How to clean drains

Drains are hidden heroes in your house, says Mother Earth News. When they are working well you scarcely notice them, but when a sink won't drain, a toilet won't flush or you notice an unpleasant odour, it can be very frustrating. Fortunately, however, it is not usually necessary to call a plumber. Instead, there are some simple methods you can use to clean even the dirtiest of drains.

Causes

• Commonly debris accumulates in the U bend, a U shaped pipe about 6 inches below the drain hole. This pipe, when working properly, stops dangerous gases from rising up into your house but allows water to pass through. Debris that may accumulate there includes grease that has hardened, hair, food, or any number of kitchen or bathroom products that you should instead place in the bin.

Prevention

• Preventing your drains from getting dirty is often easier than cleaning them. Be careful about what and how much you allow down your drains. You can keep a drain strainer in your kitchen to prevent food going down the drain, dispose of grease or oil by placing it in the waste bin and remove hair from the drain hole after a shower or bath. In addition, never flush dental floss, condoms, nappies, cotton swabs, coffee grounds, cigarettes or cat litter down your toilet or into any of your other drains.

Using a Plunger

• Block any overflow openings in a bath or sink with a wet rag. This is to create a seal so the plunger will work effectively. Then, place the plunger over the drain hole. Press the plunger down and pull up 20 or more times, being careful to keep it sealed around the drain hole. Repeat this process until the drain is clear. Rinse the drain with soapy water when it is clear. You can use the same method with a toilet but with no need to block overflow openings.

Using a Chemical Cleaner

• Open all the windows in the room if you are inside and don rubber gloves. Read the instructions carefully before use. Commonly these solutions are poured down the drain with, or without, boiling water. Keep your face well away from the drain hole and never combine two or more different products, recommends the University of Florida. Commercial chemical drain cleaners are very toxic; never use them for drains leading to a septic tank.

Alternatives

• Pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by 3 cups of boiling water is often effective, advises care2.

  The official website for the City of Mesa, Arizona, recommends a similar method but replacing the boiling water with white vinegar for an even more effective drain cleaner.

  Another method is to pour a cup of washing soda down the drain. Wait five minutes and then follow with a cup of baking soda and three cups of boiling water. This will produce a very violent chemical reaction. Do not frequently use this method if you have PVC pipes as it may cause damage