Common Home Repairs: Unclogging a Drain
Unclogging a Drain
Difficulty: (Easy)
Time Needed: (30-60 minutes)
Slow or clogged drains are a common issue in many households. Hair, soap scum, and debris can build up in pipes, causing water to drain slowly or not at all. Here's a detailed guide to unclogging a drain:
Tools Needed:
Plunger
Plumber’s snake
Baking soda
Vinegar
Boiling water
Rubber gloves
Steps:
1. Use a Plunger:
- Fill the Sink/Tub with Water: If the drain is in a sink or tub, add enough water to cover the plunger cup.
- Position the Plunger: Place the plunger over the drain, ensuring a tight seal.
- Plunge: Push the plunger down and pull up with force, repeating several times. If the water starts to drain, you’ve cleared the clog. If not, proceed to the next step.
2. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar:
- Pour Boiling Water: Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain.
- Add Baking Soda: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain.
- Add Vinegar: Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the drain. The mixture will fizz and bubble.
- Wait: Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Flush with Boiling Water: Pour another kettle of boiling water down the drain.
3. Use a Plumber’s Snake:
- Insert the Snake: Push the end of the plumber’s snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise to extend it further into the pipe.
- Break Up the Clog: When you feel resistance, you’ve reached the clog. Twist and push the snake to break up the clog.
- Remove the Snake: Pull the snake out and dispose of any debris it brings up.
- Flush with Water: Run hot water to flush out any remaining debris.
Tips:
- Wear rubber gloves to keep your hands clean.
- If the clog persists, you may need to repeat the process or call a professional.
1. Use a Plunger:
- Fill the Sink/Tub with Water: If the drain is in a sink or tub, add enough water to cover the plunger cup.
- Position the Plunger: Place the plunger over the drain, ensuring a tight seal.
- Plunge: Push the plunger down and pull up with force, repeating several times. If the water starts to drain, you’ve cleared the clog. If not, proceed to the next step.
2. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar:
- Pour Boiling Water: Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain.
- Add Baking Soda: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain.
- Add Vinegar: Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the drain. The mixture will fizz and bubble.
- Wait: Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Flush with Boiling Water: Pour another kettle of boiling water down the drain.
3. Use a Plumber’s Snake:
- Insert the Snake: Push the end of the plumber’s snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise to extend it further into the pipe.
- Break Up the Clog: When you feel resistance, you’ve reached the clog. Twist and push the snake to break up the clog.
- Remove the Snake: Pull the snake out and dispose of any debris it brings up.
- Flush with Water: Run hot water to flush out any remaining debris.
Tips:
- Wear rubber gloves to keep your hands clean.
- If the clog persists, you may need to repeat the process or call a professional.