With the beautiful and sometimes unpredictable weather in Torquay, we occasionally have to deal with blocked drains. Instead of automatically calling for plumbing services which can often be costly and time-consuming, you might want to try out some DIY tips that could save you both time and money. This article will provide you with step-by-step procedures on how to clear blocked drains yourself.
Before we begin, please note that while these tips are useful for minor blockages, they might not work for serious or deeply lodged blockages. In those cases, it’s always safer and wiser to call in the professionals. Now, let’s delve right in.
1. Boiling Water: This is the simplest and most straightforward method. Boiling water can often solve minor blockages, especially those caused by accumulated grease, soap or food particles. Pour a pot of boiling water directly down the drain and wait for a few minutes. The heat should dissolve and dislodge the obstruction.
2. Plunger: It’s an oldie but a goodie. A plunger creates suction that can effectively dislodge minor blockages. Make sure there is enough water in the sink or bathtub to cover the base of the plunger. Place the plunger over the drain, pump vigorously and then swiftly pull up the plunger. Repeat a few times to see if the blockage is cleared.
3. Drain Snake: A drain snake (also known as a plumber’s snake) is a flexible metal rod that is pushed down the drain to dislodge the blockage. This tool can be used for slightly more stubborn clogs. You can purchase one in Torquay’s local hardware store.
4. Vinegar and Baking Soda: Combine 1/3rd of a cup of vinegar and 1/3rd of a cup of baking soda, and immediately pour the fizzing mixture down the drain. The fizzing action will help break up the gunk, hair, and grime that has built up in the pipe. After an hour, rinse with hot water.
5. Dishwashing detergent and Hot Water: Soap can be a useful tool in breaking up greasy clogs. Combine 1/4th cup of dish detergent with hot water, and pour it down the drain. Leave it for 20-30 minutes, then follow it with boiling water to see if the clog has cleared.
6. Wet and Dry Vacuum: A wet and dry vacuum can be a very practical tool to dislodge a blockage. Set your vacuum to vacuum liquids, cover the vent to prevent a mess and create blocked drains torquay a seal over the drain. With the vacuum set to its highest setting, it can be powerful enough to draw the clog up the pipe and into the vacuum bag.
7. Drain Cleaning Bladder: This tool, available at most hardware stores in Torquay, is designed for larger drains such as main drains, sewer drains, landscape watering drains, and septic field lines. The bladder, which should be inserted into the drain, swells up with water and uses the pressure to break up the clog.
To summarise, clearing a blocked drain does not always require a professional plumber, especially for minor clogs. But if you have tried all the methods mentioned above and the drain is still blocked, do not hesitate to call in a professional. The plumbing system can be complex and you don’t want to unknowingly cause more damage by trying to handle a severe blockage.
Remember, conducting regular drain maintenance can go a long way in preventing blockages. That includes not pouring fats, oils or anything hard or fibrous down the drains. Let’s keep our drains running clear and our beautiful Torquay pristine.