Before giving us a call, there are a few simple things you can try at home. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the best way to unblock a drain, these methods can help clear smaller blockages and keep things flowing.

Start with boiling water

One of the easiest and most effective starting points is boiling water. It can help break down grease, soap build-up and minor debris sitting in your pipes.

• Pour it slowly in a few stages to give it time to work between each pour.
• Mix in 1/2 cup salt, 1/2 cup bi-carb soda, and 1 cup vinegar for a natural solution that adds some natural enzymes to help break down the blockage.

This will only work on smaller blockages and is best used as a preventative measure to clear blocked drains.

Try a plunger 

Sometimes, a simple plunger is all you need. By creating pressure, it helps shift blockages and get water moving again. It’s particularly effective for sinks, showers and toilets where the clog hasn’t travelled too far down the pipe. Make sure you have a good seal and use steady, controlled pressure rather than aggressive force.

Use store-bought chemical substances

Most hardware stores will stock a variety of chemical drain cleaners that can dissolve hair, soap scum and organic waste. These products can be highly dangerous and bad for our environment, so make sure you read all the directions carefully before using them. You can get serious chemical burns from these products so please be careful, use the proper safety equipment and store safely away from children’s reach!

Keep in mind that these substances are not always the best way to unblock a drain, especially for ongoing or stubborn issues.

Clean the U-Bend

And finally, for the advanced DIY-er. Grease and oil often clog the pipes before they get too far into your system, therefore clearing the U-shaped pipe under your sink might do the trick.

1. Put a bucket underneath the u-bend trap to collect any spillages, then loosen the slip nuts at both ends of the pipe.
2. Once removed, empty the contents into your bucket and give the inside a good scrub with a brush.
3. After you’ve given the pipe a rinse, reattach it, making sure the nuts are tightened to prevent leaks.

If your blocked drain is something more serious, the professionals from Seaview Plumbing have the tools and experience needed to fix the problem efficiently and effectively. We offer prompt and reliable service to unblock a drain and to make sure your pipes are clean and clear again.

Want to do some maintenance yourself so it doesn’t happen again? Click here for some simple tips on how to make sure you don’t get a blocked drain.