Unclogging Bathtub Drains

By Tal Potishman

Most of us have battled with a clogged drain at some point in our lives. For some of us, it has become more of a frustrating routine. Many people automatically call a plumber to fix the problem, however, it is important to note that a clogged drain can be dealt with quite easily; with the help of some tools.

What can you do to clear out the blockage?

If you look closely at the clog, you may be able to identify what is causing it. In most cases it will probably be bits of hair or some soap which you should be able to easily pull out. The thought of doing this is obviously not very attractive, however it should solve your problem. Sometimes a pair of tweezers or some bended wire should do the trick.

Plunge the clog away

If you cannot pull out the substance causing the clog easily yourself, you should try using a plunger. A plunger is cost-effective and very easy to use. There should be enough water covering the bottom part of the plunger. Then place the plunger over the central part of the drain and push down and up several times exerting pressure,

This method is useful as the pressure of the plunger usually clears up the clog and opens up the pipe. To test whether you have cleared the clog, you should lift up the plunger and the water should drain away easily. If it does not, you should try the plunging method again.

Try the snake method

If you have tried the plunger method with no results, you should try using the snake. You begin by guiding the snake into the clogged drain whilst turning the handle in a dextral manner. Hopefully the clog should be within easy reach, and this would then be easy to unclog. If it is not, then you will have to feed the snake through the opening of the overflow. This should hopefully solve your problem.

In most cases, the plunger or the snake should solve your clog problem. However if you have tried these methods several times and not had any success, then it may be time to call the professional plumber.

Ways to avoid clogging up your bathtub

Most bathtub or sink clogs occur because of particles of soap or other substances that latch onto hair. You can also avoid causing clogs by not dropping bits of soap into the drain

Many experts have recommended that once a month you should pour boiling water into the drain in your bathtub. This has the effect of melting any particles that build up

If you look around your house you will find useful household items such as baking soda or vinegar. These chemicals can also dissolve any other particle build up that causes the clogs

About the Author:

Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about local plumbers, boilers, Reading central heating, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.

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