Is there a drain blockage in your home? Here are six fuss-free ways to get them sorted in minimal time.
Blocked drains are a nightmarish affair, and it’s one of the most common reasons to call a plumber. While some blockages may seem minor, they can overflow and affect the plumbing in your home, causing bigger headaches in the future.
So how do you know if your drain is blocked? Here are some telling signs:
- You hear gurgling noises in your drain
- Water seems slow to drain from your sink, shower and bathtub
- The water levels in your toilet may look lower than usual
- You notice a foul or pungent smell coming out from your drain or toilet
If there are any of these signs in your home, it’s highly likely your drain is blocked. But don’t panic just yet! Instead, follow these easy steps.
1. Pour boiling water down your drain
This should be one of the first steps you try to unclog a blocked drain. Boiling water helps break up any grease and oils in the drains, and they could help remove the blockage. In fact, we recommend pouring boiling water down your sink regularly to avoid grease build-up.
2. Use a plunger to remove the blockage
A trusty plunger can remove smaller drain blockages, so try using it as an alternative. Plungers provide a vacuum effect through the pipes to clear away the clogs, making it a simple yet efficient tool.
3. Use chemical drain cleaners
Store-bought chemical drain cleaners may be a stronger choice for tough drain blockage. However, these cleaners may cause corrosion and are harmful to the environment. So always use a glove and follow the instructions before using them.
4. Bicarbonate soda and vinegar
A possible alternative to drain cleaners is using your own household products as a mix. For example, you can pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar and hot water after a few minutes. This acid-based reaction may help to unclog your blocked drains.
5. Clean the pipe
Sometimes, clearing the U-shaped pipe underneath the sink may help unblock your drain. So try cleaning it and removing any trapped debris or content inside the pipes and use a bucket to avoid any messy spillage in your home.
6. DIY Wire hanger
If you have a thin metal wire or a coat hanger, this can be used as a DIY drain snake. Insert your DIY snake into the plughole and try to fish out any blockages with the hook.
7. When all else fails – call a plumber
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, some drains just need a plumber’s touch, so don’t hesitate to call Seaview Plumbing!
Contact us to service your blocked drains in Adelaide or call us at 1300 634 308 for any emergency plumbing request.