If the sink, bathtub or toilet is taking too long to drain, it’s time to call a plumber. Find a plumber in Melbourne who offers competitive rates and can clear stubborn clogs. Ask for referrals and get multiple estimates before making a choice. 

Many homeowners try to unclog their own drains with home remedies. Unfortunately, these methods often don’t work and may cause additional damage. 

Store-bought chemical drain cleaners 

If your sink is backed up or the toilet is overflowing, you want the problem fixed right away. So, your first instinct may be to run out and buy a bottle of drain cleaner. 

Chemical drain cleaners rely on chemicals to break up and dissolve blockages, such as hair and soap scum. However, they can also damage your pipes. 

Chemicals in these cleaners corrode or eat away at metal surfaces inside your pipes, leading to pitting and leaks. To avoid these problems, try using physical methods to unclog your drains, such as plunging and snaking. These techniques are also safer for your health and the environment. 

Plumbing snakes 

A plumbing snake, also called a drain auger, is a long metal cable with some kind of attachment, like a blade or corkscrew. The snake is stored in a drum and can be fed into the drain by cranking a handle. 

Before using the snake, clear the working area and put on some rubber gloves to protect yourself from dirty drain water. If you have a clogged kitchen, bathroom or laundry sink, prepare the pipes by either sending the spring down or removing the p trap (the curbed piping under the sink). 

You can also reduce the risk of clogs by putting screens and strainers in your drains to catch large food scraps. However, if the clog remains, call a plumber Kellyville and the Hills and North Shore residents can trust! 

Wire hangers 

A wire hanger works just like a snake but is a cheaper alternative. Unwrap the wire hanger but leave the hook shape, then snag and pull out whatever is clogging your drain. Dispose of it and flush the drain with hot water. 

Taking advantage of at-home tools to solve household issues is both fun and economically savvy. However, it’s best to consult a professional for recurring problems or serious blockages that can cause more expensive damage. This will ensure that your plumbing system is safe and working properly. Getting expert assistance can save you a lot of money in the long run. And it can help you avoid wasting time and energy trying to fix it yourself!

Boiling water 

Boiling water is a quick fix for some types of clogs, including those caused by food particles and soap scum. It also works well on grease clogs, as the hot water melts the oils that are blocking the drain. 

This is a great first line of defense before moving on to a heavier-duty drain cleaner. Just be careful not to overdo it with the boiling water, as some pipe materials can crack or deform under extreme temperatures. Pour the water slowly and steadily to avoid burns, and keep your face and hands away from the drain while doing so. Allow it to sit for several minutes before testing how freely water flows. 

Baking soda 

Baking soda is a cheap, eco-friendly alternative to chemical drain cleaners. It also has a wide range of household uses and doesn’t introduce harmful chemicals into the environment. Additionally, it’s safe for septic systems and won’t harm your pipes. 

Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain to loosen any gunk that’s stuck there. Then, dump in a cup of baking soda. It will react with the vinegar and create a fizzing action that can help to break up and dissolve clogs. 

Once the clog is gone, slowly pour a kettle or pot of hot water down the drain to flush away the baking soda and vinegar mixture and any remaining debris. 

Vinegar 

When baking soda and vinegar are combined, they form a chemical reaction that can dislodge even the most stubborn clogs. This combination can also help remove nasty odors from your drains. 

Pour one cup of baking soda down your drain, then follow it with a cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz, but don’t be alarmed. The fizzing is a sign that the ingredients are working to break down and dissolve the clog. 

After allowing the mixture to sit for an hour, plug your drain and flush it with boiling water. Repeat as necessary if your drain is still blocked. This natural, eco-friendly cleaning method is also a great way to prevent clogs from forming in the future.