When you experience a clogged drain, it’s important to fix the situation immediately before any further damage can be done that contributes to more costly problems. Fortunately, this kind of issue can be repaired on your own.
The following are ways you can unclog the drain yourself:
- Use a plunger. When it comes to unblocking clogs, the most reliable way to accomplish the job is with a plunger. Fill the sink a little less than a quarter of the way full with water. If you have a double sink, you must block the other drain with a towel or cloth. Place the plunger over the drain, then proceed to pump up and down in a rapid motion until the water begins to drain.
- Vinegar and baking soda. This is known as another universal way to unclog drains. You must first empty the water from the sink by using a bucket. Then, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain and use a wooden spoon or spatula in order to pack it down. Next, pour a cup of vinegar down the sink and immediately place the stopper in. The mixture is supposed to foam throughout the pipes. After five minutes, run warm water down the drain. If the clog is still evident, then pour four cups of boiling water down the drain.
- Use a cable auger. As a disclaimer, this method shouldn’t be attempted by an amateur. Place a bucket underneath the drain, then detach the j-joint or trap which connects the sink to a horizontal pipe. Once you remove the horizontal pipe from the wall, slide down the cable auger the stub pipe. In a slow motion, push the cable down by spinning the crank clockwise. When you reach the clog, spin counter clockwise to retrieve the cable. This should unclog your drain.
If all else fails, it is time to call an expert professional to fix the problem for you. If you continue to try to unclog the drain yourself after trying all these methods, it can lead to more substantial damage.