A blocked drain can be a frustrating and unsanitary problem that can quickly escalate if not addressed promptly. It can also cause a significant amount of damage to your home or business if left unattended for too long. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for clearing a blocked drain, and with a bit of patience and the right tools, most people can unblock a drain on their own. In this blog post, we will discuss how to clear a blocked drain and why it’s better to engage a professional plumber like the team at Pinnacle Plumbing.
The most common causes of a blocked drain include grease, hair, soap scum, and foreign objects. To clear a blocked drain, you will need to identify what is causing the blockage and remove it. The following methods can be used to unblock a drain:
- Boiling Water: This is a simple and effective method for clearing a blocked drain. Boil a large pot of water and pour it down the drain. This method can help to dissolve grease and soap scum, which are common causes of blockages.
- Plunger: A plunger is a simple tool that can be used to unblock a drain. Fill the sink or basin with enough water to cover the plunger and then use the plunger to create suction and loosen the blockage. Repeat this process several times until the blockage has been cleared.
- Drain Snake: A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be used to remove blockages from drains. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it to break up the blockage. Be careful not to push the blockage further down the drain, as this can make the problem worse.
- Chemical Drain Cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can be purchased at most hardware stores. These products contain strong chemicals that can dissolve grease, hair, and other common causes of blockages. However, they can be harsh and damaging to your pipes, and they may not be effective in all cases.
While these methods can be effective in clearing a blocked drain, it’s important to remember that the cause of the blockage must be addressed to prevent future blockages from occurring. To do this, you may need to install a drain cover, which will prevent hair, soap scum, and other debris from entering the drain.
Why it’s Better to Engage a Professional Plumber
While it is possible to clear a blocked drain on your own, it’s always better to engage a professional plumber like the team at Pinnacle Plumbing. Plumbers have the experience and expertise to diagnose the root cause of the problem and provide a permanent solution. They have access to the latest tools and technology and can quickly and effectively unblock a drain.
In addition, engaging a professional plumber can save you time and money in the long run. Plumbers can quickly diagnose the problem, minimize damage to your pipes, and provide a long-lasting solution. They can also identify and repair any underlying issues that may be causing the blockage, such as cracks or leaks in your pipes.
In conclusion, clearing a blocked drain can be a frustrating and unsanitary problem, but with the right tools and methods, it can be done. However, it’s always better to call a professional plumber like the team at Pinnacle Plumbing, who can quickly and effectively diagnose the issue and deliver a solution.