When your drains start to block up, it’s time to take action before the issue gets out of hand. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to handle blocked drains yourself, if you know what to do. Read on to find out how you can unblock a drain yourself – click here to finally say goodbye to those pesky clogs.
How to Tell When a Drain is Blocked
The most obvious sign of a blocked drain is slow or no-water draining. Sometimes, water will also come up from the sink or bathtub when you try to flush the toilet. These are all common signs that you may have a blocked drain.
If you notice any of these signs, the sooner you act and tackle the problem the better. If ignored, it’s likely to result in an overflowing sink which can be a nightmare to deal with.
Possible Causes of Blocked Drains
The cause of a blocked drain can vary from household to household. It could be as simple as leftover food particles clogging up the pipes, to something more serious like tree roots causing a leak. Some drains can even get blocked due to an accumulation of soap, lint, and hair.
Identifying the Problem
Sometimes, it can be tricky to identify what is causing the blockage. In this case, it’s usually a good idea to call a professional drain cleaner who will be able use specialised equipment to determine the exact source of the problem.
DIY Solutions
If you decide to take on the challenge yourself, then you should begin by investigating the drain cover to see if you can spot anything that’s blocking it. If not, then head down to your local DIY store to pick up some non-toxic chemicals designed specifically to dissolve blockages. Always wear protective gloves when using these products, as they can be hazardous to your health if used incorrectly. Make sure to follow any instructions listed on the bottle carefully.
Plungers
Plungers are another great way to help unclog your drains. The suction from a plunger works in much the same way as a vacuum cleaner, helping to suck out the debris that’s blocking the drain. Take care when using plungers, as they can be quite messy – but they can be very effective when used correctly.
Snake & Auger
If the above DIY methods don’t work, then your best bet is to purchase a snake or auger from your local hardware store. This device consists of a long coil of metal that you feed into the drain, allowing you to hook onto any blockages and pull them out. Make sure to wear protective gloves when using the device, as the debris from the blockage can be rather unpleasant.
So, there you have it – a foolproof guide to tackling those difficult blocked drains. Remember, the best thing to do is act fast, as ignoring the issue can lead to far bigger problems in the future. We wish you luck in your plumbing endeavors – happy unblocking!