Home Plumbing Hacks: DIY Drain Unclogging
We know that plumbing issues can be a real headache, especially in the middle of the night or on weekends when plumbing services are usually closed. But what if we told you that you could solve most plumbing problems yourself with just a few simple hacks? That’s right, you don’t need to be an expert in plumbing to fix most of the common issues you may encounter around your house. In this article, we’ll share some home plumbing hacks that will help you save time and money. So, let’s dive in!
DIY: Clogged Sink Drain Cleaning
The first common problem that homeowners face is a clogged sink drain. Almost everyone has experienced this issue, and it’s usually caused by debris, hair, and soap buildup. But no worries, you can easily solve it without calling a plumber.
Drain Cleaning Hacks:
If you’re experiencing a clogged sink drain, don’t panic! It’s a common problem that can be easily fixed with a little DIY approach. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to unclog your sink drain like a pro:
Option 1
1. Gather the necessary materials: rubber gloves, a plunger, a wire hanger or drain snake, a bucket, and baking soda and vinegar (optional).
2. Put on your rubber gloves to protect your hands from any dirty water or gunk.
3. If you have standing water in the sink, use a bucket or bowl to scoop it out. Remove any visible debris, such as hair or food particles.
4. Using a plunger, create a seal over the drain and plunge several times, exerting a strong downward force. This will help to dislodge the clog.
5. If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a wire hanger or drain snake to reach deeper in the drain and pull out any possible hair or debris. Be careful not to scratch the sink’s surface.
Option 2
Another method to unclog the sink is by using baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes before flushing the sink with hot water.
If all else fails, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
Remember to always practice caution and safety measures when dealing with a clogged sink drain. By following these simple steps, you can quickly and cost-effectively unclog your sink without the need for professional help.
DIY: Fixing A Slow Draining Bathtub or Shower
Fixing a slow draining bathtub is a fairly common issue that many homeowners experience. Luckily, fixing this problem can be done by anyone with basic plumbing knowledge and a few tools on hand. Follow these step-by-step instructions to DIY the process of fixing a slow draining bathtub:
Step 1: Remove the Drain Stopper
The first step is to remove the drain stopper from the bathtub. Most drain stoppers can be removed by simply unscrewing them or pulling them up and out of the drain. Make sure to set the stopper aside in a safe place so that you don’t lose it.
Step 2: Clear Out Any Debris
Once the stopper is removed, you may be able to see some debris that is causing the drainage issue. Use a pair of long, thin pliers or a wire hanger to clear out any debris that may be trapped in the drain.
Step 3: Use a Plunger
If clearing out the debris doesn’t fix the issue, try using a plunger to dislodge any blockages that may be causing the slow draining. Make sure the plunger creates a seal around the drain and use firm, quick plunges to create pressure within the pipes.
Related Article: Choosing The Correct Plunger (Sink Plunger Vs. Toilet Plunger)
Step 4: Use a Drain Snake
If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can reach deep down into the pipes to remove any blockages. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it while pushing it further down into the pipes. When you reach the blockage, twist the snake to break up the debris and then pull it out.
Step 5: Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner
If the previous steps don’t solve the issue, try using a chemical drain cleaner. Make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle, as these chemicals can be dangerous if not used properly. Pour the drain cleaner down the drain and let it sit for the amount of time recommended on the bottle.
Step 6: Call a Professional
If none of these DIY steps solve the slow draining issue, it may be time to call a professional plumber. They will have the proper tools and expertise to locate and fix any more serious blockages that may be causing the problem.
DIY: Fixing A Clogged Toilet
Fixing a clogged toilet can be a messy and unpleasant job, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a quick and easy process. To help you get your toilet flushing smoothly again, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to DIY a clogged toilet fix.
Step 1: Assess the situation
Before you start trying to fix a clogged toilet, it’s important to assess the severity of the problem. If the toilet is only partially clogged, you may be able to clear it with a plunger. If the clog is more severe, you may need to use a plumbing snake or other tool to dislodge the blockage.
Step 2: Gather the necessary tools
For a simple clog, all you need is a plunger. For a more severe clog, you may need a plumbing snake, a bucket of warm water, rubber gloves, and safety goggles.
Step 3: Stop the water flow
Before attempting any DIY toilet fix, it’s important to turn off the water supply to your toilet. This can usually be done by turning a valve at the base of the toilet. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult your toilet’s manual or call a plumber.
Step 4: Plunge the toilet
If your toilet is only partially clogged, a plunger may be all you need to solve the problem. To use a plunger, place it over the drain in the toilet bowl and pump it up and down vigorously. Keep doing this until the water starts to drain away.
Step 5: Clear the clog with a plumbing snake
If the plunger doesn’t work, you may need to use a plumbing snake to dislodge the clog. A plumbing snake is a long, flexible tool that can reach deep into the plumbing pipes to clear blockages. Insert the snake into the toilet bowl, working it back and forth until you feel the clog break up.
Step 6: Flush the toilet
Once you’ve cleared the clog, turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet several times to ensure the blockage has been fully cleared.
Step 7: Clean up
After you’ve fixed the clog, you’ll need to clean up any mess left behind. Use a disinfectant cleaner and paper towels to clean the toilet bowl and surrounding area.
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In conclusion, home plumbing DIY hacks can be lifesavers for homeowners who want to save money and time. But, it’s always best to prevent plumbing issues in the first place by being mindful of what goes down your drains. Nick from Choice Plumbing Orlando strongly advise homeowners “Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper, avoid pouring grease down your sink, and use a hair catcher in your shower and bathtub”. Remember, prevention is better than cure!