more information – knowing what causes blocked drains and how to tackle them – can give us the confidence to unclog drains ourselves. Read on to learn more about blocked drains and how you can effectively unclog them.
What Causes Blocked Drains?
Let’s start by looking at what exactly causes blocked drains. The most common cause of blocked drains is a buildup of a combination of hair, soap residue, and/or food grease. These items accumulate in your pipes and form a plug, stopping up the drain.
At times, objects can get stuck in the drain, such as jewelry, children’s toys, or even small pieces of clothing. Tree roots can even infiltrate pipes and cause blockages. If this occurs, it’s time to call a professional for help.
Signs You Have a Blocked Drain
A blocked drain can be hard to detect until it’s too late. This is why it’s important to be aware of some of the signs that may indicate you have a drainage issue. Common indicators include slow draining or a complete lack of drainage when using your sink, bathtub, or shower. You may also notice bad odors emanating from the drains themselves.
Additionally, if you have multiple clogged drains throughout your house, you could have an issue with main sewer line. In this case, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to assess the problem.
DIY Tips to Unblock Your Drains
For minor blockages, there are several DIY methods to unclog your drains. For example, one tried-and-true method is to use baking soda and vinegar. Pour 1-3 cups of baking soda into the drain, followed by 1-3 cups of white vinegar. Cover the drain and wait 30 minutes (or longer if needed) before flushing with hot water. This process should be able to clear out soap, hair, and other debris.
If you need more power, try using a plunger. Make sure the plunger has a good seal over the drain before plunging vigorously for a few minutes. For tough clogs, you can use an auger or plumber’s snake. Insert the head into the drain and turn the handle clockwise to break up the obstruction. When finished, flush the drain with hot water.
When To Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried all the above options with no success, don’t despair – simply call in the experts. Professional plumbers will use pressurized water jets to flush drains clear. They’ll also have the tools and expertise to identify where the blockage is located and remove it without causing any additional damage.
Ignoring slow or blocked drains can lead to costly repairs. Therefore, it’s better to call in a plumber sooner rather than later. This way, you can save yourself some money and worry.
Conclusion
Blocked drains can be a nuisance and can lead to bigger problems if not fixed quickly. Remember, if you’re experiencing recurring blocked drains, it might be time to consider having your pipes inspected or replaced.
With the right information – as discussed here – you can easily tackle blocked drains yourself. Hopefully, this article gave you the information and confidence you need to confidently unblock your own drains.
