5 Tools For Tackling Blocked Drains
Most people have to tackle blocked drains at some time in their lives. Having the right tools on hand can make this issue much easier to resolve. Here are five things you should keep close so you are always ready to deal with a blocked drain.
1. Plungers
A plunger is the tool that most people imagine when they think of methods for fixing blocked drains, but did you know that there are actually two different types of plungers? In addition to the well-known flat-head plunger, which is useful for unblocking sink and bathtub drains, you should also purchase a toilet plunger. A toilet plunger has a head that is shaped to fit over the opening in a toilet waste pipe, allowing you to create an airtight seal so you can effectively remove blockages from the toilet pipe.
2. Drain Auger
A drain auger, sometimes known as a drain snake, is a long piece of flexible wire that you can use to dislodge a blockage in a drain. This kind of tool, which is found in every plumber's toolkit, is extremely useful for removing hair that has washed down a shower drain and formed a clog.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Most people don't realise it, but they have the ingredients they need to make a powerful drain-unblocking solution close at hand in their kitchen cabinets. By mixing together baking soda and vinegar, you can set off a chemical reaction and produce a foaming solution that has the power to dissolve most organic materials that could be stuck in your pipes. Pour the mixture down the drain and wait a few minutes before rinsing with hot water to clear a slow-draining sink or bathtub.
4. Drain Cleaners
If baking soda and vinegar doesn't do the trick, take a trip to your local store. You will find a vast array of products designed to clean and unblock drains. Be sure to read the instructions on each product carefully, as many chemical drain cleaners are not suitable for use on certain types of materials, such as enamel bathtubs.
5. A Trusted Local Plumber
Not all drain blockages are solvable using the methods listed here. If the blockage exists deep inside your plumbing system, you will need to call a professional plumber out to deal with it. Always keep the contact details of a trusted local plumber close at hand so you know who to call.