Some of the peskiest plumbing problems are clogged drains. Homeowners often waste money on several attempts to unclog drains with pour-in drain cleaners, and finally end with a call to a plumber in their ultimate frustration.
Most drain clogs are easily cleared with either an auger or a plunger. A plunger is used to apply pressure to a clogged drain. This pressure can dislodge matter that is
blocking the drain. The techniques are simple.
- Place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down to force water down the drain and to free the clog.
- It may be necessary to cover the sink or tub vent with foam or duct tape prior to operating the plunger.
When working with drains always be sure to sterilize your tools afterwards.
- For stubborn sink or tub clogs, an auger may be used to clear the stoppage. Shallow clogs can be cleared by inserting the auger bit directly into the drain until you feel resistance, then turn the auger in the drain while feeding more auger line into the drain until the stoppage has broken loose.
- If the stoppage is beyond the P-trap, you will need to remove the trap to access the drain pipe in the wall.
- Compression fittings used for waste plumbing can usually be loosened by hand but a large adjustable wrench, channel lock pliers or pipe wrench may be used if necessary. Be sure to place a container under the drain to catch the water.
- Once the trap is removed, remove the following elbow and other components as necessary to gain access to the drain pipe in the wall.
- Feed the auger bit into the drain pipe and begin turning it when you feel resistance; and continue until the stoppage has loosened.
- Reassemble the drain components and flush with hot water to clear the remaining debris from the drain pipe. Be sure to clean, sterilize and lubricate your auger as you wind the line back into the case.
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