Introduction


Clogged drains and sink pipes are an incredibly common household plumbing issue that most homeowners will deal with at some point. Dealing with clogged drains can be frustrating, messy, and time-consuming if you don't know how to properly unclog them. This comprehensive guide will provide homeowners with steps for unclogging drains and cleaning sink pipes in order to resolve clogged drain issues as quickly and easily as possible. 


We'll cover everything from preventative measures, to signs of a clog, to tools needed, and step-by-step instructions for several DIY methods of unclogging drains and pipes. We'll also discuss when it's necessary to call in a professional plumber versus attempting to unclog the drain on your own. The goal is to equip homeowners with the knowledge to efficiently handle basic clogged drain problems without paying for costly plumbing services. Whether you're dealing with a slow running drain or a completely blocked pipe, this guide will walk you through solutions for getting your water flowing freely again.


Preventing Clogged Drains


Clogged drains can often be avoided by being mindful of what goes down your sinks. Here are some tips for prevention:


  • Avoid pouring grease down sinks. Grease, oil and fat can build up on pipe walls over time. Scrape grease into the trash before washing dishes.
  • Use drain strainers. Place strainers in sink drains to catch food scraps and hair. Empty strainers regularly to avoid buildup reaching the pipes.
  • Limit use of garbage disposal. While convenient, disposals can lead to debris accumulation. Compost food waste when possible instead.
  • Avoid flushing solids down toilets. Only human waste and toilet paper should go down toilets. Other items can get lodged and cause clogs.
  • Mind laundry lint. Excess lint in washing machine water can accumulate in pipes. Clean the lint trap regularly.
  • Limit use of drain cleaners. Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes long-term. Use them sparingly and follow instructions carefully.
  • Perform regular maintenance. Do monthly maintenance like flushing with hot water and baking soda to keep drains clear. Professional cleaning can also help.


Developing good household habits like these can help reduce the occurrence of clogged drains and prevent the need for unclogging down the road. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to your home's plumbing!


Signs of a Clog


A clogged drain doesn't always manifest with water overflowing from the sink. Here are some of the most common signs that your drain has a clog:


  • Water draining slowly. If it takes longer for water to go down the drain than usual, that's a sign of a partial clog. The reduction in water flow happens because the clog is blocking the drain and preventing water from draining freely.


  • Gurgling sounds. If you hear gurgling noises coming from the drain, it means air is trying to get through a clog or blockage. The air bubbles through water stuck in the pipes, creating the gurgling sound.
  • Water backing up. This is a clear sign of a severe clog. If water starts accumulating in the sink or tub instead of draining, it means the clog is completely blocking the flow of water. The clog needs to be cleared to get water draining properly again. Backed up water that overflows can also cause water damage if left unchecked.


Tools and Materials Needed


To unclog and clean drains and pipes, you'll need a few basic tools and materials:


  • Plunger - The suction cup end of the plunger creates pressure on the clog when you pump the plunger up and down. This pressure can dislodge clogs in sinks, tubs, and toilets. Choose a plunger with a bell-shaped cup and a long handle.
  • Auger/Drain Snake - An auger is a long, flexible rod you insert into the drain to hook, catch and pull out debris. Hand-crank augers are good for bathroom sinks and tubs. Powered augers with a drill attachment provide more torque for tougher kitchen sink clogs. Augers come in different lengths.
  • Baking Soda and Vinegar - When combined, the chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid) creates bubbles and pressure that can dislodge clogs. Only use this method for minor clogs.
  • Bucket - You'll need a bucket to collect water when snaking a drain. It also provides a place to mix the baking soda and vinegar treatment.
  • Gloves - Wear protective gloves when handling drain snakes and chemicals to avoid touching grime or splashing dirty water. Latex, rubber or vinyl gloves work best.


Having these basic tools on hand will allow you to tackle most basic clogged drain problems. Professional drain cleaners use specialized power augers and high-pressure water jets, but these basic DIY methods should unclog sinks, tubs and other drains in a pinch.


Using a Plunger


A plunger can be an effective tool for clearing simple sink clogs. Here are some tips on the proper technique:


  • Fill the sink halfway with water - this helps create pressure on the clog when plunging. Make sure to insert the plunger several times to build pressure before plunging.
  • Place the plunger over the drain opening and plunge vigorously 10-15 times - really put your weight into it. This forces air into the pipe to dislodge the clog.
  • Repeat several times if needed, refilling the sink halfway each time.
  • Clean off the plunger thoroughly after use to avoid spreading grime when you store it. 


Plunging works best for clearing debris like hair and loose material from fixture drains. It may not be as effective for tough clogs deep in the pipes. Don't use a plunger for toilets, as it can damage the wax ring seal. Be cautious with plungers on enameled sinks as the force could chip the finish over time.


Using a Drain Snake/Auger 


A drain snake, also called an auger, is a coiled metal wire that can reach deep into pipes to remove blockages. Using a drain snake properly is crucial for clearing clogs without damaging pipes.


There are different types of drain snakes:


  • Hand-crank augers - These basic drain snakes are operated by manually turning a crank handle to advance the cable into pipes. They can reach around 3-6 feet into drain lines.
  • Power drain augers - More advanced motorized drain snakes use a power drill to rotate the cable and penetrate deeper into pipes, up to 25 feet. Variable speed triggers provide more control.
  • Drum augers - Heavy duty drain snakes that attach a steel cable coil to a motorized drum for reaching 100+ feet into sewer main lines. Requires professional expertise.


To use a hand-crank or power auger:


  • Start by removing any drain screens or covers to access the pipe opening.
  • Slowly feed the auger end into the drain opening and advance it towards the clog. Don't force the snake or you may scratch pipe walls.
  • Crank the handle or turn on the drill to rotate the auger tip, letting it bore through and hook onto the obstruction.
  • Once snagged, slowly retract the cable while cranking to pull out the clog. Run hot water to rinse away debris.
  • Repeat steps until drain is fully cleared. Rinse the snake thoroughly after use.


Safety tips when using an auger:


  • Wear protective gloves to avoid injuries from wire cables or debris. Eye protection is also recommended.
  • Never reach your hand into a drain opening while operating the snake. The rotating auger can cause severe lacerations.
  • Avoid over-cranking the handle or drill, as too much torque can damage pipes.
  • Don't push drain snakes through standing water or sewage due to shock/contamination risks.
  • When handling drum augers, keep hands away from the rotating cable drum for safety.


With proper technique, drain augers can safely clear even the toughest clogs deep within pipes. Just take care not to scratch or puncture pipe interiors while snaking.