Living in the beautiful town of Yeovil, you’ll be well aware of its charming rural setting and stunning green landscapes. However, one less than charming aspect of life many have to deal with in the old dwellings of this Somerset town is blocked drains. Blocked drains can create an unsanitary environment and cause various issues ranging from unpleasant odours to structural damage in your property if left unattended. Fortunately, there are various DIY methods for clearing blocked drains you can try before calling in professional plumbers.
Before you begin, you may need the following tools: a plunger, plumbing snake, salt, baking soda, vinegar, and hot water. Certainly, some of these are kitchen staples while others can be acquired from a local store. If the blockage is severe, you may need to invest in specific drain unblockers as well.
1. Plunge In: One of the quickest methods to clear clogged drains is the good old plunger. Seal the plunger over the drain and pump it vigorously to suck out the blockage. Ensure the plunger cup is submerged in water to create enough suction.
2. Snake Charm: Plumbing snake is another handy tool, especially for stubborn blockages. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it to break up the obstacle. Make sure to wear protective gloves as the process can get messy.
3. Natural Unblockers: If the blockage is minor, ingredients found in your pantry, such as baking soda and vinegar, make an effective combination. Pour half a cup of baking soda to the drain followed by half a cup of vinegar. Wait for about 20 minutes and rinse with hot water. The fizzing action helps to loosen the blockage, and the hot water washes it away.
4. Salty Solution: Salt is another useful ingredient when in combination with baking soda. Mix equal amounts of salt and baking soda and pour in the drain, followed by boiling water, wait for a few minutes, and rinse with water. Salt has antibacterial properties that clean and unclog the drain.
5. Caustic Soda: Caustic soda or Sodium Hydroxide can be an effective solution for severe blockages. A word of caution, always wear eye-glasses and gloves, as caustic soda can cause burns. Mix it with cold water and pour down the drain. Wait for around 30 minutes and flush the drain with boiling water.
While these DIY methods can help you clear blocked drains, they may not work for all types of blockages, especially severe or complicated ones. Additionally, it’s essential to be careful and ensure you’re not causing further damage to the pipes. If you’ve tried these methods and the drain is still blocked, its best to hire professional services.
There are many plumbers and drainage specialists in Yeovil you can rely on who have the necessary equipment and skills to offer an efficient service. Remember, sometimes trying to save money on a DIY method can end up costing more if you damage the pipes.
In conclusion, maintaining your drains is crucial for keeping their function intact. Don’t neglect potential blockages, one small problem can lead to blocked drains yeovil bigger issues down the line. Regularly clean your drains following DIY methods, and if necessary, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals in Yeovil. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!