Routine Plumbing Problems And How To Fix Them

Just because you have a clog in your drain does not automatically mean that you have to call a plumber

. The key to taking care of this problem yourself is to get to the problem early. Instead of ignoring a sluggish drain, take care of the problem before it becomes critical and becomes completely clogged.

Trap Check

Most drains get clogged in specific areas, and one of the most common areas is the trap, which is the area under the sink that is curved like the letter S. In a toilet the internal water passages frequently become clogged, and sometimes the main drainage pipe that leads out of the house becomes clogged. This type of clog can frequently be cleared without needing to call a professional. To see if you can clear your clog, start with the most obvious problem and go from there. First try simply pouring boiling water down the drain and see if that resolves the problem.

Chemical Fix

If the boiling water does not work, then you may want to try using chemicals or maybe even a mechanical method. If you are going to try mechanically clearing the clog, try this first before using any chemicals. If the mechanical solution does not work, then you can try using chemicals. Chemicals that clear drains are pretty potent chemicals, and you should never mix them with each other. In is important to always follow the label.

Plunger Fix

If you do not want to use chemicals, then you may want to try using a suction cup plunger. If you are working on a sink clog, first remove the strainer basket from the drain. Pour about two inches of boiling water into the sink. Put the plunger over the drain and give it a few good pumps, and see if that does the trick.

Mechanical Fix

To mechanically clear a clog, you can use an auger or a snake. You will need a pair of non-slip gloves before using the snake. First put the end of the snake into the drain carefully. You do not want to damage plumbing or fixtures. While gently pushing, turn the handle of the snake which will send it through the plumbing. Then add water to the sink to help wash out the clog as well as to lubricate the snake. When the handle becomes difficult to turn, simply pull the snake out and clean it. Repeat this process as many times as necessary until the drain is clear.

Removing the Drain

The final way that you may want to clear out a clog is to remove the trap or open the clean out plug. Put a large bucket under the pipe to catch the water that will spill out of the pipe when the trap is opened or the plug is removed. After the pipe is opened up, simply use a screwdriver to clear the clog. You can use a snake or auger here as well. Once the pipe is cleared, simply replace the trap, plug or auger. Once everything is reassembled complete the drain clearing process by running hot water down the drain.

by: Jasmine Albriton

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