5 Do It Yourself Tips to Unclogging a Drain

An untimely clog can be an unfortunate disaster. You may not have time to call a professional plumber in Orlando if an important guest is on the way or you are coping with a hectic schedule. In your sink or your shower, no one likes the pool of stagnant water that collects around a slow drain, and a stopped toilet will quickly disrupt a busy household. Luckily, most clogs are less difficult to fix than they seem, and with typical everyday items and minimal technical skills you can unclog a drain in no time at all. Here are a few quick tips to opening a blocked pipe.

DIY Drain Cleaner Orlando

Many homeowners are reluctant to use chemical drain cleaners on their Orlando plumbing for fear of damage to plastic pipes and risk of inhalation or skin irritation. Fortunately, equally potent results can be achieved using basic household ingredients. Start with a pot of boiling water down the drain. Then add a half a cup of baking soda followed by two cups vinegar and hot water.  Cover, and in the next few minutes the resulting chemical reaction and pressure build will quickly break away blockage and effectively dislodge clogs that can now be rinsed away with another pot of boiling water. Similar recipes like this and formulas for homemade “toilet bombs” are easily found online, including recommendations with dish detergent or salt or other common household items. Of course, even chemical drain cleaners can yield results with minimal cost and effort. Most clogs are formed from the continual build up of hair and dirt that will easily be broken apart and washed away with the right cleaner. 

DIY Drain Snake Orlando

A drain snake is a long coil designed to remove and retrieve blockage found deep in your pipes. These are easy to use, inexpensive, and found at most hardware stores. Every plumber in Orlando owns one of these, as well as most knowledgeable homeowners. However, even if you do not keep one handy, a makeshift one can be used in its place. Bend a wire coat hanger in much the same fashion to quickly dig out a clog when you are in a bind. Wear gloves; the debris you can pull back up can sometimes be an unpleasant surprise.

DIY Plumber Orlando

Beneath your sink is a U-shaped pipe where most clogs are commonly formed. Fortunately, this blockage is simple to remedy. You can spare yourself the step of hiring an Orlando plumber if you are willing to a little handiwork yourself. Place a bucket underneath to catch what spills out, and then unscrew and remove the U-shaped pipe. Use this opportunity to thoroughly clean out this piece of pipe where you will more than likely find the clog. This piece is as easy to put back as it is to remove, and often takes only a minute to inspect. Be sure to tightly screw the pieces back on to avoid leaks.

PIY, or Plunge It Yourself Orlando

Do not be afraid to fix things with just a good old fashioned plunger. In most cases, the air pressure alone is more than enough to fix the most stubborn and unexpected clogs. If you truly wish to avoid the work out of an Orlando plumber, try loosening the clog first with hot water or one of the home recipes mentioned above. Many hardware stores sell mini plungers that deliver powerful suction with minimal effort. 

Suck It Up…Literally

A wet/dry shop vac will act as a powerfully effective plunger if you really want serious results. Be certain that you are using the right type of vacuum, though. Many different types are available, but you want to be certain that you pick one that is best suited for the job. 

If a foul odor seems to be emanating from your sinks, there may be trouble with the septic tank. Routine septic checks are recommended at least once every two to three years, and will help avoid problems with a nauseating aroma and faulty plumbing. Being mindful of your drains can always help with avoiding clogs in the first place. Any trusted Orlando plumber can refer what items are safe for the garbage disposal or toilet. Use a drain cover to avoid pouring damaging foods like coffee grounds or potato skins down the sink, anything that tends to build up and get backed up in pipes. If your plumbing in Orlando is still a continual problem, with clogs or bad odors, you may need to seek help from a professional.