1. The Hot Water Way
If its just soap or fat you
could try to unblock it with boiling hot water, but be careful not to burn
yourself or melt the sink seal. Using natural enzymes is also a good place to begin,
so in the following order try putting 1/2 cup salt, 1/2 cup bi-carb, 1 cup
of vinegar and 1 cup hot water. This method is perfectly harmless for you,
the sink, pipes and the environment and can be repeated as often as needed.
However, it will have limited affect on severe drain blockages. Alternatively,
your local health food stores or chemist may stock the bacteria based enzyme
cleaners, which are also quite successful at unblocking drains, and they often
smell quite pleasant too.
2. The Plunger Way
You can't go past the good old
fashion plunger to force the blocked drain from clearing. It's the force of the
push that forces air through the drainpipe to clear the blockage. Before
plunging, cover the overflow with a semi damp cloth to ensure a drain seal and
force the air out through the drain blockage. If you have a double kitchen sink
make sure you seal the second drain to ensure good pressure. Try this quite a
few times before you throw your hands in the air. Many home DIY handyman report
this to be one of the most successful methods to unblock a blocked drain.
3. The Snake Way
You can hire a Drain Auger
(AKA Plumber's Snake or Electric Eel) from most rental places, however be
aware that these require a bit of skill and can be quite dangerous if not used in
the right way. These will unblock almost anything, including tree roots. Ensure
you wear protective clothing and practice good hygiene after coming in contact
with drain fluids. The snake does have the potential to
scratch ceramic surfaces of drain plumbing fixtures.
4. The Chemical Way
Many of us have been convinced
that you need a full arsenal of chemicals to clear a blocked drain. Drain-O,
Hydrochloric Acid or Caustic Soda are commonly used and are available at most
hardware stores over the counter. You generally poor the substance down the
affected drain, leave for 20-30 minutes (check the instructions), and follow
with cold water afterwards. Do not put hot water down immediately after the
chemicals as it may spray back up in your face and you will sustain an injury. Follow
instructions carefully, and always wear gloves and a breathing mask for safety.
5. No Dangerous Back
A piece of C4 explosive down
the blocked drain is guaranteed to remove all blockages, but with some obvious
dangerous side effects. You will require some pipe repair.
6. The Quick & Easy Way
Contact a Plumber such as local plumber brisbane
