3 Easy Ways to Unclog a Drain

Bath-Shower (noun) a shower that isn’t really a shower because you’re standing in 6 inches of water thanks to the clogged drain you’ve been putting off clearing.

If you’re like most people, the minute you notice slow-draining water in your shower, bathtub or sink you shrug and hope it resolves on its own. But putting off this quick fix will likely only make matters worse and require professional help from the experts at Reliance. Check out these quick and easy ways to unclog a stubborn drain.

The Wire Hanger

An age-old technique that has been used by many amateur plumbers, the wire hanger method is surprisingly effective. Take any wire hanger, deconstruct its shape and leave a small hook on the end. Remove the shower or sink drain cover and snake the wire into the drain, wiggling and rotating it as you push it through. Dispose of the gunk that you remove and flush the drain with hot water. Rinse with a pan of boiling water for best results.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

This is one of the easiest ways to clear a minor drain clog. Channel your inner middle school science teacher and pour one cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar down the drain and watch as the chemical reaction breaks up that pesky clog. The next morning, flush the drain with boiling water. Repeat if necessary.

Drain Snake/Hair Clog Tool

If you know your clog is caused primarily by hair, a drain snake might be your best option. These tools can be purchased for under $10 at any hardware store and work well so long as the clog isn’t too deep in the drain.

Some drain clogs can only be cleared by a professional. If you’re still experiencing issues, call Reliance or schedule online to have your drains inspected and cleared in no time.