logged drains can be a recurring problem. Toilets, sinks, washbasins, showers, and bathtubs can easily become blocked. These blockages most often form from organic matter, small objects, soap scum, household cleaning product residue, and limescale deposits. When these small elements accumulate, they form larger clumps that eventually obstruct the drain. How can you clear them?
Methods for unclogging drains
Before contacting a plumber in your city to unclog a drain , there are many methods you can try using everyday items from your home, such as household products or readily available materials. Three complementary methods exist for unclogging drains: manual drain cleaning, biological drain cleaning, and chemical drain cleaning.
Unblocking a drain mechanically
For sinks and washbasins, as well as some showers and bathtubs, the presence of a removable trap can make unclogging drain pipes easier. The first thing to do if the drain you need to unclog has a trap is to remove it to eliminate any residue that might be preventing water from draining. To do this, simply unscrew the pipe under the sink or washbasin, placing a basin or bucket under the trap. By cleaning the trap and removing any buildup inside, you can easily unclog your drains. If this method isn’t enough, you can then use the following tools:
- The plunger : This is the most classic and one of the most effective methods for medium-sized clogs located near the drain opening. To clear a drain pipe with a plunger, make sure to place it completely in the standing water. The edges of the plunger should cover the entire drain opening. Once the plunger is properly positioned, the up-and-down motion should dislodge the clog. If the drain has other openings, temporarily block them so that the suction created by the up-and-down motion is focused on the blocked drain.
- The drain auger : The drain auger is the preferred tool of professional plumbers for clearing blocked pipes. It’s a simple metal rod with a handle at one end and a pointed tip at the other. To unclog a drain with a plumbing auger , insert it into the pipe until it encounters the blockage. Once the tool is blocked by the cause of the obstruction, turn the handle or crank to break up the clog and facilitate its removal.
- The wire coat hanger : A coat hanger can be used to clear a blocked drain in a similar way to a drain snake. By keeping the hook of the hanger and forming a handle at the other end, it will be possible to break up the blockage or pull it towards you.
- The water jet : With this technique, you can use either a garden hose or a high-pressure jet. To clear a blocked drain, simply push the water jet into the pipe until it reaches the clog. Once the water is turned on, the clog should break up under the pressure, allowing wastewater to drain more easily.
Unclogging drains biologically
For several years now, biological drain cleaners have been available commercially and from plumbing professionals. These products are the most effective for naturally clearing blocked drains . They contain no chemicals, only microorganisms and enzymes capable of breaking down organic matter such as food scraps, soap residue, hair, and fecal matter. The combined action of these elements allows for the rapid removal of blockages. Biological drain cleaners do not damage drain pipes and are safe for the environment. They are used as follows:
- 1. Shake the product well before using it to activate the microorganisms and homogenize the solution.
- 2. Remove as much standing water as possible and pour lukewarm water into the blocked drain (maximum 40°C).
- 3. Pour 250 mL of the biological drain cleaner into the blocked drain.
- 4. Leave the product to act for at least 12 hours.
- 5. Rinse the unclogged drain with warm water.
