Having a clogged drain can be really frustrating. It’s something we all face from time to time, but knowing the signs and how to fix them can save you a lot of problems. Here’s what to look out for and what you can do about it.
Common signs of a clogged drain
Slow drainage
One of the first signs of a clogged drain is slow drainage. If you notice that water takes longer than usual to go down the sink or shower, it could be a sign that your drain is clogged. This happens because the buildup in the pipes is restricting the flow of water.
Gurgling sounds
If you hear strange gurgling noises when you use the sink or flush the toilet, it’s another sign of a clogged drain. These sounds occur when trapped air tries to escape through the water in the pipes.
Foul odours
A clogged drain can cause unpleasant smells to come from your sink or shower. This happens because the buildup in the pipes can trap food particles, hair, and other debris that start to decay and produce a bad smell.
Backups
If you notice that water is backing up in your sink, shower, or toilet, it’s a clear indication of a clogged drain. Water backing up is a serious sign that something is obstructing the flow of water in your pipes.
Overflowing
An overflowing sink or toilet is a big sign of a clogged drain. When the drain is completely blocked, water has nowhere to go but up and out of the sink or toilet.
How to fix a clogged drain
Sometimes, a simple solution like boiling water can help clear a clogged drain. Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to dissolve any grease or soap buildup. Do this slowly in stages to allow the water to work through the clog.
Baking soda and vinegar. This is a natural and effective way to clean a clogged drain. Start by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow it with half a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes, then flush it with hot water. This method helps break down buildup and clear minor clogs.
A plunger is a handy tool for clearing clogs in sinks, showers, and toilets. Make sure there’s enough water in the sink or bowl to cover the plunger’s cup. Place the plunger over the drain and push down firmly, then pull up quickly. Repeat this a few times to dislodge the clog.
A plumber’s snake, or drain auger, is a tool that can reach deeper into your pipes to clear stubborn clogs. Insert the snake into the drain and turn it to break up or pull out the clog. This tool can be found at most hardware stores or rented from a tool rental shop.
For clogs under the sink, you can try removing the trap (the U-shaped pipe). Place a bucket underneath to catch any water, then unscrew the trap. Clean out any debris and replace the trap. Be sure to tighten everything back in place to avoid leaks.
While chemical drain cleaners can be effective, they should be used with caution. These products can be harsh on your pipes and harmful to your health if not used properly. Follow the instructions carefully and only use them as a last resort.
Preventing clogged drains
To avoid future clogs, there are a few simple habits you can adopt:
Avoid putting grease down the drain. Grease can solidify in your pipes and cause clogs. Instead, pour grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
Use drain covers which can catch hair and food particles before they enter your pipes. This helps reduce the risk of clogs.
Clean your drains regularly. Drain clean can help prevent buildup. Use natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar to keep your drains in good condition.
Be mindful of what you flush. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, cotton balls, and paper towels can cause clogs.
By paying attention to these signs and taking steps to prevent clogs, you can keep your drains in good shape and avoid plumbing issues. If you need help with a clogged drain, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to provide fast, same-day plumbing services in Illawarra and surrounding areas.
Get help from Illawarra Plumber & Drainer
If you’ve tried these methods and your drain is still clogged, it’s time to call a professional. Persistent clogs may indicate a more serious problem that requires expert attention. We have tools, such as drain camera to handle tough clogs and inspect your plumbing system for underlying issues.
Illawarra Plumbing & Drainer offers plumbing services in Illawarra and surrounding areas, and we can help you with any clogged drain issues you might have.