Clearing a Clogged Drain: Simple Solutions for Slow Drains
Picture this: water is suddenly flowing from beneath your cabinets, threatening to ruin your new kitchen floor. What do you do? The key to averting a crisis is knowing how to shut off the water to your home before the damage becomes costly. By identifying your main water valve and understanding how to operate it, you can be prepared for any plumbing emergency.
The Flexible Plastic Drain Cleaner
Next time you’re at the grocery or hardware store, pick up a flexible plastic drain cleaner—a handy tool specifically designed to clear clogged drains. Resembling a thin strip with small hooks along its length (think of a very slim Christmas tree), this tool is simple to use:
- Insert the Tool: Without removing pipes, push the plastic cleaner down the drain. For some drains, removing the stopper can provide better access.
- Pull Out the Junk: The hooks capture hair and gunk lodged inside the pipe. Be prepared for a mess—have a rag or paper towels handy, and wear rubber gloves to keep things sanitary.
- Flush the Drain: Once you’ve cleared the obstruction, run very hot water down the drain for several minutes to help rinse away any lingering debris.
A Store-Bought Drain Cleaning Gel
If manual tools aren’t your thing, you can opt for a chemical drain cleaning gel, widely available in grocery and hardware stores. These gels are formulated to dissolve the hair and grime that commonly cause drain blockages:
- Read the Instructions: Always follow the instructions on the product label to ensure safe and effective use.
- Pour into the Drain: Typically, you’ll pour the recommended amount of gel directly into the clogged drain.
- Let it Work: Allow the gel to sit for the specified time, as it breaks down the blockage inside the pipe.
- Flush with Hot Water: Finish by running very hot water through the drain for several minutes to clear away the dissolved debris and leave the pipe flowing smoothly.
