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 Clogged Drain

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.

The Best Way to Plunge a Toilet

Are you dealing with a clogged toilet in Northridge, CA ? This plumbing problem is one that most people have to deal with at some point. Before calling a plumber for toilet unblocker services, watch this video to learn the best way to plunge a toilet.

Bell or cup style plungers are used to unclog sink and shower drains. Flange style plungers are designed for use on clogged toilets. Plumbers recommend blocking off other drains in the vicinity before you begin plunging, such as shower and sink drains. By preventing the air from escaping through these drains, you’ll gain more plunging power.

Causes of a Clogged Toilet

Poorly functioning toilets can be frustrating and messy. If you’re frequently dealing with a clogged toilet in Northridge, CA, there are several potential causes. How the toilet is used, its mechanics, and your drain line can each play a role in regular clogs.

A common cause of blocked toilets treated by plumbers is flushing the wrong materials. Flushed hair, floss, paper towels, plastic, and diapers can all cause your toilet to clog. In other cases, people try to flush more than a toilet is designed to handle. Older low flow toilets often clog when too much material is flushed at once.

Another cause of clogs seen by plumbers is a clogged drain line. When buildup or objects accumulate in the pipe, a clog can choke the water supply. If a clog affects the line to the septic or sewage system, it can prevent your toilet from flushing properly. Finally, make sure that your toilet is getting enough water. If the water supply line isn’t fully open, your toilet may not be filling correctly.

Clogged Toilet