What Should You Do With The Blocked Drains And Sinks?

Have you ever faced plumbing problems such as blocked drains and sinks? It can be a real headache trying to figure out what to do with them, especially if you don’t have the experience or tools necessary to fix the problem.

Fortunately, there are many solutions available that can help you tackle this problem quickly, effectively and at an affordable cost. In this article, we will explore some of these solutions so that you can get your blocked drains or sinks fixed in no time!

What are blocked drains and sinks?

Clogged drains and sinks are common plumbing problems that occur when there is an obstruction in the pipes that prevents water and waste from flowing freely. The blockage can be caused by a variety of materials, including coffee grounds, food scraps, fat and oils, and other debris that gets washed down the sink. 

When these materials accumulate in the pipes, they can create a drain blockage that causes water to back up and can eventually cause the sink to become completely blocked. Caustic cleaners or chemicals can also be a cause of blocked drains and sinks. When a drain is blocked, it may be slow to drain, gurgle, emit an unpleasant odour or not drain at all. Blocked drains and sinks can be a nuisance and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious plumbing issues.

What are some solutions for blocked drains and sinks?

Here are some DIY solutions for blocked drains and sinks:

1. Baking soda and vinegar: Mix 1/3 cup of baking soda with 1/3 cup of vinegar, pour it down the drain, and cover the drain with a plug. The chemical reaction will create a foaming action that can dissolve blockages.
2. Plunger: Place a plunger over the drain and pump it up and down vigorously. This creates a suction force that can dislodge blockages.
3. Coat hanger: Straighten out a wire coat hanger and bend one end to create a hook. Use the hook end to remove any visible blockages in the drain.
4. Boiling water: Boil a pot of water and pour it down the drain in stages. This can help dissolve any greasy blockages.
5. Drain snake: To clear blockages in the drain, a plumber’s snake should be used on a manual basis.
6. Salt and baking soda: Pour salt and baking soda down the drain. Let it sit for a few hours and then flush it with hot water. This can help dissolve blockages caused by grease and oils.
7. Coca-Cola: Pour a can of Coca-Cola down the drain and let it sit for a few hours. The carbonation and acidity can help dissolve blockages.
8. Enzyme drain cleaner: Use an enzyme drain cleaner to break down organic blockages. These cleaners are environmentally friendly and safe for pipes.

Note: These DIY solutions may not be effective for all types of blockages or may only be temporary solutions. If the blockage persists, it is recommended to seek professional help.

What can you do if your blocked drains and sinks are not responding to treatments?

If your blocked drains and sinks are not responding to DIY treatments or other methods, here are some options to consider:

Call a plumber: A plumber has the expertise and equipment to diagnose and fix more complex blockages. They can also perform drain opening and video inspection of the pipes to determine the cause of the blockage.

Hydro jetting: Hydro jetting is a process that uses high-pressure water to clear blockages and clean the pipes. It is effective for removing blockages caused by tree roots and other hard materials.

Pipe relining: If the blockage is caused by a damaged or collapsed pipe, pipe relining can be used to repair the pipe and prevent future blockages. This is a more permanent solution than simply clearing the blockage.

Replacement: If the pipe is severely damaged or collapsed, replacement may be necessary. This can be a costly option but is necessary in some cases.

Avoid using chemical drain cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can be harmful to pipes and the environment. It is best to avoid using them and opt for other methods instead.

Avoid pouring fat and oils down the drain: Fat and oils can solidify in the pipes and cause blockages. Proper garbage disposal should be used to avoid blockages happening.

Note: It is important to seek professional help if the blockage is severe or recurring, as it may indicate a larger issue with the plumbing system.

Where can you seek professional help?

If you need professional help with your blocked sink and drains, you can consider the following options:

1. Plumbing service companies: Many companies specialize in plumbing services and can provide a variety of services, including diagnosing and fixing blockages. You can search online or in the phone book for plumbing service companies in your area.
   
2. Local hardware stores: Some hardware stores offer plumbing services, including clearing blockages. You can inquire with the store to see if they offer this service.

In conclusion, there are a variety of ways to unblock drains and sinks, including using a drain cleaner, chemical drain cleaners, caustic cleaner, baking soda and vinegar, plumber’s snake, kitchen sink garbage disposal, coat hanger, pipe relining or tree roots. If the blockage persists after trying other solutions, it is recommended to seek professional help from plumbing service companies or local hardware stores. Putting off your plumbing repairs can have consequences, so it is important to address the issue as soon as possible.

You can contact us for more information about blocked drains and sinks. We offer services such as backflow prevention, shower repairs, toilet repairs, leaking or burst pipes, blocked drains, and more.