Dealing with a clogged drain blockage is never fun, whether it’s your kitchen sink, bathroom tub, or shower drain. Luckily, you don’t always need to call a plumber for drain cleaning in Pittsburgh. You can often solve the problem yourself with simple tools and patience. We asked the experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh to show you how to clear a clogged drain at home so you can get things flowing smoothly again.

5 Steps to Help You with Your Clogged Drain

Why Do Drains Get Clogged?

Over time, debris such as food particles, soap scum, hair, grease, and other waste can build up inside your pipes. This buildup makes it harder for water to flow freely, leading to slow drainage or complete blockages. 

Step 1: Try a Plunger

A plunger is one of the easiest tools to use when dealing with a clogged drain. Here’s how to use one:

1. Cover the Overflow Hole: Cover the overflow hole with a wet cloth or tape if you’re working on a sink or tub. 
2. Position the Plunger: Place it directly over the drain, ensuring it forms a good seal. Hold the handle firmly with both hands.
3. Start Plunging: Push down firmly, then pull up quickly. Repeat this motion 10 to 15 times, keeping the seal intact. After several plunges, check to see if the water begins to drain.

If this doesn’t clear the clog, you might need to try a different method.

Step 2: Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

For clogs caused by soap scum, grease, or other organic matter, you can try a natural method using common household items. Baking soda and vinegar are excellent for clearing clogged drains in a safe, eco-friendly way. Here’s how to do it:

1. Pour Baking Soda: Pour about 1/2 cup of baking soda directly into the drain. Let it sit for a few minutes.
2. Add Vinegar: Follow the baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar. 
3. Let It Sit: Cover the drain and let the baking soda and vinegar sit for about 30 minutes. During this time, the fizzing action will help loosen up the debris.
4. Flush with Hot Water: After waiting, pour boiling water down the drain to flush everything away. If the water drains properly, you’ve successfully cleared the clog!

Step 3: Use a Drain Snake or Auger

Sometimes, clogs are deeper in the pipes and require more power to remove. A drain snake, also known as an auger, is a flexible tool that can reach further down the drain to break up the blockage. 

1. Insert the Snake: Place the end of the drain snake into the drain and start feeding it into the pipe. Keep turning the handle to push the snake deeper into the drain.
2. Break Up the Clog: When you feel resistance, that’s likely the clog. Turn the handle to work the snake through the blockage, breaking it up. 
3. Pull Out the Snake: Slowly pull the snake out of the drain, ensuring it does not damage the pipes. Once the snake is removed, run hot water down the drain to remove any remaining debris.

Step 4: Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum

If you don’t have a drain snake, a wet/dry vacuum can also help you clear a clogged drain. Here’s how to use a vacuum:

1. Set Up the Vacuum: Set your wet/dry vacuum to the liquid setting, and make sure the hose is attached tightly.
2. Create a Seal: Place the hose over the drain and create a tight seal around it. Use a wet cloth or duct tape to prevent air from escaping.
3. Vacuum the Clog: Turn on the vacuum and let it run for 30 seconds to one minute. The vacuum will suck out any debris causing the blockage. Afterward, check if the drain is clear.

Step 5: Call for Professional Drain Cleaning

Sometimes, the clog won’t budge, no matter what method you try. When this happens, it’s time to call in the experts for professional drain cleaning. If you live in Pittsburgh or the surrounding area, local services specialize in drain cleaning in Pittsburgh. 

Consider scheduling regular drain cleaning services if you constantly deal with clogged drains.

Prevent Future Clogs

Preventing future blockages is essential once you’ve successfully cleared a clogged drain. Here are some tips to keep your drains clean and flowing:

1. Use Drain Screens: Place screens over your drains to catch hair, food, and other debris.
2. Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain: Grease from cooking can solidify inside pipes and cause blockages. Instead, pour grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
3. Regular Maintenance: Perform regular drain cleaning in Pittsburgh or at home to keep your pipes clear. Try using baking soda and vinegar once a month to keep things flowing smoothly.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh

Following these steps can help you clear most clogged drains at home and avoid expensive repairs. If you cannot clear the clog, remember that Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh is always available.