Every homeowner understands the frustration that comes with dealing with a clogged drain. Somehow, blocked drains come up at the worst time—in the middle of taking a hot shower or doing dishes or when you're in a hurry. Before frustration kicks in, here are five easy drain cleaning hacks you can try at home.
Boiling Water
Hot water can do wonders, especially for a blocked drain. You can easily access boiling water using a kettle, microwave, or stove. Fill up your kettle or pot with water, and let it boil. Once it boils, pour the water into the clogged drain. Pour the water slowly and in small portions to give it time to work. It's an easy and free hack that yields great results.
Sodium Hydroxide
If you don't have sodium hydroxide, commonly referred to as caustic soda, you can find it in any hardware. Get a bucket and pour in four gallons of cold water. Add a few cups of caustic soda, and use a wooden spoon to stir until the mixture heats up and begins fizzing.
Pour the fizzing mixture into the blocked drain and leave it for a few minutes. To finish off, pour boiling water into the drain. Since sodium hydroxide is toxic, you need to be extra careful when using it. Experts recommend putting on eye protection and wearing rubber gloves. Once you're finished, store the sodium hydroxide in a safe place away from pets and children.
Baking Soda and Salt
Sometimes, the items in your kitchen could be the key to unclogging your drain. Measure a cup of baking soda and a cup of salt and mix them together. Then, pour it down your drain, and give it a few minutes before pouring in boiling water. The mixture will result in a chemical reaction that will dissolve dirt in the blocked drain.
Use a Wet or Dry Vacuum
If you have a vacuum suited for both wet and dry surfaces, you're in luck. These vacuums can be helpful in clearing stubborn drains. Switch on the vacuum and activate the wet mode. Tightly seal the drain and the area around the vent. A powerful vacuum can unclog the drain and draw the blocking materials inside the vacuum bag.
Hire a Professional
If all the tips mentioned above haven't been successful on your clogged drain, it's time to seek professional plumbing services. They have the expertise and tools which can clear your drain easily and effectively.
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