Blocking of drains is a common household problem that many of us face quite frequently. At times, it unblock drain portsmouth becomes a severe problem and causes considerable discomfort by impeding the normal flow of water. Not to worry, though. This article, supported by the expertise from the city of Portsmouth, will help you understand how you can unblock the drains fast and efficiently using a few simple techniques.
As opposed to calling your local plumber immediately after facing a blockage, there are several ways to unblock your drains before resorting to professional assistance. These methods are simple, quick, and can save you a significant amount of money!
Firstly, you should be able to quickly identify when a drain is blocked. Some signs include a bad smell, slow drainage, or in worst-case scenarios, a full back-up of water.
Once you have identified that your drain is blocked, you can try a straightforward method using boiling water. Boiling water works effectively on simple and small blockages created by soap or grease. This technique should be mostly used on metal pipes as the boiling water can warp PVC pipes. Remember to pour the water in stages, a few seconds apart, to give the hot water time to work.
If boiling water does not unblock the drain, you can use a plunger, a cost-effective and efficient tool every household should have. Make sure when using the plunger, it completely covers the drain opening and apply forceful plunges to clear the blockage.
If the above methods are unsuccessful, try a plumber’s snake or a hand auger. This tool, available in most hardware stores, extends a coiled wire down the pipe to dislodge the blockage.
Alternatively, you can concoct a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, which is another effective way to unclog drains. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain followed by half a cup of vinegar. Wait 15-20 minutes and then rinse with hot water. The chemical reaction between vinegar and baking soda can break down fatty acids into soap and glycerine, allowing the clog to wash down the drain.
A wet and dry vacuum can also be a handy tool to unblock drains. It can create a powerful suction that can efficiently dislodge the blockage and draw the debris up and out.
Always remember, don’t force the blockage down further while trying to unblock the drain. It will simply compact the blockage, making it harder to remove.
If you are unable to unblock the drain after trying the above methods, it could be a severe blockage issue. At such times, it is advisable to seek help from a professional.
While all these methods are effective ways to unblock a drain, prevention is importantly the best policy to keep drains free-flowing. Avoid throwing waste materials like coffee grounds, grease, and hairs into the sink as they are the most common causes of blockages.
The key to a swift and effective solution to unblocking drains lies in understanding the severity of the blockage and education about the different methods of blockage removal. With these tips from Portsmouth experts, you can tackle such issues without panicking or spending heavily on professional plumbers.