Clogged Drain Repairs

There’s nothing more annoying than standing in a shower with water building  up to your ankles because of a clogged drain.

For some tenants or homeowners, the problem is near the surface. With a little determination and some basic tools, you just might be able to fix it yourself. Before contacting your local plumbing contractor, here’s some steps you can take to try and save yourself the invoice:

1. First things first, boil some water and pour it down the clogged drain. Continue doing this for about 5-10 minutes. For minor clogs like leftover food particles, sometimes this is all it takes. 
2. If that doesn’t work, try using a plunger. If you don’t have one, they cost less than $5 at your local hardware store. While you’re there, pick up a bottle of Draino just in case.
   1. For drains where it’s likely hair could fall in and accumulate, carefully try using a coat-hanger to scoop up accumulating hair. Avoid this on vanity fixtures to prevent damage.
3. If you’ve tried using your plunger and it still wont work, then there’s likely a buildup underneath your sink trap. This is slightly advanced and requires some finesse. If you feel uncomfortable opening it up, try using the Draino. Follow the instructions and remember to refrain from running water as you’re pouring it down the drain.
4. If there is still no result, then your sink blocked drain may be caused by material down beneath your sink trap. If you’re skeptical to open up the sink trap, you can try the Draino and make sure to follow the instructions carefully and if it does not work out, then you need to open up the sink trap to remove the blockage.
5. If the Draino doesn’t work, then you must remove the blockage from the sink/drain trap. Start by reducing the water in the sink and put a bucket underneath to collect the water. Then untie the trap and use a brush to clean the inside thoroughly. Once done, reinstall the trap and run hot water through it once more.

All of the above are great solutions if your particular clog is minor and doesn’t require a plumbing technician. If despite your efforts on all of the above the clog hasn’t been removed, you could have a bigger challenge on your hands. Give Coldstream Plumbing at 905-949-4400, we’ll fix that clog for you.