A blocked drain is a common problem that we encounter from time to time. It might be a slow drain in the shower or a clogged kitchen sink, but it’s a job that usually can be easily fixed with a trusty plunger.
And if you’ve recently bought an older home to renovate, there’s a good chance that those old drains are not clearing as efficiently as they once did.
These are 3 common causes for a blocked sink. They are
- Hair and soap scum are often the causes of a blocked or slow-draining bathroom sink, shower or bathtub.
- A kitchen sink typically has a buildup of fats and grease over time.
- If you’re concerned that sewage water is backing up, a blocked toilet can be the result of excessive toilet paper usage or flushing non-flushable items.
A plunger is a cheap, essential tool that every household should have on hand. Before calling a plumber, try unclogging a bathroom tub or kitchen sink with this simple technique.
Note: If you have a slow draining double sink, it’s dealt with a little differently. Click on this link to find how to unclog it.
How to use a plunger
Step 1:
Place the plunger directly over the drain.
Step 2:
Secure the rubber part of the plunger with your fingers to prevent air entering when you commence the plunging process.
Step 3:
Pump the handle of the plunger up and down, while securing the rubber part of the plunger with the other hand.
Step 4:
Listen for sound coming from inside the pipes. You should be able to hear water moving through the pipes.
Step 5:
Remove plunger. Water should drain down through the pipes again.
A plunger is one of those tools that you should have on hand for home maintenance. When you notice a sink is starting to back up, you just want to be able to grab the plunger from under the sink and start plunging. You might be surprised how easy it is to use. Why not give it a try yourself?
