One of the most common household repairs can cause a big headache for most homeowners. Clogged drains are mainly caused by hair and other materials going down them instead of into the garbage. They also happen because of poor maintenance. You need to keep them clear of hair and other debris.

When it comes to unclogging a drain, there are a few things that you need to know. First, you need to make sure that you have the right tools. Second, you need to be very careful not to cause any damage to the drain. Third, you need to be aware of the potential problems that can occur when unclogging the drain.

What Causes a Blocked Drain

Different reasons lead to a blocked drain, including;

1. Hair

Hair is one of the most common causes of a blocked drain, as it can quickly build up and lead to a blockage. You can prevent this by using a hair catcher whenever you take a shower and ensuring you dispose of any leftover hair properly.

2. Soap Buildup

If you use a lot of soap in your household, you may end up with a clogged drain due to the fact that soaps leave a residue in the drain that hardens and clogs the pipes. The best way to prevent this from happening is to make sure to pour a gallon of boiling water down the drain after each time you wash clothes to melt any soap that may be left behind. Additionally, you can use a sink strainer to catch any loose soap suds before they can reach the drain and harden.

3. Grease

Grease can build up over time and lead to a clogged drain. You can prevent this by wiping up any grease that spills and not pouring it down the drain.

4. Food

Small pieces of food can easily lead to a clogged drain. You can prevent this by disposing of food properly and not letting it go down the drain.

How To Unblock a Drain

Now that we know what can cause a blockage, let’s have a look at the different ways to unblock a drain:

1. Use a Plunger

For a plunger, put a rubber cup over the overflow hole to prevent mess. Insert the plunger into the drain and push and pull it up and down vigorously. If this doesn’t work, try using a wire hanger for fishing out any debris that might be causing the blockage.

2. Use Boiling Water

If you think the clog is caused by grease, you can try pouring boiling water down the drain. Just be careful not to splash yourself.

3. Use Vinegar And Baking Soda

If you have a slow-draining sink, this method might help. Pour ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes, and then pour a pot of boiling water over it.

4. Use a Plumber’s Snake

You might need to use a plumber’s snake if you have a serious clog. Insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise. Push the snake down the drain until you feel resistance. Once you hit the clog, turn the handle counterclockwise to loosen the clog. Then, pull the snake out of the drain.

5. Call a Plumber

If you’ve tried all these methods and nothing is working, it’s time to call a plumber. A specialist can use a drain inspection camera and identify any clogs or cracks in your pipes. If it is needed, they can also perform a drain relining.

The sooner you address any issues, the easier they are to fix. Additionally, you can avoid future issues by keeping your pipes in good condition and maintaining a routine inspection schedule.

Final Thoughts

The best way to deal with a clogged drain is to prevent it from happening in the first place. You don’t want clogged drains in your home, but you especially don’t want to deal with the mess and expense of a backup caused by a clogged drain. Blocked drains are inconvenient at best and dangerous at worst. They leave you without a functioning sink or toilet for who knows how long. Plus, they usually require the assistance of a professional to get your drain working again.