Having a clogged drain can put anyone at wit’s end. Looking at the standing water in your kitchen or bathroom sink or tub is undeniably irksome. Unfortunately, that water won’t move unless you do something about it. Who knows what caused the clog? Fat, oil, grease, soap or hair are the common causes of clogs. If you’re up for the challenge, we can teach you three ways on how to unclog a drain by yourself. Just follow the simple steps below to bid the clog goodbye.
Unclog a Drain Using Chemical Cleaners
For a quick and easy unclogging, you may turn to chemical cleaners. We recommend taking precautions since misusing them can cause severe health problems, explosion, and damage to the septic tank or impair the surface of your bathroom or kitchen fixtures. Use any chemical cleaner cautiously. Read the instructions and use as much chemical, as directed. Keep it away from children. Follow the steps below on how to unclog a drain using a chemical cleaner.
1. Hold securely the handle of the chemical drain cleaner as you open the lid. Avoid splashing or squeezing the bottle.
2. Pour the recommended amount of chemical cleaner into the drain. Tighten the lid of the bottle after use.
3. Wait for 15-30 minutes (depending on the instructions) for the chemical to take effect. Make sure not to use the drain yet.
4. Once you clear out the clog, run hot water into it to clear out chemical residue.
For an effective liquid drain opener, you should get a hold of Green Gobbler Drain Dissolver. With its revolutionary formula, it’s the only chemical drain opener you will ever need. It’s safer than other drain openers, so you can rest easy. It’s environment-friendly, which is a major plus! It can effectively liquefy any hair, soap, paper, and grease within minutes. It’s also designed for use in any household drain.
Within 15-30 minutes, the Green Gobbler Drain Opener Pacs can solve your sluggish drain. Perfect for all clogged drains even toilets, this drain opener works wonders by dissolving any persisting clog. It’s environmental-friendly and biodegradable, a healthier and safer alternative to most toxic drain openers. Simply tear and pour content completely into the drain, wait for a few minutes, and voila! Enjoy a clog-free sink in no time.
Restoring your drain into its excellent condition is easy with Drano Max Gel Clog Remover. Get rid of any clog within just seven minutes after pouring this amazing drain cleaner. It’s also safe for all pipes so, you don’t need to worry a thing. Do not use it though in toilets. This drain cleaner is safe to leave in drains overnight.
Snake a Drain to Clear the Clog
A drain snake is a low-tech tool that effectively removes an accessible stubborn clog deep within the drainpipe. Just a heads up though: it requires a lot of work.
1. Insert the rear end of the drain snake into the drain opening, and twist the handle.
2. Push the snake further into the drain until it reaches the blockage. Apply pressure as you crank the handle to make it pass through the narrow curve in the trap of the sink.
3. Keep twisting the snake until the blockage frees. The clog attaches to the tip of the snake so, when you pull the snake out, you’ll likely pull the clog out with it. There are times that the clog is flushed down the drain.
4. Lastly, run full force water for a few minutes to check whether the drain is completely clog-free.
You can use the Vastar 19.6 Snake Hair Drain Clog Remover Cleaning Tool for this DIY unclogging project. This zip-it clean plastic device just does wonders. It’s easy to use by inserting into the pipe and pulling it out.
For a great home investment, you can opt for Drainx Pro 50-FT Steel Drum Auger Plumbing Snake. It has long-lasting steel drum housing with an easy-grip handle. This hand-driven drum auger works by turning the knob to manually drive the snake into the drain until the pipe is free from any clog.
Detach Drain Trap to Remove a Clog
Another method to clear out the clog from your drain is to disassemble the drain trap under the sink. This may take some work and need a tool, but the result is worth the trouble. Check out how to unclog a drain using a simple snake.
1. Start by getting rid of the standing water in the sink. You can scoop it out and sponge out the remaining water.
2. Place a bucket or any container beneath the drain trap to catch water.
3. Use your hand to loosen the slip nuts that hold the trap. If it won’t budge, use channel-type pliers to unscrew them completely.
4. Remove the trap. Pull it straight down into the bucket or container to empty its contents such as water or any clog.
5. Examine the trap closely for any remaining debris. You can use a toothbrush or any small cleaning brush to thoroughly clean inside. You can also flush it with water in another sink.
6. Once the drain is clog-free, you can re-assemble the drain trap. Tighten the slip nuts using your hands.
7. Then, use the channel-type pliers to further tighten the seal. Just don’t overdo it.
8. Flush full force water for a few minutes to verify that the drain is already clog-free.
9. Don’t forget to check for leaks. If there’s any, slightly tighten the joints with the pliers.
If you have a damaged drain trap, replacing it with Snappy Trap Universal Drain Kit can save the day. It has a smooth interior for no clog and leaks. It’s easy to install and complements any home design.
If you have no patience to do the dirty work and prefer a guaranteed solution to your sluggish drain then, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. Armed with skills and years of experience, a plumber can clear your drain without a fuss.