Best Ways to Fix a Clogged Drain Pipe

We’re gonna talk about fixing a clogged drain pipe here, and in any conversation about that prevention must be mentioned. Clogs are preventable. Before we move to fixes, let’s highlight some great ways to prevent a clogged drain pipe before it happens:

• Install a lint catcher on your washing machine hose.
• Collect grease in a can, don’t dump it down drains.
• Never rinse cement, grout or joint compound down drains.
• Catch hair and other debris with a screen before it runs down drains.
• Remove and clean drain stoppers periodically.
• Collect and compost food waste instead of sending it through the garbage disposal.
• Don’t treat the toilet as a waste basket.

Once you’ve got a clogged drain pipe, you have a few options for getting it clear:

Start with the Plunger

Every home should have a plunger in it- ideally a plunger in every bathroom at least. You can use plungers on sinks, showers, and other drains, not just toilets. It’s best if you approach plunging with a plan.

Plunging 101:

Start with enough water that the entire bell of the plunger is covered when you begin. If the water is shallow, add more until the pluger’s bell is submerged. Don’t fill the plunger with water. Start with it full of air.

The opening of the plunger is designed to fit into the drain or passage, so fit it into your drain. If that’s not possible, fit it over the drain opening.

Forcefully push and pull on the handle with quick, concentrated thrusts for about 20 seconds. Make sure not to lift the plunger out of the drain thereby breaking the seal. Repeat a few times as needed.

When water starts draining again, run hot water for a bit to flush things along.

Use a Wet/Dry Vac

Some wet/dry shop vacs even have attachments especially for sucking out clogs, like the Drain Hero. If you have a vacuum like this available to you, it can solve your clogged drain pipe problem. Be sure to follow the directions for using your shop vac and any attachment, to prevent harm to them or your plumbing.

Try a Wire Hanger

It’s not fancy, but it can work. Use wire cutters to open the hanger up into a mostly straight piece of wire, and use pliers to turn one end into a very small hook. It’s also a great idea to bend the other end into a loop handle for you so you can maneuver it well. Put the hooked end down the drain and go fishing for clogs! You may pull up some pretty disgusting stuff multiple times. When you’ve gotten out everything you can, flush the drain with lots of hot water.

Try an Enzymatic Drain Cleaner

Not all the things labeled “drain cleaner” are Enzymatic Drain cleaners. These work because they contain enzymes and bacteria that digest organic matter. Clogged drain pipes are generally full of mostly or all organic matter.

Stay away from harsh chemicals that can damage pipes, no quick fix is worth the possible damage.

If you’ve tried these methods to fix your clogged drain pipe, or you’ve just exhausted yourself with the plunger, give a licenced plumber a call. A professional can ensure the job is handled successfully and expediently.