Do you have a clogged drain in your home? Try these fixes before resorting to calling a professional.
One: Are you sure the drain is the problem?
Home drainage systems can have problems do to blockages in the vent pipes. Sometimes birds build nests in pipes or vent hoods, blocking the flow of air. That can cause drains to flow slowly. Or there may be a problem in the septic system, like a full tank or a clogged drain field. You may need a qualified contractor to help with that.
Two: If it is the drain, what then?
Check the drain cover. Hair or other matter may cause the problem. Remove the material and see if that is it. A plunger may be what you need. The flat-ended sink plunger is the one to use. If that isn’t the solution, the p-trap is the next place to look. Commonly found under the sink, the U-shaped p-trap is installed to prevent gases from coming back into your home from the drain or septic system. You should be able to remove it and clear a clog there.
Three: Is there trouble beyond the trap?
After you’ve gone this far, you might as well try a drain auger. The auger, or snake, can be found in most home supply departments. It is inserted into the drain and turned to clear a block.
Four: What if the toilet is blocked?
Most toilet clogs are within the toilet drainage turns. You can try the toilet plunger. That is the one that has an extended collar, not the flat-surfaced sink plunger. If the plunger can dislodge the clog, the toilet auger is the next tool to try. There is a separate type of auger, too. The one for toilets has a cover or some system to keep from scratching the porcelain of the toilet.
Most home clogs are withing reach of a handy Most home clogs are withing reach of a handy do it yourself homeowner. But if the situation gets beyond your reach, a professional plumbing contractor can help you with your clogged drain.