A blocked drain can be a major nuisance to the residents of any home. Not only can they result in nasty foul odors, but they can also lead to serious structural problems if not checked as soon as possible. While it’s always advisable to enlist the help of a professional plumber when dealing with a sizeable clog, some incidents can certainly be managed at home without using expensive tools if you use the right techniques. Whether you are an experienced DIY drain unblocker or a novice, here are some useful tips for clearing blocked drains in New Forest.
1. Use a Plunger:
A plunger is a common household item that maintains a good reputation in clearing drains. To use a plunger, first cover up the overflow with a damp cloth, then fill the sink with enough water to cover the bottom of the plunger. Position your plunger over the plughole and move it up and down swiftly for about 20 seconds to manually generate some pressure that will unblock the drain. Always ensure to cover the overflow to prevent the water you are plunging from escaping.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar:
These two ingredients are well known for their unclogging abilities. Pour half a cup of baking soda down your blocked drain, and follow this up with half a cup of vinegar. A chemical reaction is expected to occur between the vinegar and baking soda, breaking down whatever is causing the blockage. Wash this down with hot water after about 15-20 minutes.
3. Cleaning the U-Bend:
The majority of all blockages generally happen in the u-bend, to clean it, place a bucket underneath blocked drains newforest the u-bend and carefully unscrew the fittings holding it in place. Once you remove it, you’ll be able to clearly see – and remove – the obstruction causing the blockage. This job can prove messier than most, so ensure you’re prepared with gloves and something to dispose of the blockage.
4. Use A Plumber’s Snake:
A plumber’s snake (also known as a drain snake) is a flexible auger used to dislodge blockages. To use a plumber’s snake, insert the tool into the drain and twist it to hook onto the source of the blockage so you can pull it back out. Keep in mind that it might get dirty, so put a bucket underneath to catch any debris.
5. Use of Chemical Drain Cleaners:
While these products are efficient, they should be your last resort due to their potential harm to the environment, the plumber who might be enlisted, and your drain pipes especially if they are old. If you choose to use chemical cleaners, be sure to use them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Those are among the basic ways you can clear a clog from your drain while in New Forest, however, it’s always advisable to seek the help of a professional in cases where you can’t clear the blockage or where frequent blockages occur. This is because repeated blockages can be a sign of serious underlying issues such as tree roots disrupting your sewage line or broken drain pipes that require the help of a professional.
Moreover, it’s important to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of your drains getting blocked often. Avoid pouring oil or grease down the drain, ensure to dispose of leftover food particles into the bin rather than the sink and consider installing drain guards to catch the materials that might clog your drain.
Remember, while the tips provided may prove useful, it’s always best to enlist a professional to ensure that your drains are unblocked in an environmentally friendly, safe and thorough way. However, with these tips in mind, you should find clearing blocked drains in New Forest a manageable task.