Diy: How to Clear out Out Blocked Drains

Cleaning Strainers and Stoppers 

Many clogs collect around the strainer or stopper in the sink or bathtub. To unclog the drain, all you may need to do is remove the strainer and clean it. If there is a strainer over the clogged drain, you should take out any screws keeping the strainer in position and then pry the strainer out with the tip of a normal screwdriver. When the strainer is loose, take out and rinse away anything that has accumulated around the strainer. Stoppers have to be cleaned on a frequent basis since hair tends to twist around their base. First remove the sink stopper. A few stoppers are removed by turning them with your fingers. Others require that you remove a pivot rod that is connected to the opener. This rod should be located below the base of the sink. If you need to use pliers to remove the stopper, make sure to pad them so you won't chip the chrome finish. Once the stopper is removed, wash it and wipe out the base of the drain opening. 



Utilizing the Plunger 

One of the most reliable instruments for unclogging drains is the plunger. It can usually clear the obstruction if it's not too far inside the main drain. Block the overflow holes, other drains in adjacent sinks, or any other openings by stuffing wet rags into the holes. If water is not currently present in the basin, run two to three inches of water over the drain hole. The water will help to force the blockage out of the way and lets you know when you are successful in pushing the obstruction out. Apply a solid coating of petroleum jelly to the rim of the plunger. The petroleum jelly will help to create a tighter seal, thereby producing better suction. Push the plunger handle down powerfully several times. After plunging for a minute or two, stop to test whether water will drain from the sink. Try plunging again if the drain is still sluggish. When clear, run hot water to get rid of away any remaining particles from the clog. 



Cleaning the Trap 

If a plunger doesn't clear the clog, you'll have to clean the trap under the sink. Be sure you have a bucket in place to catch waste water. Check to see if there is a clean-out stopper in the trap; it will be a square or hexagonal plug in the base of the bend. If so, take off the plug and push a straightened coat hanger or bottle brush around the bends of the trap to remove debris. If the trap does not have a clean-out plug, take out the trap by loosening two couplings that hold the trap in place. If you have chrome pipe fittings, you'll need to pad the water pump pliers to protect the finish. Penetrating oil may help to weaken a stubborn trap joint. Hold the trap over the bucket and insert a straightened coat hanger or bottle brush into the trap. Push the hanger or bottle brush around the curves and force out debris. Rinse the trap with hot, soapy water. Before reconnecting, look at the trap for wear or corrosion. The metal or plastic material may begin to thin and start to leak. If you notice wear, replace the trap. When you reassemble the trap after cleanup, you many need to reseal the threads. Use pipe joint compound or Teflon tape.



Cameron Park Plumbers Service

3529 Kimberly Rd

Cameron Park, Ca 95682

(530) 350-6504
http://cameronparkplumbers.com