November 08/2023

How to Clear Up a Sluggish Drain Fast

You know that sinking feeling when a sink full of dirty water won’t drain away. There are few things more frustrating than standing knee-deep in dirty shower water. Luckily, there are several methods you can use to clear a sluggish drain before calling a plumber for clogged drain line repair. Mr. Rooter Plumbing walks you through six ways to clear a clogged drain fast.

Pour Boiling Water down The Drain

Start with the simplest trick in the book. Boil a kettle of water and carefully pour it down the drain. Sometimes, grease and soap scum can build up, and hot water can help break them down and clear the obstruction. Be cautious not to burn yourself, though.

Use a Plunger

If the boiling water doesn't do the trick, grab a plunger. Make sure there's enough water in the sink or tub to cover the plunger's rubber end, and then create a tight seal around the drain. Push and pull the plunger vigorously to create suction and dislodge the blockage. The pressure can dislodge the clog and get things moving again.

Baking Soda Method

Mix about a cup of baking soda with an equal amount of vinegar. Pour this mixture down the drain and cover it with a cloth or stopper to contain the fizzing action. Let it sit for around 15 minutes, and then flush it out with hot water. This chemical reaction can help break down debris and clear the way.

Snake the Drain

If the clog persists, it's time to get a little more hands-on. A drain snake, also known as a drain auger, is a handy tool used to clear stubborn clogs. You can find drain snakes at most hardware stores.

Here’s how to use a drain snake to clear sluggish drains:

• Step 1: Insert the drain snake into the drain until you encounter resistance.
• Step 2: Rotate the handle of the drain snake while applying gentle pressure. The snake's coiled end will work its way through the clog.
• Step 3: Keep pushing and turning until you feel the snake move more freely, indicating that it has passed through or broken up the blockage.
• Step 4: Carefully pull the snake out of the drain, retracting it into its casing.
• Step 5: Run hot water down the drain to check if the water flows freely.

Remove and Clean the P- Trap

Under the sink, you'll find a U-shaped pipe called the P-trap. Sometimes, the clog is located in the P-trap. Place a bucket underneath to catch any water, and then use a wrench to remove the trap. Check for and remove any debris or gunk causing the clog. Once clean, reattach the trap and run some water to ensure everything is flowing smoothly.

Call a Professional Plumbing Service

If the methods highlighted above do not work or you're dealing with a recurrent drain issue, it might be time to call in a professional plumbing service for clogged drain line repair. Skilled plumbers have the expertise and specialized tools to handle stubborn clogs and more complex plumbing issues. It might cost a bit, but it's worth it for a properly functioning drain.

For Professional Drain Cleaning, Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing

Have trouble with your drains? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for fast and reliable drain cleaning services. We have decades of experience in offering a comprehensive range of plumbing services to homeowners and businesses. You can trust the skilled plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to get rid of your kitchen, bathroom, and sewer clogs.