The first sign that you may have a clog building in a drain is when the water drains slower than normal. This is the best time to do something about it as it is easier to remove a partial clog than a whole one. In addition, partial clogs allow wastewater to drain, even if it’s slowly. A complete clog won’t allow any water past. Instead, it will fill the pipe and eventually come back up the drain and into your sink or appliance.
As waste products can be hazardous that’s not a desirable outcome. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to shift a clog before it becomes an issue. But, remember, if in doubt, call a reputable plumber Sydney and they will take care of it for you.
The Plunger
This is the most sensible tool to try first. Simply select a plunger that covers the drain hole completely. Then start pumping the plunger up and down without lifting it off the drain. It will move the air inside the pipes, forcing it through the clog.
The clog may move with it or because of the imbalance in air pressure you’re creating. You’ll usually hear a gurgling sound as the clog shifts.
Boiling Water
Clogs are often caused when the wrong thing is put down the drain. This can be soap as the small particles bond with hair and form clogs. Or, it can be grease which goes down as a liquid, cools, and then solidifies.
The good thing about these types of clogs is that boiling water will dissolve soap and re-liquidize the grease, allowing it to move along the pipes.
All you have to do is boil the kettle and pour it down the drain. However, it is worth noting that boiling water can damage the inside of your pipes? That’s why it’s best to boil the kettle and then wait 30 seconds before pouring it down the drains.
Baking Soda & Vinegar
This is an old-fashioned approach but it works. These two compounds react with each other to create mini-explosions. All you have to do is add half a cup of baking powder to your drain and leave it in the drain for ten minutes. This will allow it to settle on the clog. You can then add a cup of vinegar and leave the two substances to react. They should blow a hole in the clog, allowing the wastewater through. The pressure of the water usually ensures any remaining traces of a clog are gone.
Empty The Trap
All drains have a trap in them. This holds water to prevent the aromas from the sewers from getting into your house. However, because the trap bends to hold the water, it is also a prime place for debris to collect and cause a clog.
All you have to do is place a bucket under the trap and unscrew it. This will allow the wastewater out and you can manually remove the clog before putting the pipe back into position.
