Tips for Fixing Blocked Drains
by Rick Hill on Sep 21, 2016
Having a slow-moving or completely blocked drain can be a real problem. It can make showering difficult and using the toilet impossible.
If the drain is blocked so much that no water can get through, it can cause water to pool in the affected area and possibly overflow onto the floor. This can cause water damage in your home that can be difficult to clean up and repair. This is why it is a good idea to take care of blocked drains at the first sign of a problem.
If you notice your sink is draining sluggishly, you should take care of the problem before it gets worse. After all, the blockage is not going anywhere on its own. It will just continue to worsen and eventually become completely blocked.
If this happens, you will not be able to use the affected sink, shower, or toilet buildup. This can be a huge inconvenience, especially if you only have one bathroom in your home.
Hair is another culprit for causing blocked drains, especially in shower drains. Knowing how to take care of the problem yourself is important and can save you time and money.
There are Many Causes for Blocked Drains
Often, grease and other particles are deposited on the pipes. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages. Hair is another common reason for blocked drains, especially in the shower or bathtub. If you have a septic system, you may even get a blocked drain from tree roots growing into the pipe and causing problems.
These days to conserve more water and be more environmentally friendly, toilets are designed to flush using less water and pressure. Usually, this is not a problem, but every once in awhile, it just is not enough, and the drain can become clogged.
When you are aware of the possible causes of blocked drains in, you can be prepared to take care of the problem. A useful tool for clearing blocked drains is a plunger. A plunger works by creating a high amount of suction that dislodges the blockage and allows it to move down the pipe and be flushed away.
To create an airtight seal that can create the most amount of suction, apply grease to the rim of your plunger before placing it over the drain. It is also helpful to fill the sink with enough water to cover the bottom part of the plunger. Pump the plunger a few times. Make sure you push hard on the plunger and completely depress the cup.
Remove the plunger and test the drain by running water down it. If the water drains quickly, your drain is clear. If it is still draining sluggishly, try pouring some boiling water down the drain.
This can help to break up grease, and other buildups. You may also try using a drain snake. This tool is a long, flexible metal rod. When you put it down your drain, it can bend with the pipes and dislodge any blockages. You usually have to rotate the drain snake for it to be effective
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
91492 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
72542 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
70986 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
51118 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
29944 Views
Latest Articles
Before You Sign: How Home Inspections Identify Hidden Hazards in Your Future Home
Buying a home is exciting, but hidden dangers can turn that dream into a nightmare if not addressed early on. Beyond what is visible during a...
on Oct 18, 2024
The Appeal and Longevity of Natural Oil Finishes for Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors exude warmth, character, and timeless appeal in any home. To preserve and enhance these qualities, choosing the right finish is...
on May 17, 2024
Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners
Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...
on Jan 25, 2024
Real Estate Development in Asian Cities
In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...
on Jan 25, 2024
Shower Envy: Elevating Your Bathroom with a Stunning Walk-In Shower
Are you tired of the same old routine in your bathroom? It might be time to consider a change, and one way to elevate your bathroom to a new level...
on Jan 22, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates
Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 263
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 200
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Choosing The Right Breed of Dog for Home Security Purposes
Nowadays, dogs are not only associated with the zone of man’s best friend but you can take help of your furry little friend in order to protect...
Paint a Straight Line for a Professional Finish
When you are painting, knowing how to paint so that the finish is neat and even can mean the difference between adding value and beauty to your...
Heating Your Home with a Wood Stove
Heating a house with wood, partly or totally, is environmentally and economically beneficial. Wood is a renewable fuel source and if harvested...
Take a Load off with a Beltless Tool System
Whether a traditional tool belt or a belt free tool belt system is the right choice for you depends on your needs and preferences. The wide...
Reducing DIY Injuries: Woodworking Safety Tips You Need to Follow
Woodworking is a great hobby that many people across the country enjoy. Building something from scratch with your own two hands is an...