It’s every homeowner’s worst nightmare. Despite all precautions
to keep the drain free of debris, drains do become clogged, causing
backups and other problems.
It’s every homeowner’s worst nightmare. Despite all precautions to keep the drain free of debris, drains do become clogged, causing backups and other problems.
Here are a couple simple tips to try on the sink drain before forking over lots of money to a plumber.
Instead of using Draino or other chemicals to flush out the pipes, try using a less intrusive method first.
Homeimprovementmag.com suggests putting a cup of baking soda and then a cup of vinegar down the drain. Wash it out 15 minutes later with hot water.
Chemicals can be a quick fix but should be used carefully because they can eat away at the pipes, especially in an older house.
The trap (the U-shaped pipe under the sink) can be removed and cleaned, according to a tutorial on dummies.com. The tutorial advises placing a bucket under the pipe and then loosening the slip nuts with a wrench. Once the pipe is removed, the blockage can be scraped out.
A sink plunger can also be used. Dummies.com advises removing the stopper and then pouring boiling water down the drain. With the water still in the sink, you can plunge the drain.
Another option for unclogging a drain is a snake. These devices are usually inexpensive and can reach distances of up to 25 feet, according to a tutorial at thisoldhouse.com.
If all else fails, though, it may be time to call in a professional.
Do you have a home improvement question or a tip to share that has worked for you? If so, we’d love to hear it. The home improvement tip runs on Wednesdays. Send your questions and comments to nm*****@**********rs.com or call (408) 842-6400 and ask for Nathan Mixter.
