It can be frustrating. You just want to brush your teeth and go to bed, but the water in the sink keeps rising. Who wants to worry about drain cleaning at bedtime? Maybe you are getting ready for dinner guests when you realize your kitchen sink isn’t draining. There is no convenient time for a clog but it does seem that they tend to happen when you don’t have time to deal with them.
Blockages can occur for a variety of reasons. Bathroom sink, tub and shower drains frequently have a buildup of hair in them. Kitchen sinks can get clogged with grease or food particles. Before you call New Canadian Drain & Plumbing; an expert plumber, try some of these DIY tips to get your pipes flowing freely again.
Your Favorite Cola Is Not Just for Drinking
You may not realize it, but your favorite fizzy beverage is more acidic than vinegar or lemon juice. The ingredient that gives that tangy, crisp bite is phosphoric acid and it can help you clear out the gunk in your drain, allowing the water to flow down again instead of back up.
It Doesn’t Always Require Special Tools
Wire hangers can be quite versatile. They can hang your clothes, store a wreath, contribute themselves to school art projects and, at least in older cars, open a locked door. They also make great tools to fish nasty stuff out of stopped up pipes. Just straighten one out leaving a small hook on one end then thread it through the drain after removing the drain cover. When you get to the area of resistance, turn the hanger around to try to snare the clog and bring it slowly back out with the hook.
Boiling Water Can Do More Than Make Tea
One of the simplest and cheapest do-it-yourself methods to help speed the drainage process along is boiling water. This can work really well for clogs involving grease or soap residue. Just pour part of the boiling water slowly into your drain. Wait a few seconds, then repeat. Do this in two to three stages until the water is gone and the sink is free of standing water.
All Snakes Aren’t Scary
Sometimes the offending blockage may be further than a hanger can reach. In that case, there is something called a snake that can be your best friend. They come in a variety of lengths to reach even the hardest to find clogs.
Clean Your Drains While Baking Cookies
If the boiling water by itself didn’t do the trick, try adding some baking soda between pours of water. You should have a running drain by the time your cookies are ready.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
