Slow moving drains can be a pain and could potentially lead to more serious problems such as burst pipes or flooding. In a time when everyone is increasingly concerned about how much money they are saving, it is common for people to avoid calling a plumber until a bit of a problem transforms into a full-scale emergency. If your drain is running more slowly than normal, you may not need to call a plumber right away, but it is probably not a good idea to ignore it, either.
Follow our easy steps to help clear your drains of grease, gunk and debris.
Equipment
The best thing about this quick-fix home drain unblocker is that you are likely to have everything you need at home already. If not, a quick dash to the shop will help. You will need:
- A kettle full of boiling water
- Table salt
- Baking soda
- A cup of vinegar
Method
Although expensive drain unblockers can be effective, there are cheaper and easier ways of unblocking your drain. While some advice sites may recommend that you simply pour a jug of boiling water down the drain to dissolve solidified fats and dislodge other debris, this method is far more effective. Start by pouring half a cup of salt in the drain, followed by the same volume of baking soda and a cup of vinegar. Leave this to stand for at least twenty minutes before pouring a jug of boiling water down the drain. Wait another five minutes. If your drain is running a little faster, but not as fast as normal, repeat the above process; bigger blockages may need a little more intervention.
When to call a plumber
It can be tough to know when to call a plumber for seemingly minor home maintenance jobs, and when you can do it yourself. If you are not confident doing any kind of home maintenance, repair or DIY, it is always a good idea to call a professional; tackling it yourself could be a false economy. If more than one drain is running slowly, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. It is worth calling a plumber to diagnose the cause and advise you of the best course of action.
Another time to call a plumber is if your drains are actually backing up or smelling; this could have serious health implications as well as being unpleasant and inconvenient. If this is the case, make sure that you call your plumber immediately and tell them that it is urgent.
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