'How to Unclog a Drain'

How many times have our drains been clogged and we immediately call a plumber to fix it? Have you ever thought that you could fix it yourself without the need of wasting your time and money? Here is your solution.

All plumbing systems develop clogs, some time or another, and there’s no way you can avoid it. However, most stopped-up sinks and plugged toilets can be fixed without the need of calling a plumber.

Everyone knows the inconvenience and mess that accompany a sluggish drain. Even so, many people wait until the drain stops completely before they take corrective action. Sometimes a clog can be cleared with a simple homemade remedy; all you need is a little determination and the right tools.

The plumbing tools you need to withstand these clogs are affordable and you can find them at any ironmongery shop. The first tool you need, and which should be kept handy, is the plunger which is used by the plumber to clear clogs from most fixtures including sinks, toilets and tubs. If the clog is located farther down the drainpipe, you will need a cable auger or plumber’s snake, which are long, flexible steel cable wound around a spool that’s fitted with a turning device. A closet auger is specifically made for fixing toilets. Similar to the plumber’s snake, it is equipped with a hand crank but instead of a spool, the cable is wrapped in a rigid shaft. Its end is bent at a precise angle to fit through the tight curves of a toilet trap.

If you have a moderately clogged drain, you might want to try this homemade method: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Be careful! The two ingredients interact with foaming and fumes, so replace the drain cover loosely. Let the concoction set for about three hours before running water. If you know the slow drain is from grease, try this treatment: Pour in 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of baking soda followed by a teakettle of boiling water. Allow this combination to sit overnight.

If you want to keep your drains clog-free and odorless you should use this noncorrosive drain cleaner weekly. Combine 1 cup baking soda, 1 cup table salt, and 1/4 cup cream of tartar. Stir ingredients together thoroughly and pour into a clean, covered jar. Pour 1/4 cup of mixture into drain, and immediately add 1 cup boiling water. Wait 10 seconds, then flush with cold water.

Flushing weekly with a generous amount of boiling water also works well. Remember, if you can't clear a clog after a few attempts, turn the job over to a drain-cleaning service or licensed plumber. Exerting too much force can permanently damage a pipe or fixture.