How to Unclog Drains: Effective Methods and When to Call a Professional

Blog Layout

How to Unclog Drains: Effective Methods and When to Call a Professional

December 12, 2024

How to Unclog Drains: Effective Methods and When to Call a Professional

Clogged drains are the last thing anyone wants, it can be a major inconvenience, disrupting the flow of water in your sinks, tubs, and showers. Whether you're dealing with a small obstruction or severe blockage, there are a several ways to clear the drain yourself before calling in a plumber. In this article, we’ll discuss common techniques for unclogging drains, which may include using a plunger, a drain snake, natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar, and when it’s time to call in the professionals.

1. Using a Plunger to Clear Minor Clogs

A plunger is often the first tool people reach for when dealing with a clogged drain. It's simple to use, inexpensive, and effective for many types of blockages, especially in toilets and sinks.

How to Use a Plunger:

• Choose the right plunger: There are two main types of plungers. For sinks and tubs, use a cup plunger (flat, with a rubber cup), while for toilets, a flange plunger (with a bell-shaped base) is best.

• Prepare the drain: If you’re working on a sink or tub, fill the basin with enough water to cover the plunger’s cup. For toilets, ensure the bowl is filled to a sufficient level.

• Seal the drain: Place the plunger over the drain and ensure it forms a tight seal.

• Plunge vigorously: Pump the plunger up and down rapidly for 15-30 seconds. You should feel resistance as the air is pushed through the drain. Repeat a few times if necessary.

• Test the drain: After a few plunges, check if the water drains freely. If it does, the clog is cleared!

Tip: If the blockage is in a toilet, make sure to use a plunger with a flange. If it’s a sink or tub, ensure the overflow holes are covered to create proper suction.

2. Using a Drain Snake (Plumbing Auger)

If plunging doesn't solve the problem, a drain snake might be the next best option. This long, flexible tool is designed to reach deeper into your pipes to remove stubborn blockages.

How to Use a Drain Snake:

• Insert the snake into the drain: Feed the snake into the drain slowly. You might need to rotate the handle as you go, which allows the coil to work its way deeper into the pipe.

• Locate the blockage: You’ll feel resistance when the snake meets the clog. Once you reach it, try to break it apart by rotating the handle or pushing the snake forward.

• Remove the clog: If the blockage is dislodged, slowly pull the snake out while continuing to rotate it to avoid damaging your pipes.

• Flush the drain: After removing the snake, run hot water through the drain to flush away any remaining debris.

Tip: For tougher blockages, consider using a motorized drain snake, which is available for rent or purchase at many hardware stores. These are more powerful and can handle deeper clogs.

3. Natural Methods for Clearing Clogs: Baking Soda and Vinegar

If you prefer a more eco-friendly and chemical-free solution, you can try using common household ingredients like baking soda and vinegar. This combination creates a fizzing reaction that can help break up grease, soap scum, and organic matter in your pipes.

How to Use Baking Soda and Vinegar:

• Pour baking soda down the drain: Pour about half a cup of baking soda directly into the drain.

• Add vinegar: Follow with half a cup of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble as it reacts.

• Wait and let it work: Cover the drain (you can use a rag or a drain plug) and wait for about 15-30 minutes. The fizzing action helps to loosen debris and clear mild blockages.

• Flush with hot water: After waiting, flush the drain with boiling water to clear the loosened material.

Tip 1: For extra cleaning power, you can also add salt to the baking soda before pouring it into the drain.

Tip 2: We do not recommend using Drano to clear your drains. Drano is a powerful chemical to help unclog a drain due to how corrosive it is. If used repeatedly or if it sits in the pipes for an extended period, it can cause deterioration of pipes over time.

4. When to Call a Professional Plumber

While most minor clogs can be cleared using the techniques mentioned above, there are times when you should call a professional plumber. If you’ve tried using a plunger, drain snake, or natural methods without success, the blockage may be deep in your pipes, requiring special equipment or professional expertise.

Signs You Should Call a Professional:

• Multiple drains are clogged: If multiple drains in your home are backing up at once, the issue may be with your main sewer line. This can indicate a serious blockage that requires professional attention.

• Persistent odors: If the smell from your drain is foul and won’t go away after attempts to clear it, there could be an issue with the sewer line or a deeper obstruction.

• Slow draining that doesn’t improve: If water is draining slowly despite trying to clear the blockage, it could be a sign of a larger or more complicated problem.

• Frequent clogs: If you experience frequent clogs in the same drain or area, there may be an underlying plumbing issue that needs professional diagnosis.

Conclusion

Unclogging drains can often be done with simple tools and methods that you likely have around the house. From using a plunger and drain snake to natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar, there are several ways to tackle minor blockages. However, for more severe or persistent clogs, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber to ensure the issue is properly addressed.

By learning the right techniques for clearing drains, you can save time and money while keeping your plumbing in good working order. Just remember that if all else fails, JC Plumbing is just a phone call away!

< Older Post

Newer Post >

3 Things to Know When Hiring a Plumbing Expert

February 4, 2025

There are a few important things you should know before you hire a local plumbing expert. Keep reading or contact us today to learn more.

