DIY Tips: Unclogging a Sink or Bathroom Drain

Having problems unclogging a sink or bathroom drain? At Comfort Systems we have a plumbing division staffed with over 100 years of combined service. We know that a clogged drain can be a real nuisance for a busy family. Luckily, most drains can be cleared with a little elbow grease and products you probably have in your pantry right now. Listed below are a few Do-It-Yourself tips for unclogging a stubborn drain.

Kitchen Sink

Flip that Switch – Do you have a garbage disposal? Believe it or not, many clogs occur when people overfill their disposals or don’t activate them enough. Each time you wash dishes, be mindful of what you put down the sink and be sure to flip that switch. This activates the disposal to keep it free of debris.

Grab Your Trusty Plunger – Keep a plunger under your sink because it should be your first tool of choice when it comes to taming a clog. For best results, create a seal over the drain and pump the plunger 5-10 times. If you have a double sink, place a wet rag in the other side to increase the pressure.

Behold the Power of Baking Soda and Vinegar – Why run to the store and buy a commercial drain cleaner when you probably have natural ingredients on hand. Using a funnel, pour 3/4 cup baking soda into the drain, followed by 1/2 cup white vinegar. Note, the chemical reaction will cause bubbling and fizzing. Plug the sink for at least 30 minutes. Flush with hot or boiling water.

Bath Tub

Bathtub clogs are generally caused by a build-up of hair and residue. To free the clog you can try the plunger trick and even the baking soda and vinegar mixture, but you might need some more hardware. Quick, run to your bedroom closet. Yes, really.

Make Your Own Snake – If you don’t have a special tool called a plumber’s snake, and really, how many people do, you can improvise with a wire hanger. Straighten out the hanger leaving a curved loop at one end. Carefully slide the hanger down the drain until you meet resistance, then use the loop to pull debris to the surface. Repeat this procedure until the hanger comes back clean. Finish by flushing the drain with hot water.

When It’s Time for a Pro

If you follow these directions and your sink remains clogged, it’s time to call a professional. Comfort Systems will send out an experienced technician to fix the problem. If you need more in-depth plumbing services like remodeling, sewer replacement, or water treatment, let us know. We keep your plumbing flowing COMFORT-ably.