How to Clear a Clogged Drain

 

If your sink or tub drain is slow to empty, it's a sign that something has gotten clogged. It can be an inconvenient problem, as it makes it harder to wash dishes or bathe. Depending on the severity of the clog, you may be able to fix the problem yourself or call a plumber for help.

There are a few ways to clear a clogged drain, and most of them can be done without having to dismantle pipes. The most common solution is a plunger, but some stubborn clogs may need a more advanced approach.

Use a plunger to get the ball rolling on a drain that's blocked by hair, soap scum, toilet paper, etc. Just fill the sink with water and press down on the bell to push the air back around it, forcing the clog through. This method is a great quick fix, but it won't always work, and you should consider calling in a professional if you're not confident in your abilities.

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You can also use a wire drain snake to break up clogs in a drain line that's difficult to reach. These lengths of tightly wound wire are available at hardware stores and home centers. They're a little tricky to use, but once you know what you're doing they can be a lifesaver.

The first step is to find a drain trap that's easy to get into. Most of them have a clean-out plug on the side. Simply remove that plug and feed the cable directly down the pipe to break up any buildup.

If the clog is still a little too tough, try feeding the cable around a tight bend in the pipe. This will give the cable more clog-clearing power and get it deeper in the piping. Once you're inside the drain, reassemble the P-trap and run some water through it to make sure it's cleaned out completely.

Another approach is to rent a power auger, which is a tool that uses a wire cable to dig into the piping and break up or pull out whatever's clogging it. These are typically available at a plumbing supply store and come with enough cable to handle most household problems.

A power auger is a bit more expensive than the average sink plunger, but it's worth it for its clog-clearing power. Some models even have a foot pedal switch so you can leave your hands free to guide the cable.

After you've reassembled the drain, squirt it with a bit of vinegar or boiling water to rinse away any residue. If it's a very stubborn clog, you might need to repeat the process several times until the clog is broken up and the pipe is clear again.

You can also use a combination of baking soda and vinegar to unclog a drain, which creates a chemical reaction that will loosen any clogs that might be in the pipe. This is an alternative to using a chemical cleaner, which can be harmful.