How to Fix a Clogged Drain Pipe – Easy Steps to Try

Three Steps To Unclog a Drain Yourself 

If you want to try fixing a clogged drain pipe on your own, follow these steps first. 

1. Scoop Out Any Visible Blockages  

Sometimes, you can unclog a drainpipe simply by removing visible buildup. This is often the case for kitchen sinks, where food scraps can accumulate and restrict water flow. If you can remove hair tangled around the drain, clogged showers will also benefit from this approach. 

Wear gloves and turn off the power to your garbage disposal if you have one. Needle nose pliers are helpful for grabbing hair in drains but don’t pull at the exposed debris too aggressively, or you might damage the drain.   

If you can’t see any apparent blockages, it’s best to call a plumber. Debris lodged further in the system will be nearly impossible to remove by hand without the right tools. It’s also a good idea to call a plumber if your shower drain covering won’t come off, as you likely won’t remove all of the clogged hair without getting underneath this component.  

2. Give Baking Soda and Vinegar a Try 

Many DIYers swear by the power of baking soda and vinegar.  However, this might not answer the question,  “How to fix a clogged drainpipe?” This home remedy works for minor clogs and is a great way to deodorize sinks, but using it excessively may worsen blockages. 

To use this method, add half a cup of baking soda to the drain. Then, pour in an equal amount of vinegar. These ingredients neutralize each other, but the chemical reaction creates a fizzing effect that may dislodge minor clogs. 

Flush out the system with hot water after letting the concoction sit for 15 minutes.  

3. Mix Dish Soap and Hot Water To Unclog Drainpipes 

If grease buildup is your problem, hot water, and dish soap might do the trick. As with the baking soda method, this solution will not work on larger clogs.  

To attempt this method, squirt dish soap down the affected drain and chase it with hot water. The soap and heat should work together to melt and break down any lodged grease. Keep the water flowing for a few minutes to flush out the system.  

Importantly, you should not use boiling water because, in large amounts, it can damage your pipes.  

DIY Pipe Unclogging Methods Glendale Heights, IL, Homeowners Should Avoid  

While you’re desperately searching for how to fix a clogged drainpipe, keep in mind that some methods will do more harm than good. Residents of Glendale Heights, IL, should avoid these approaches: 

Drain Snakes 

A drain snake, or plumber’s auger, is an effective solution when properly used. However, most homeowners are not trained to use these tools correctly, and improper use will damage your pipes and worsen the clog. 

Leave this solution to the professionals. They will use specialized snakes and careful techniques designed to protect your pipes. 

Unclogging Chemicals 

Chemical clog-busting solutions are readily available at most hardware stores, but homeowners should avoid using them. While they may provide temporary relief and slightly improved drainage, they don’t usually break down the entire clog. You’ll find that the problem reoccurs in a few weeks. 

If you attempt to address this by dumping more chemicals down your drain, you risk corroding your pipes and causing major plumbing issues. They are also dangerous compounds to add to your septic system. 

Contact Stellar Plumbing, Drains and Water Heaters for Reliable Drain Maintenance in Glendale Heights, IL. 

Glendale Heights is an almost entirely residential village, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have access to the best plumbing businesses for your home. 

Whether you want to know how to fix a clogged drain pipe or want to learn more about maintaining your plumbing system to prevent blockages, we can help. Reach out to Stellar Plumbing, Drains and Water Heaters for exceptional service in Glendale Heights, IL. 

We also offer a range of home plumbing resources online, including our simple drain maintenance guide: “Drain cleaning explained.“

Call Now (773) 908-9375