your sinks, but one more effective way is by using your wet and dry vacuum cleaner! It works just like your plungers but with more power and suction. How to start? All you need to have is your wet-dry vacuum and a rug. Simply set your vacuum to wet and remove the plate in your drains if possible. Then, create a tight seal with a rug and turn it on.
If it doesn’t work on the first try, just repeat the steps until your sink drains properly. Furthermore, after turning off the vacuum, make sure you remove the vacuum hose slowly so as not to crack or damage the pipe.
Chemicals for Clogged Drains
If none of the natural ways or methods worked to your clogged drains, then maybe it’s time to use stronger ones like chemicals. But before anything else, make sure you use gloves and eye protection for safety. Furthermore, a well-ventilated room is also necessary. Here are some chemicals you can use for your clogged drain lines:
- Hydrogen Peroxide – Mix one cup of this chemical and a quart of water and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda) – Mix ¾ gallons of caustic soda with three cups of cold water and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Borax, Vinegar, and Salt – Mix ¼ cup of borax, ½ cup of vinegar, ¼ cup of salt, and add hot water; let it sit for one hour.
- Drain Cleaners – To effectively use this chemical, use it as instructed in the packaging.
- Green Enzyme Cleaners – This cleaner contains natural enzymes great for hair clogs or any other substance.
Clear the Trap
If all the methods mentioned above are ineffective, you can also try your last resort, the u-shaped pipe beneath the sink. Loosen the nut, remove it, and remove all possible dirt and substances you see.
Takeaway
No matter how much you take care, our plumbing fixtures are still subject to clogs. If you are not sure how to solve the problem, do not hesitate to ask for help. This way, it will be easier to trace the problem and fix what needs to be done with the help of a professional.