Essential Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should Have

By JC Plumbing • January 22, 2025

Plumbing issues can arise unexpectedly, from a clogged sink to a leaking pipe. Having the right tools on hand can save you money on repairs and help you manage common plumbing problems effectively. In this blog, we'll discuss the essential plumbing tools every homeowner should have, when to use them for maintenance and repairs, and what emergency supplies to keep ready for quick fixes. 1. Pipe wrench: heavy-duty tool for tightening and loosening pipes Wh at it is: A pipe wrench is a must-have for any homeowner dearling with pipes. It's a long-handled tool designed to grip and turn pipes with its adjustable jaws. When to Use: Tightening or loosening pipes: If you're installing or removing plumbing fixtures, a pipe wrench is essential. Working with metal pipes: It's best used for tough, stubborn pipes made of materials like steel or cast iron. TIP: Avoid using a pipe wrench on plastic pipes, as it can crack or damage them. 2. plunger: the go-to tool for unclogging drains What it is: A simple but highly effective tool, the plunger features a rubber cup that forms a seal over drains to create suction, helping dislodge clogs . When to Use: Unclogging toilets, sinks, or tubs: Use the plunger to clear minor blockages in drains. It's most effective when you create a firm seal and use forceful pushes to loosen the clog. Before calling a plumber: If you have a slow drain, a plunger is a great first tool to try. TIP: For toilets, use a flange plunger, which has a bell-shaped bottom designed to fit into toilet drains. 3. Plunging Aids (Augers or Drain Snakes): For Stubborn Clogs What it is: drain auger or snake is a long, flexible tool that helps break up tough blockages deeper in the pipes. When to Use: Clearing deep blockages: If a plunger isn't enough to clear a drain, a drain snake or auger can reach farther into the pipe and help break through tougher clogs. Toilets or showers: When plunging doesn’t work, you may need an auger for toilets or sinks. TIP: Be cautious when using an auger, as it can damage your pipes if used improperly. 4. Pipe Cutters: Clean and Efficient Pipe Cutting What it is: Pipe cutters are specialized tools that help you cut through pipes cleanly and easily, without the jagged edges you might get with a hacksaw. When to Use: Cutting through PVC, copper, or steel pipes: If you're replacing or repairing a section of pipe, a pipe cutter will make the job easier and more precise. When working in tight spaces: The compact design of pipe cutters allows you to cut pipes in areas where a hacksaw might be difficult to maneuver. TIP: For PVC pipes, use a ratchet-style cutter for clean cuts. 5. Adjustable Wrench: Versatility for Tightening Nuts and Bolts What it is: An adjustable wrench has a movable jaw that can be adjusted to fit various sizes of nuts and bolts, making it an essential multi-purpose tool. When to Use: Tightening or loosening nuts: Whether you're working with faucets, pipe fittings, or showerheads, an adjustable wrench can handle a variety of plumbing tasks. For plumbing fixtures: It’s ideal for any nut or bolt that needs to be tightened or loosened without stripping the thread. TIP: Be sure to use the wrench correctly to avoid damaging bolts or nuts. 6. Teflon Tape and or Pipe Thread Sealant: For Sealing Pipe Threads What it is: Teflon tape, also known as plumber’s tape, is a thin white or blue tape used to seal the threads of pipes and fittings to prevent leaks. when to use: Sealing threaded connections: Wrap Teflon tape around pipe threads before screwing them together to create a watertight seal. Fixing minor leaks: If you notice a slight leak at a threaded connection, wrapping it with Teflon tape can help temporarily stop the drip. TIP: Use a few wraps of tape for a tight seal. Too much tape can make it difficult to screw the pipes together. 7. Emergency Plumbing Kit: Be Prepared for Quick Fixes What it is: An emergency plumbing kit includes the basic tools and supplies needed to handle unexpected plumbing emergencies until a professional arrives. What Should Be in Your Kit: Plunger and drain snake: For clearing clogs quickly. Pipe repair clamps: Temporary clamps that can help stop small leaks in pipes until more permanent repairs are made. Bucket and towels: Essential for catching water during a leak or burst pipe. Teflon tape and pipe thread sealant: For sealing leaks or loose pipe connections Pipe insulation: Useful in winter for preventing frozen pipes. TIP: Store these tools in an easily accessible place, such as a utility closet, so you can grab them quickly during an emergency. 8. Additional Plumbing Tools to Consider: Plumbing Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and chemicals when working with plumbing. Hacksaw: For cutting pipes in tight spaces or when a pipe cutter isn’t an option. Level and Plumb Bob: Ensure pipes are correctly aligned when installing new fixtures or pipes Conclusion: By having these essential plumbing tools on hand, homeowners can confidently handle minor plumbing repairs and avoid costly service calls. Whether it's fixing a clogged drain, tightening a loose pipe, or preparing for a plumbing emergency, the right tools make all the difference. Remember to keep your tools organized and easily accessible, and always use them safely to ensure your plumbing systems continue to work smoothly. If you are having problems with your plumbing and do not feel comfortable using these tools or your plumbing problem requires the assistance of a professional give us a call 253-316-7926, JC Plumbing is ready to help with your plumbing needs.