Plumbing clogs are annoying, and they can cause costly damage to your home. To prevent clogged drains in the future, avoid putting grease and hair down your pipes. Also, use a drain strainer to catch any food or debris that may enter your sink or shower.
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A drain snake (also known as an auger) is a handy tool to help clear a clogged pipe. Professional plumbers utilize these tools to dismantle and free clogs, and you can find them at most home improvement stores.
Turn Off the Water
The first thing you should do when you’re having a plumbing issue is turn off the water in your home. It keeps your pipes from getting clogged and also helps prevent leaks that may occur later on down the line.
Next, you should inspect your home for the main water valve – typically located at the lowest level of your home near the street but can also be found inside the home. Once you’ve found it, test the valve to ensure it shuts off properly.
If it’s not shut off, try finding a way to close the valve. It will keep it from leaking and causing more flooding in your home. You can check drain cleaning services in sydney to assist you with your main water valve.
Use a Plunger
A plunger is one of the most reliable plumbing tools for unclogging a drain. It’s easy to use, and it can be used on a variety of drains.
Plungers are also ideal for clogged bathtubs, sinks and showers. These clogs typically come from food, grease and other materials that don’t break down easily.
To get the most out of a plunger, make sure it has a cup just a little bit larger than the drain you want to clear. It allows the plunger to fit securely around the drain.
Then, place the plunger over the drain and press down on it. It will create a tight seal and help the plunger create suction.
You can also smear petroleum jelly on the rim of the plunger’s flange or handle before plunging to increase its effectiveness. You should also ensure that the rim makes contact with the drain opening all the way around and that the plunger handle is pointed straight up.
If the clog still isn’t going away after a few attempts, it may be time to call a plumber. However, you should try your best to repair the clog yourself first.
You should also ensure you’re using the right plunger type for the job. It is especially true for a toilet, where you’ll need a flange plunger.
Use a Snake
To use a snake, start by inserting the end of the cable into the pipe and turning its handle. Keep your grip on the handle while guiding the snake down the drain until you feel resistance.
Then, rotate the handle until you reach the clog. The snake will then break up and dislodge sludge, hair, and other debris. If water still doesn’t flow through the drain, repeat the procedure.
If the clog is a blockage deep within the pipe, it may need more than pressure to dislodge. That’s when a plumber’s auger or another tool might be helpful.
One problem with using a snake is that it can sometimes become stuck in an impossible pipe twist. If so, try putting it in a different access point.
Use Chemicals
Using chemicals to clear plumbing clogs can be an effective way to eliminate these problems. However, it is essential to follow safety precautions when using these products.
It is also a good idea to avoid using chemical cleaners in areas that are not adequately ventilated or where they may be exposed to children and pets.
Many types of chemicals can be used to clear a clog. Some are more effective than others and must be applied in different ways to get the desired results.
For example, you can use sodium hydroxide to break up a clog. It is an excellent option if the clog is severe or there is a lot of buildup in your drain. It is best to apply it gradually, letting it sit for an hour or more before testing to see if the clog has cleared.
You can also use a bacterial enzyme cleaner to dislodge a clog. These will clear a clog more slowly than chemical cleaners but are less damaging to your pipes.
Call a Plumber
A plumbing clog is an unfortunate event that can cause headaches and stress for homeowners. However, there are some things you can do to repair and prevent them.
If you’ve tried plunging the drain and using a plunger, but the clog is still there, it’s a good sign that you have a more severe issue with your plumbing system. A plumber will be able to repair the clog and ensure that it doesn’t happen again.
