How to Clear Any Clogged Drain in a House

When it comes to hiring a plumber, most of us are keen to try and solve any non-emergency plumbing issues on our own. As long as the issue is not severe, and we have the tools at home, the most common plumbing problems do not require a professional’s visit. One of these standard plumbing issues is a clogged drain. It is simple to clear any clogged drain around your home, as long as you have the right tools, resources, and knowledge.

The tools necessary for clearing a clogged drain in a toilet include a plunger, a cable auger (also known as a plumber’s snake), and a closet auger. A cable auger is a long, flexible steel cable fitted with a hand crank, and it can be as long as 100 feet. A closet auger is used for snaking out toilets, and while it is also fitted with a crank, it is encased in a rigid shaft and bent at the right angle to fit through every angle of a toilet trap. If you have a substantial clog, you can rent a larger electrical power auger from a home improvement store.

For unclogging sink clog, one of the best tools for the job is a plunger. Partially fill a sink with water, and start plunging; as you do, vigorously work it up and down before quickly pulling the plunger away from the opening. For those with a dual-sided sign, make sure that one side of the sink has a wet rag stuffed in one drain as you work on the other side of the sink. An auger can be used in the trap underneath if the plunger does not unclog the sink. 

If you are concerned about a clogged tub, it is not likely that you need anything more than the average plumber. To start, unscrew the screen the tub drain and use a bent wire for fishing out any hair, soap, or any built-up soap scum and debris. If your tub has a pop-up drain, you can raise the level in the open position and grab the stopper and pull it out to clean it of all hair, soap, and built-up debris. If you cannot unclog the drain by clearing it out this way, you will need to use the plunger.