Indoor plumbing dates back farther than you might think. In fact, the first types of indoor plumbing date back to around 2500 B.C. Throughout history, there have been many types of plumbing improvements. However, many people still deal with the problems that come with having a clogged drain. In this post, you’ll learn five helpful ways to potentially remove a clog.
- Using a Clothes Hanger
Sometimes, simple methods for removing clogs are the best. Therefore, you might want to try using a clothes hanger for the purpose of removing clogs. You’ll only need to untwist the hanger until the hook is straightened out. After this happens, guide the hanger into your drain. If you feel the hanger catch on something, twist it and pull this item back up. - Consider Trying a Wet Vacuum
Many people own wet dry vacuums. These devices are great for keeping your house clean. In addition, the wet setting on this device can work well for dislodging and removing pesky clogs. The next time a clog occurs in your home, try using this device. - Mixing Vinegar and Baking Soda
While you were in school, you might have completed a certain type of science project. This project involves combining baking soda and vinegar to create a chemical reaction. If you’re dealing with a drain clog, this mixture could solve your clog problem. For best results, boil a pan of water and slowly pour it down your drain. Next, you’ll want to pour about a cup of baking soda into your drain. After letting this mixture sit for about 15 minutes, you can add your vinegar. By doing this, the baking soda and vinegar react together. This combination fizzes while working to eat away at materials that are clogging your drain. - Purchase a Snaking Device
If a coat hanger isn’t getting rid of your clog, you might consider purchasing a snake device. This item is available at most home improvement stores. This item usually is a long straight piece of plastic with grooves on each side. However, you’ll want to avoid using excessive force with plastic snaking devices. If this happens, you could find yourself dealing with broken pieces of plastic stuck in your drain. - Find the Nearest Plunger
Not all clogs happen to sinks or bathtubs. Research shows that toilets make up for 25 to 30% of water use in a home. At some point in your life, you’ll probably have to deal with a clogged toilet. Fortunately, you’ll find that a plunger works well for taking care of most clogs. To use a plunger, you’ll want to place this item over the opening in your toilet. After this, push and pull your plunger to remove the clog. Plungers also work well for dislodging clogs in bathtubs.
In closing, there are several potential ways to dislodge a drain clog. Many materials cause drains to clog including hair, fat, and oil. In fact, research shows that grease, fat, and oil buildups cause almost half of the 36,000 sewer overflows that occur each year throughout the United States. If the previously mentioned methods didn’t work for you, consider contacting plumbing services. In turn, professionals can perform plumbing repairs that will help solve any problems you’re having.