How to Clear Clogged Drains Without Calling a Plumber

 

 

In most cases clearing clogged drains can be accomplished without calling a plumber.  Try following the steps below.

 

1. CLEARING CLOGGED SINK DRAINS

 

*  Baking soda and vinegar

 The cause of clogged drains, in most cases, is an obstruction in the sink trap.  Try clearing it by pouring a quart of hot water in the drain followed by a half cup of baking soda.  After approximately 5 minutes, add one cup of vinegar and one cup of hot water.   Cover the drain opening and allow the solution to remain for 5 to 10 minutes, then pour in approximately one quart of boiling water.  Clogged drains in many cases can be cleared using this method. Check to see if this worked for you by running water from the tap. If the sink begins to fill, the next step is to remove the sink trap.

*  Removing the sink trap 

 

This is the next step in clearing clogged drains if you did not succeed with baking soda and vinegar. Place a bucket under the trap assembly to catch any water laying in the sink or spill from the trap when you remove it. Loosen the two joint nuts with channel locks or pipe wrench.  Continue to remove the joint nuts by hand until the trap is separated. Pour out the water into the bucket below and inspect the contents.  If there is not a large amount of debris, your problem is located further in the plumbing.  You will now have to use a snake to relieve the clog.

*  Clearing clogged drains using a snake

 

n most cases, a simple hand snake can be used effectively for clearing clogged drains. I recommend using a snake with a minimum length of 12 feet.  With the trap still disassembled, insert the end of the snake into the drain until it will no longer advance.  Now, twist the snake continuously while attempting to advance it further. When you feel the snake suddenly advancing, you have broken through the obstruction.  Advance the snake further to ensure that there is not another clog further down the drain. If the hand snake will not release the clog, you can try a small power snake.  Holding the equipment in one hand, use the other hand to guide the snake into the drain while rotating the cable at a slow speed. Continue feeding the snake into the drain until you break through the obstruction.