Dealing with Leaking Pipes and Other Problems

If you have a sink, a tub or simply use water in your house, you've definitely encountered blocked drains. A clogged drain is among the most common plumbing problems that occur when you least expect them, which is why you need to be prepared for it. You certainly know the early signs of a blocked drain — slower-than-expected water movement in your sink, water pooling around your feet while showering and smelly odors among others. Since you face having a useless bathroom or busted pipes due to clogging, you need to unclog your drainage immediately. Below are some easy DIY un-clogging tips you may use for your drainage.

1. Boiling Water

In most instances, blocked drains are usually due to hardened grease, hair foods and other fatty substances. By using boiling water, you're able to liquefy these substances and unblock your drainage. However, the method is applicable to only plastic and metal pipes. You should be advised that hot water may loosen your joints if PVC pipes were used for your house. Therefore, check your piping system before using water. The methods are suitable for bathtub drainage and bathroom and kitchen sinks.

2. The Wire Coat Hanger

Regular wire hangers are used to unblock drains that are clogged with solid materials. Simply, straighten out your normal wire hanger using a set of pliers and create a small hook on one end. Push the other end inside the drain and start angling. You'll notice various solids coming out, including hairs and strings. While fishing for dirt inside the drainage, always try pulling the dirt out and not pushing them further inside. 

3. Use of Local Chemicals and Detergents

Several locally available chemicals and detergents may be used to unclog your drainage. The most commonly used one is a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. You should pour the baking soda into the drainage opening, followed by vinegar. Quickly close the drainage for some few minutes to allow the reaction to take place. The reaction produces oxygen, which washes the pipes, clearing any blockages. Always pour hot water after finishing off the procedure.

You may also use readily available caustic soda, which is available in your local hardware. Considering its toxic nature, make sure to wear gloves and closely read the instructions.  Finally, dish detergents may be used to unclog your toilet bowls. Just pour some of it inside your toilet bowl, wait for a few minutes and pour boiled water in. After some time, use a plunger to clear the blockage.

Other than using the plunger, the above three methods should help you unclog your drainage. However, you should hire an emergency plumber if none of them seems to work. Never assume that the blockage may unclog itself.