How to Fix Blocked Drains in an Emergency
The most common problem faced by many households is blocked drains. Some clogged or blocked drain problems are easily resolved while some need professional help.
Clogged and blocked drains are emergencies when it happens during odd hours. How to fix blocked drains in times of emergencies include:
Blockages caused by diapers and wipes
Diapers and wipes are not things that should be flushed down the toilet. The bulky material of wipes and diapers can quickly cause a blockage. Human waste and plain toilet paper are the things that a toilet is capable of flushing away. Quilted toilet paper has been seen to cause blockages, especially when used in excess.
Using an auger or plunger are the effective methods of clearing the blockage caused by excess toilet paper, diapers, and wipes flushed down the toilet.
Blockages caused by cat litter
Flushing down cat litter can cause irreparable damage to the drainage systems. Clumps leading to bigger clogs happen when moisture is absorbed by the sand, silica, and clay materials of cat litter.
Combining a toilet snake and plunger can successfully clear the drain blockage. However, the best method is never to flush or wash down kitty litter down the home’s drain or toilet.
Blockages caused by tree roots
Tree roots have a way of invading even the tiniest crack of your pipes. Water flow is obstructed when the tree roots start to grow. Regularly checking out your drains should be done especially when your property has plants and trees nearby.
Blockages caused by cotton swabs and feminine products
Tampons, cotton swabs, and other feminine products should never be flushed down the toilet. These products tend to expand once the fluid is absorbed. Cotton swabs and other feminine products do not dissolve or break down unlike toilet paper when flushed down the toilet.
Using an auger or plunger can often clear the blockage. However, professional help is needed when the method doesn’t work.
Blockages caused by hair
The most common contributor to drain blockage and clogs is hair. It is especially true in the bathroom, laundry, bathtub, and shower drains. Hair can quickly combine with substances such as oil and soap, knot up, and attach to the parts of the drain.
Often, using a plunger can clear up the blockage. Combining vinegar and baking soda and pouring it down the clogged drain can work wonders. A plumber’s snake can help clear up stubborn clogs.
Blockages caused by dirt
Washing down dirt down the drain is a common practice. However, clogs are caused by dirt buildup that can quickly combine with soap and hair. A cleaning auger, or a drain cleaner made of vinegar and baking soda, or a plunger are some of the most effective methods to clear up the blockage from the drain.
Blockages caused by tiny and solid objects
Toys are tiny solid objects that children often accidentally flush down the toilet. An unprotected shower or sink drain is where toys can quickly go down.
A toilet auger or plunger can clear up the blockage. However, firmly-lodged objects have to be removed by a professional plumber.
Prevention still holds the key to avoid experiencing common drain clogs and emergency block drains. However, we are ready to help you clear up drain clogs and blockages 24/7.