4 Ways To Unblock Your Blocked Drain

There are several methods to unblock a blocked drain, including:

• Boiling water – pour boiling water down the drain. This will help loosen any blockages.

Although boiling water cannot unblock a drain entirely, it can help to clear minor clogs in the pipes. When hot water is poured down the drain or in the sink, it can loosen up any grease or dirt that might be clogging it. This happens because the heat causes the substance to melt or dissolve, making it easier to flush out into the main sewer line. However, if the clog is too severe or stubborn, boiling water might not be effective in resolving the issue. In such cases, it is best to call a plumber or use a drain-cleaning product specifically designed to remove blockages.

• Plunger – use a plunger to try and dislodge the blockage. 

1. Fill the sink or bathtub with enough water to cover the plunger head.
2. Position the plunger directly over the drain, making sure the plunger head covers the entire opening.
3. Push down on the plunger with force, creating a seal between the plunger head and the drain.
4. Rapidly move the plunger up and down, applying pressure to the clog and loosening it.
5. Continue plunging for at least 10-15 seconds, then remove the plunger and wait to see if the water drains properly. If it does not, repeat the process until the drain is clear.
6. Once the clog is removed, run hot water down the drain for a few minutes to clear any residual debris.

• Baking soda and vinegar. 

1. First, remove any visible debris or hair from the drain.
2. Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to loosen any accumulated debris.
3. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
4. Pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain on top of the baking soda.
5. Cover the drain with a drain plug if possible, or a washcloth if not.
6. Wait 5-10 minutes while the vinegar and baking soda react and fizz in the drain.
7. Pour another pot of boiling water down the drain to flush out any remaining debris.
8. Repeat the process if necessary.

Note: This method may not work for stubborn or severe blockages. If the drain is still clogged after several attempts, it may be necessary to contact us. 

• Drain snake: Use a drain snake to remove any blockages inside the drain pipes.

1. Wear protective gloves and eye goggles to avoid splashes.
2. Remove the drain cover or grate.
3. Insert the snake into the drain until you reach the blockage. If it’s a bathtub or shower drain, you may need to remove the drain stopper first.
4. Turn the handle of the drain snake clockwise to loosen the debris or clog. Do not force it as it could damage the pipes.
5. Keep rotating the handle while pushing the snake forward and pulling it back. Continue until the blockage is cleared, or you feel no resistance.
6. Once the blockage is cleared, slowly retract the snake, and remove any debris that came up with it.
7. Run hot water down the drain to flush away any remaining debris and test the drain to ensure it’s unclogged.
8. Clean and sanitize the drain snake, and replace the drain cover or grate.
9. Dispose of any debris safely and wash your gloves thoroughly.

 Remember to bear in mind that a drain snake is not always recommended for fixing a blocked toilet. It could cause damage to the porcelain. If you are unfamiliar with this method, you may be best using a plunger.

You may see a lot of drainage companies recommending a chemical unblocker. However, we do not engage in activities that may cause harm to individuals or property, including providing instructions on how to use hazardous chemicals. Therefore, it is best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and consider contacting a professional for assistance. 

Remember, prevention is better than cure. Regular maintenance of drains by cleaning them with hot water and avoiding pouring any solid or liquid waste can prevent blockages.

If you have tried all the above methods, and you are still having issues, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch today. We can come and assess what the underlying issue is and get this resolved in no time.