How to Unclog House PVC Pipe

A clogged PVC pipe can cause your sink to backup and fill with water.

PVC plastic pipes, commonly used in household plumbing, can clog up and cause your home's drains to malfunction. A simple clog usually requires nothing more than a plunger and some muscle to fix. A large clog often requires more involved measures. The majority of clogs are caused by a combination of hair and soap residue.

Things You'll Need

• Plunger
• De-greaser
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Bucket
• Screwdriver
• Wrench
• Snake

Instructions

1. Turn the hot water faucet on and let it run for five to ten minutes. Hot water may dislodge whatever is clogging the pipe by melting it away, or melting away the sludge around it and allowing the item to pass through the pipe. Turn the faucet off if the water immediately backs up into the sink.

2. Fill the sink with two inches of water. Place a plunger into the sink over the drain. Press the plunger firmly down to create a seal. The suction caused by the plunger over the drain opening will help force the clogged debris free in the pipe. You will need to push the plunger up and down many times to free the debris clogging the pipe.

3. Clean the pipes with a de-greasing solution or a solution composed of baking soda and vinegar. Most clogs are caused by soap residue and hair. Purchase a de-greasing product compatible with PVC pipes at a home improvement store. Pour the recommended amount down the drain. Allow it to sit in the pipes for the manufacturer's recommend length of time, then flush the pipes with water. The baking soda and vinegar solution provides a non-toxic alternative for dissolving soap residue clogging PVC pipes. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into the drain, followed by 1/2 cup vinegar. Cover the drain. Allow the solution to dissolve the clog for five to ten minutes, then flush with hot water.

4. Place a bucket under the clean out plug. Remove the clean out plug. Insert a screwdriver into the opening and wriggle it around to loosen the clog.

5. Disassemble the P-trap underneath the drain. Place the bucket under the P-trap. Loosen the P-trap nuts with a wrench. Disconnect the P-trap. Clean the inside of the P-trap with a wire brush and running water. Reassemble the P-trap.

6. Insert a flexible mechanical snake into the drain. Spin the snake as you push it down the drain until it reaches the clog. Continue rotating the snake to loosen and remove the clog.

References

• Plumbing Hardware Store: How to Unclog Drains, Toilets, and Sewers
• Help in a Flash: How to Remove a Clog
• Ask the Builder: Household Drain Clogs