Clogged and backed-up drains around your home can be incredibly frustrating. However, with the right tools and information, they are often relatively easy to resolve! To help you out, the pros at Sal Manzo Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Inc. have compiled a list of effective ways to unclog drains and keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.

Unclogging Bathtub Drains

Bathtub drains are magnets for hair and soap scum. You’ll notice a problem when water starts pooling around your feet during a shower. Here is how to handle it:

• Manual Removal: Remove the stopper and use a gloved hand to pull out hair near the surface. To prevent this in the future, we highly recommend using an inexpensive hair catcher.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain. Follow it with half a gallon of hot water and let it sit overnight to break down organic matter.
• Use a Drain Claw: This inexpensive wire tool can reach a few inches deeper than your fingers to grab stubborn hair clogs.

Clearing Sink Drains

A standard, cup-shaped plunger is the best tool for sinks. Fill the sink with a few inches of water to cover the drain, then form a tight seal with the plunger cup. Use sharp, rhythmic up-and-down motions to create the pressure needed to dislodge the blockage.

Fixing Toilet Clogs

Toilet clogs require a different approach and slightly different tools:

• The Flange Plunger: Unlike sink plungers, toilet plungers have an extended flange (a narrow sleeve) that fits into the toilet’s drain hole to create a better seal.
• The Wire Hanger Method: You can fashion a DIY tool by straightening a wire coat hanger and wrapping a small rag around the end (to prevent scratching the porcelain). Use it to gently push obstructions through the trap.
• Chemical Cleaners: These should be a last resort. They can corrode older pipes and contain harsh fumes. Always ensure a cleaner is specifically labeled “”safe for toilets”” before use.

Conclusion

While many clogs can be handled with simple DIY methods, some blockages are deep within your main sewer line and require professional equipment. If your DIY efforts aren’t doing the trick, or if you’re experiencing multiple backups at once, it’s time to call in the experts to prevent potential water damage.