A clogged drain in the home can be such a problem. Here are some simple homeowner fixes to try before calling on a plumber. The fixes suggested do not resort to using chemicals. Those can be dangerous to yourself or even to your drain system.
n
Home drain systems should have vent pipes. These pipes can be clogged by debris or by birds nesting efforts. If all your drains are slow, suspect a vent block. Another reason for a slow system would be a septic tank problem, if you have one of those, or a problem in the pipes leading away from your home and connecting to a sewage system. If those things are the problem, you may need the help of a professional.
n
Sink, shower, or tub drain covers commonly become clogged with hair or with kitchen scraps. You should be able to clean those out yourself. You may need to remove the drain cover to get at it properly.
n
If clearing the strainer doesn’t work, you may be ready to try a plunger on the problem clog. For sinks, tubs, and showers, you want the flat-faced type of plunger, not the collared model that is needed for toilets. Try to get off to a slow start with your plunging efforts, then gradually increase to a more heroic effort.
n
Or you may need to get after the clog with a drain auger or snake. Models are available that have a crank handle and also some that are operated by connecting to a power drill. You will be able to find an appropriate auger at a good home supply store.
n
When attempting to open a plugged toilet, the plunger is the first thing to try. The toilet plunging will be the type with an extended collar. As is the case with the sink plunger, it is a good idea to start with rather gentle efforts, then pick up the pace if that doesn’t work.
n
Most toilet clogs are within the range of a toilet-type auger. These, unlike the sink auger, will have a protective covering meant to avoid damage to the porcelain of the toilet.
n
In the case that none of these efforts solve the problem, you’ll be glad to know that a qualified plumber will be able to get that clogged drain cleared up for you.