- There are a number of household tools that will help you unclog your drains. First try boiling water, then a plunger and finally, a drain auger. If you do not own an auger, create one using a wire hanger; straighten the hanger and bend the tip into a semi-circle. This homemade version will not be as flexible as a drain auger. There are also liquid or dry chemical drain openers, but be aware that these products are very strong, and take the proper precautions when using them--such as wearing disposable gloves. Never use a chemical drain opener together with a plunger or an auger because the water could splash you in the face and eyes, causing serious injury.
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For partially-clogged drains with metal pipes, boil a gallon of water and pour it down the drain to loosen and remove the blockage. If you are unsure whether you have metal or plastic pipes, do not attempt this step, as plastic tubing is not made to withstand boiling water temperatures.
A plunger will help clear a completely blocked drain. Fit the plunger completely over the drain, allowing a little water to remain to help create a vacuum. If you are unclogging a sink or bathtub, remove the stopper and cover the overflow opening with a wet rag so that the plunger has more pressure. Once you have covered the drain completely with the plunger, pump up and down with a rapid, steady movement for at least one minute. Test the drainage and repeat as needed.
If you cannot unclog the drain with the plunger, use an auger. Insert the auger down the drain and through the bends of the pipe and trap; bend it first to allow more flexibility. If you cannot thread the auger beyond the trap, unscrew the plug from the trap over a bucket. Allow the trap to drain and then thread the auger through the trap until you find the blockage.
Once you find the blockage, twist the auger gently to break up the blockage. Do not push or force the auger, as you may compact the blockage and worsen the problem. Little by little, remove the blockage--which is usually hair in a bathtub or shower, or food particles in a kitchen sink. As with the plunger, repeat as needed. - If you notice that water is slow to drain in all your sinks, showers and toilets, check the main drain. The main drain will have clean-out plugs at different intervals, so start at the plug closest to your kitchen or bathroom. Place an empty bucket underneath the clean-out plug and loosen it, using a wrench if necessary. Water should drip out, but if no water comes out, tighten the plug and move on to the next clean-out plug. Once you find the clean-out plug that drips when loosened, remove the plug entirely and allow all of the backed-up water to evacuate. Use an auger or coat hanger to find and gently loosen the blockage. Attempt to remove the blockage by twisting the auger around. If the clog is beyond the length of the auger, rent a sewer rod to reach the blockage.
