A blocked drain is one of the few plumbing problems that homeowners might actually be able to handle on their own but even these can be too difficult to do it yourself and identifying the issue isn’t always easy either. Before you start putting real money into your plumbing, however, try pouring a few other things in there first.
A Bucket of Boiling Water
Well, perhaps not an actual bucket, but the right amount of boiling water can dramatically improve drain quality and prevent you from having to use chemicals. The process can be repeated over and over again until you see improvements. While hot water is completely harmless to you and your drain pipes, you should, of course, be cautious so as not to burn yourself.
Boiling water is typically effective for mildly blocked drains in Melbourne, such as those with grease or food build-up, but you may not see awesome results if this is an issue that has been building up for a while or if the blockage is due to substances that don’t naturally break down with boiling water.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar is incredibly valuable not only as a breaker-downer but as a natural alternative to chemicals as well. Baking soda and vinegar are often used in conjunction with the boiling water, either by mixing the three (equal parts water and vinegar, half as much baking soda) or by pouring one after the other.
With this method, you have some flexibility as well as the confidence that what you’re doing is actually having an effect. If you choose to pour them separately, begin with the baking soda. Simply pour some baking soda down the drain and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Follow it with some vinegar, again allowing it to sit, then blast it all down with some nice hot boiling water.
Put a Plunger to it
The nature of a plunger, after all, is to unclog things and the plunger’s power can be beneficial for use on a bath drain and even a sink. While the air pressure can definitely push the blockage through the pipes, the success of this method will greatly depend on the nature of the blockage itself.
Other Household Items
Unblocking a drain can be pretty unpleasant but if you don’t mind getting a little down and dirty, some household items can be extremely useful in breaking up or scooping out the blockage. Two of the most common are wire hangers and metal forks (yes, forks), though you can essentially use anything long and skinny enough for blockages relatively close to the surface.
You Can Also Buy Commercial Products
There are plenty of products available for homeowners and if the blockage warrants the use of chemicals, you can opt for this route, though bleach is sometimes effective and you may already have this. Other products include store-bought drain snakes or similar tools that break up the blockage.
Drain Maintenance and Care
Most importantly, be conscious of what you are pouring down your drains. Avoid dumping grease, coffee grounds, or anything that can get caught and lead to blockage down the sink. Additionally, by simply pouring vinegar or hot water down the drain here and there, you can potentially avoid or postpone blockages altogether.
