A clogged drain can be a major inconvenience, causing water to back up in your sink, shower, or toilet. In some cases, it can even lead to water damage or mold growth. However, fixing a clogged drain is often a simple and inexpensive task that you can do yourself. In this guide, we will show you how to fix a clogged drain using a variety of tools and techniques.
Materials Needed
- Plunger
- Drain snake or auger
- Baking soda and vinegar
- Chemical drain cleaner
- Bucket or towel (for cleaning up any spilled water)
Step 1: Use a Plunger The first step in fixing a clogged drain is to use a plunger. A plunger works by creating a seal around the drain and then using suction to dislodge the blockage. To use a plunger:
- Fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the end of the plunger.
- Place the plunger over the drain and press down firmly.
- Pull up quickly to create suction.
- Repeat this process several times.
If the plunger doesn’t work, move on to step 2.
Step 2: Use a Drain Snake or Auger If the plunger doesn’t work, the next step is to use a drain snake or auger. A drain snake is a long, flexible cable that can be inserted into the drain to break up and remove blockages. An auger is similar, but it has a hand-crank that allows you to manually rotate the cable. To use a drain snake or auger:
- Insert the cable into the drain as far as it will go.
- Use the hand-crank (if using an auger) or push-and-pull motion (if using a snake) to break up and remove the blockage.
- Slowly withdraw the cable, being careful not to push the blockage further into the drain.
If the drain snake or auger doesn’t work, move on to step 3.
Step 3: Use a Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution If the plunger and drain snake or auger don’t work, you can try using a baking soda and vinegar solution to break up and remove the blockage. To use this method:
- Mix a solution of 1/3 cup baking soda and 1/3 cup vinegar in a cup.
- Slowly pour the solution down the drain.
- Let the solution sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Flush the drain with hot water.
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If the baking soda and vinegar solution doesn’t work, move on to step 4.
Step 4: Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner As a last resort, you can use a chemical drain cleaner to remove the blockage. However, be aware that chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and potentially damaging to your pipes, and should be used with caution. To use a chemical drain cleaner:
- Carefully read and follow the instructions on the product label.
- Pour the cleaner down the drain.
- Allow the cleaner to sit for the amount of time recommended on the label.
- Flush the drain with hot water.
Prevention The best way to avoid clogged drains is to prevent them from happening in the first place. You can do this by:
- Being mindful of what you put down your drains (e.g. avoid pouring grease or oil down the kitchen sink)
- Installing strainers in your sinks and