Easy Ways to Unclog Your Drains: Part 1
There are many methods to clear your drains from blockages, but it is not always clear which one is appropriate for your system. As a rule of thumb, it is always best to start with the most gentle treatment to avoid damaging the pipes before moving to aggressive measures.
Here are 3 easy DIY drain cleaning methods explained by our master plumber.
Method #1: Use a Wire Hanger
Skin. hair, dirt, and other particles can easily clog your sink drains as they accumulate on the walls and bind to the soap scum. Over time, this leads to poor water flow. What you can do is take an old wire hanger. Straighten the hanger and create a small hook shape at one end. Push this hook slowly down the plughole and start “fishing.” Use gentle prodding and hooking motions to dislodge and remove the gunk.
Method #2: Dish Detergent
Dish detergent is one of the safest methods to remove clogs in showers and toilet drains. The detergent helps break up residue and lubricates the drains. Use a cup of dish detergent to pour into the drain. Then follow up with boiling water. Get the plunger too. Use rubber gloves if you feel like alleviating the clog yourself.
Method #3: Baking Powder & Vinegar
The combination of baking soda and vinegar is perfect not only for the creation of the volcano in your 7th grade. The mixture’s fizzing power helps clear up mild clogs. It is a perfect solution for bathroom sinks. Get boiling water and pour it down the drain. After that, put in half a cup of soda. Follow that with a mix of one cup of hot water and one cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture work its magic for at least 60 minutes. For maximum effect, let it sit longer. Afterward, clear the drains with hot water from the sink.
If none of the above-mentioned solutions helped, be sure to speak with a skilled professional. The plumbers at Ryan's Plumbing Services in Downey, CA would be happy to assist you clear your drains of clogs and blockages. Call (562) 312-2541 for more tips or a professional drain cleaning service.