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Is your kitchen sink slow to drain, leaving water pooled after washing dishes? If you're noticing this, it likely means you have a blocked drain, and your plumbing might be crying out for help!

Blocked drains strike at the worst times, right before guests arrive, in the middle of dinner, or when youโ€™re rushing to get out the door. Itโ€™s a nuisance and a headache for every homeowner with its unpleasant smell and despicable sight.

However, we can help you get through it because most household clogs can be cleared with a few basic tools and a bit of DIY knowledge. Whether itโ€™s a slow-draining sink or a stubborn shower blockage, having the right tools on hand can save you time, money, and stress.

Here's a simple guide to the must-have tools and techniques every Aussie should know.

Understanding the Basics of Drain Blockages

But first, as homeowners, we should understand the needs of our home, whether it's plumbing issues. It is best if we identify the source of its problem so you would be able to help and choose the right tool, saving time and preventing unnecessary damages in your own home. Plus, a solid grasp of your homeโ€™s plumbing makes DIY solutions far more effective and hassle-free.

Common factors could be the reason for the blockage of your drains. Hair, food scraps, grease, and soap scum are common culprits behind most household clogs. By knowing whatโ€™s causing the blockage, you could help fix it more effectively.

Drain Cleaning Tools Youโ€™ll Need to Unclog a Drain

1. Plungers

If youโ€™re in the kitchen doing cleaning chores and the water is not draining, grab a plunger and try unclogging it. Using the plunger, position the plunger over the drain, and pump it up and down vigorously a few times before lifting it. By doing this, it can make a strong suction to unclog the minor blockage.

The plunger is an ideal tool for unblocking bathtubs, toilets, and sinks. These manual tools are affordable and simple to operate for any homeowner.

2. Drain Snake or Cable Auger

If you have noticed a blockage deep down the drainpipe, it is best if you use a drain snake or a cable auger to uplift the cause of the drain.

A plunger just wonโ€™t cut it, this tool dives deeper. It effectively clears blockages caused by hair, food debris, and other solid materials.

3. Closet Auger

Clear out your toilet blockage using the closet auger for the job well done. Itโ€™s a perfect tool to unclog your toilet drain, itโ€™s easy to use and highly effective. Its sharply curved end is precisely angled to navigate the bends of a toilet trap with ease.

4. Wet and Dry Vacuum

These tools are effective for clearing blocked drains, whether wet or dry. A vacuum helps remove hair, debris, and other materials causing the blockage.

Wet and dry vacuums are good tools to use for DIY drain unblocking. It powerfully sucks out stubborn clogs from sinks, showers, and tubs. Just donโ€™t forget to clean the filters and hose after each battle to keep that suction strong and ready for the next round.

5. Chemical Drain Cleaners

If you have a clogged drain in your kitchen or bathroom, one of the effective methods could be using a chemical drain cleaner. It helps in dissolving that which is caused by grease, soap scum, and other organic materials.

However, use chemical drain cleaners with caution, as they can be harsh on your pipes and the environment. When applying them, wear eye protection and gloves for safety. Always store drain cleaners in a secure, well-ventilated area, keeping them out of reach of children and pets.

There are also natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar that offer a safer, eco-friendly way to dissolve minor blockages and are great for regular drain maintenance.

DIY Drain Maintenance Tips

Prevent plumbing disasters before they start! Regularly flush drains with hot water, use natural cleaners, and keep catchers over plugholes to stop clogs in their tracks. These simple habits take just minutes but can save you from costly repairs and unexpected emergencies. A little prevention goes a long way to protect your home and your wallet with these easy steps!

Know When to Call a Professional

Some plumbing problems are too big for DIY fixes, and practicality should always come first. When quick fixes arenโ€™t enough, calling a professional plumber is the smartest way to protect your home from costly damage. If youโ€™re dealing with persistent bad smells, recurring backups, or water overflow, itโ€™s time to call in a professional and fully qualified plumber. Ignoring these signs can lead to costly damage, so knowing your limits is essential to protecting your home from major plumbing issues down the line.

Being prepared means you can take immediate action when a blockage hits and avoid the hassle of emergency callouts for simple fixes. Get the job done with the trusted plumber for your residential and commercial properties.

Letโ€™s Unleash the Clogs and Fix It Now!

If you are still experiencing clogged drains and your DIY method is still not working, then itโ€™s time to call on emergency plumbers near you!

The best you could do to save more damages in your home is to hand the job over to a professional plumber. If you are residing in Adelaide and need assistance clearing and removing the causes of your blocked drains, contact the best and most trusted, Your Local Plumbers. Our expertise resolving plumbing issues runs for over fifteen years in service. Offering quick, affordable, and local plumbers in Adelaide. Get your drains flowing again with expert help you can trust! For every plumbing issue, we provide solutions you never thought possible.

 

19 May 2025

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