How do you clear blocked drains?

Unblocking drains can seem an arduous, frustrating task.

At Pure Plumbing Pros, we’re experts in diagnosing and treating blocked drains and household issues aren’t an exception. This guide will delve into the various types of natural and professional remedies used to nullify this pesky problem a lot of us often face.

Blocked drains: home remedies

We humans are naturally inclined to try sorting out general household problems by ourselves. Although we don’t recommend you attempt a DIY repair, we understand your willingness to try and fix the issue on your own. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of common home remedies that have proven effective in unblocking drains.

A popular form of attack is the use of chemical drain cleaners, such as those found in supermarket aisles and in hardware stores. It is not recommended that you use these harsh concoctions as a way to combat a blocked drain, for they can be potentially damaging in many ways. Ceramic toilet bowl surfaces and piping systems can be damaged, and the cleaning chemicals can also prove a health and environmental hazard.

There are many natural alternatives to chemical drain cleaners, which we will cover below:

Safety note - Always wear rubber gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection when carrying out any of these tasks to protect your skin and eyes, and work in a well-ventilated area (open windows and doors, and turn the exhaust fan on if possible).

Baking soda and vinegar

This method uses the reaction between the baking soda and vinegar to loosen blockages.

• Carefully pour a litre of (nearly) boiling water down the affected drain
• Place half a cup of baking soda in the drain and wait 5 minutes
• Pour one cup of plain vinegar and one cup of (nearly) boiling water down the drain
• Rest the plug over the drain if possible, and leave for 10 minutes
• Wash the drain through with another litre of (nearly) boiling water to assist in the dislodgement of any remaining debris

Plunger

Small blockages causing the drain to slow can be moved with a firm plunge. Remember to be cautious and wear protective gear if possible. Often, the plunger will bring up what is blocking the drain. It definitely won’t be a pretty sight! You have been warned!

• Fill the sink, bath, or shower base with about 10 cm of water
• Cover the drain hole with the plunger ensuring there is water in the cup of the plunger
• Plunge firmly for about half a minute
• Pour hot (nearly boiling) water down the drain after you have cleared the blockage, this can help to remove anything still stuck on the pipe.

Detergent and hot water

Run-of-the-mill dishwashing detergent, coupled with hot water can prove effective in clearing a partially blocked drain. This process may require repetition in order for the drain to run clearly as possible.

• Pour a teaspoon of your standard dishwashing detergent in the drain
• Pour a litre or two of (nearly) boiling water down the drain
• Repeat as needed.

Clearing blocked drains professionally

Blocked drains can appear just about anywhere. Removing the blockage effectively means finding the problem, dislodging and removing the clog, and making sure the area of focus is perfectly clear. It is highly advised that you hire a plumber if you have a drain blockage; here is a general insight to the process the team at Pure Plumbing Professionals take in clearing drain blockages:

• The initial step is to work out where in the drain that the blockage is located. This will dictate what method your plumber uses to fix the issue. Your plumber may begin with a closet auger or plunger if they suspect the clog is close to the drain entrance.

Alternatively, they may use a specially designed CCTV drain camera to accurately locate the problem. This camera can also be used to record any other trouble spots along with your drainage system; the footage can be kept by the homeowner or business for future reference.

• The second step is to effectively remove the blockage. Our team uses a high-pressure water jetter to break up and move even the most stubborn drain clog.

Pure Plumbing Professionals use state-of-the-art drain cleaning equipment such as high-pressure water jetters and sewer drain cameras. Get in touch today to talk to a fully-licensed plumber on (02) 9191 7374.