Are you tired of dealing with clogged drains that leave you standing in a pool of dirty water? Fear not, for unblocking a drain is a task that can easily be accomplished with a few simple tools and techniques. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how to unblock a drain and get your plumbing flowing smoothly again.
First, gather the tools you’ll need for the job. These include a plunger, a pair of pliers, and a drain snake. A plunger is a must-have tool for unclogging drains, as it uses suction to loosen and remove blockages.
Pliers can be used to remove any visible debris that may be caught in the drain. A drain snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is a long, flexible tool that can be inserted into the drain to remove blockages that are out of reach.
Begin by using the plunger to create suction and loosen any blockages that may be near the surface. Place the plunger over the drain and press down firmly, then pull up quickly.
Repeat this process several times until you feel the blockage begin to give way. If the plunger is not effective, move on to the next step.
Next, use the pliers to remove any visible debris that may be caught in the drain. This could include hair, food particles, or even small toys. Be careful not to push the debris further down the drain, as this can make the blockage worse.
If the plunger and pliers don’t work, it’s time to break out the drain snake. Insert the snake into the drain and begin turning the handle clockwise to push the blockage through the drain. If you can’t clear the blockage, try moving the snake further down the drain to reach the blockage.
It’s important to note that if the blockage is caused by a more serious problem like a broken pipe, a root growing into the pipe or a grease build-up, the best option would be to call a professional drainage company.
As always, prevention is better than cure, here are a few ways to help prevent your drains from clogging and blocking in the future…
Preventative Measures to Stop Your Drains Blocking
- Use a drain cover: A simple and effective way to prevent clogs is to use a drain cover or strainer in sinks, showers, and bathtubs to catch hair and other debris before it goes down the drain.
- Dispose of grease properly: cooking oils and grease can solidify in pipes and cause clogs. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it cool and solidify, then dispose of it in the trash.
- Don’t flush inappropriate items: Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Items such as baby wipes, sanitary products, and paper towels can cause clogs in the pipes.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners: These can be harsh on pipes and can cause more harm than good.
- Regularly clean your drains: You can use a plunger, a plumbing snake, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break up and flush out any debris that may be accumulating in your pipes.
- Professional cleaning: Hire professional plumbers to clean your drains and pipes regularly. They will use specialized equipment and techniques to clean your pipes and prevent clogs from forming.
How to Clear a Blocked Drain Outside
- Locate the source of the blockage by inspecting the drain.
- Use a plumbing snake or a long, flexible rod to reach and remove any debris that is blocking the drain.
- If the blockage is not easily reachable, you can use a high-pressure water jet to forcefully clear it.
- If the blockage persists, you may need to disassemble the drainpipes to remove it.
- Once the blockage is cleared, run water through the drain to ensure it is flowing properly.
- If the problem persists, call a professional drainage contractor for further assistance.
How to Clear a Blocked Drain Inside
- Start by using a plunger to try and clear the blockage.
- If that doesn’t work, try using a plumbing snake or an auger to break up and remove the blockage.
- If the blockage is still not cleared, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
- If none of these methods work, you may need to call a drainage company to have the blockage cleared professionally.
Best Drain Un-blockers
Some popular drain unblocking products include:
- Drain-FX: a liquid solution that uses a unique hydro jetting technology to clear clogs and build-up in pipes
- Drano: a liquid solution that contains powerful chemicals to break down and dissolve hair, grease, and other clogs
- Bio Clean: a natural and safe alternative to chemical drain cleaners, made from a combination of bacteria and enzymes
- Zip-It: a plastic tool with small hooks on the end that can be inserted into the drain to pull out hair and other debris
- Plunger: a simple tool that uses suction to remove clogs from drains.
It’s always important to read the label and follow the instructions when using any product, and to wear protective gear if necessary. If the clog is severe, it’s always best to call a professional drainage company.
In conclusion, unblocking a drain may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s a task that can easily be accomplished. Next time you find yourself dealing with a clogged drain, remember to grab your plunger, pliers, and drain snake and get to work. Who knows, you might even find a lost toy or two in the process. Happy unclogging!
Why Choose Us for Your Drain Unblocking Needs?
If you’re suffering from a blocked drain in London, please don’t hesitate to call the professionals at Flo-Well drainage for prompt and friendly service.
Choosing Flo-Well as your London drainage company is a smart decision for several reasons. Our team is made up of highly skilled and experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing efficient and reliable service. We use the latest technology and equipment to quickly diagnose and fix any drainage issues you may have. Additionally, we offer competitive pricing and a satisfaction guarantee for all our services.
With Flo-Well, you can have peace of mind knowing that your drainage problems will be handled quickly and effectively!