3 Ways to Fix a Clogged Drain [infographic]

Here at Carolina Plumbing & Repair, we know that few things are as frustrating or unpleasant to deal with as a clogged drain. While there are definitely times when you’ll need to call in the pros to deal with this issue, in many cases you can fix the problem yourself if you catch it early enough. In this article, we’ll go over three methods you can use to unclog your drain before you call for backup.

1.   Use a Zipper- One simple way to unclog a clogged drain is to use a plumbing zipper. If you’re not familiar with this tool, it’s essentially a strip of plastic with diagonal notches along each side. Its design allows it to slip past clogs when inserted into the drain, then catch any hairs and pull them up on the way out. You can find a plumbing zipper at your local hardware store for just a few dollars, or you can improvise one by bending a wire hanger.

2.   Flush with Boiling Water- Another thing you can try to clear a clogged drain is pouring in boiling water. The heat will help melt away enough scum to loosen the clumps, allowing them to flush the rest of the way down the drain. We recommend using a kettle for this process if you have one, but a pot on the stove works just as well.

3.   Treat with Vinegar and Baking Soda- A third method you can use to loosen the clog and allow it to flush away is to create a chemical reaction with vinegar and baking soda. Combine equal parts of each ingredient (about ⅓ of a cup each should do it) in a measuring cup. This mixture will immediately start to fizz, and you should pour it down your drain right away so that the fizz can go to work on the clog. Let it sit for at least an hour, or overnight if possible, then flush with hot water.

If you try these methods on your clogged drain but don’t see any results, you can always call our team for professional assistance.