Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Fortunately, you don't have to be an expert plumber to get your sink or shower drain flowing freely again—all it takes is some basic know-how and the right tools. This blog post will provide an easy-to-follow guide for unclogging your sink or shower drain.
The Tools You Need
Before you can start tackling the clog in your drain, you'll need to ensure that you have all the necessary tools. Here's what you'll need: rubber gloves, a bucket, a plunger, a plumbing snake (or auger), and baking soda and vinegar (optional).
The Plunger Method
This is the easiest method for unclogging your drain; however, ensure you use a sink plunger instead of a toilet plunger. Start by putting on your rubber gloves and filling the sink with enough water to cover the plunger's cup. Then firmly press down on the plunger several times before quickly pulling it off again. This will create suction which should help break up whatever is clogging your drain. If this doesn't work after several attempts, move on to step two.
The Plumbing Snake Method
If plunging didn't do the trick, then it's time to break out the plumbing snake (or auger). Start by feeding the auger's cable into your drain until you feel resistance; this means that you've reached whatever is causing the blockage in your pipe. Gently twist back and forth while pushing against whatever is blocking your pipe; if done correctly, this should help dislodge whatever is causing the blockage. Once finished, flush out any remaining debris with hot water from your tap.
Using these steps should hopefully help you clear out any clogs in your sink or shower drain without having to call in a professional plumber! However, if none of these methods work for you, then give our team at Red Lilly Plumbing a call, as there could be something more serious causing your clog.