Tips for Clearing a Clogged Drain

Drain clogs are a problem that most homeowners will face at some point. Fortunately, there’s a good chance that you won’t need a plumber for your clogged drain near Northridge, CA. With the right tools and techniques, there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to get your pipes flowing again without the need for professional plumbing services.

Clearing a Clogged Sink

In many cases, you’ll be able to clear your clogged sink drain with only a bell or cup plunger. First, partially fill your sink with water and, using your plunger, vigorously move it up and down over the drain. After doing this a few times, quickly pull the plunger from the drain opening. For sinks with two drains, be sure to block the second one using a damp cloth. This measure can also be used on overflow holes if you’re working on a bathroom sink. Doing this will block air flow and allow to put more pressure on the clog.

Clearing a Clogged Tub

Blocked bathtubs typically build up over a period of weeks or longer. You may notice that the water drains from your tub a little more slowly after each use. This problem usually begins once a bit of buildup occurs and gradually collects debris. If you have a blocked tub drain, take a bent wire or drain cleaning tool and insert it into the pipe to fish out any scum and hair that you can reach. If this method fails, use a damp cloth to cover the holes of the overfill plate and try using a plunger to dislodge the clog.

Clearing a Clogged Toilet

Toilet blockages typically occur within the curved trap fixture and in some cases, using a plunger alone will provide enough pressure to dislodge a clog. If the plunger method fails, try using a toilet auger. Place the end of the auger into the bowl with the tip pointing upward. Next, push down on the handle and crank the entire length of the cable up through the drain. Finally, crank backward and pull up to retract the cable.