There are many ways that a drain can get blocked, but fortunately, there are also many ways to unclog a drain pipe. This brief article will go over some of the best ways to unclog a blocked drain in your home.

How to Clear a Blocked Drain

There are many different ways to clear a blocked drain. In terms of which method will work best, it really all depends on the severity of the blockage. That said, here are ten of the most common methods used to clear blocked drains.

Boiling water

One of the easiest methods for clearing a clogged drain is to pour boiling water down the drain. The hot water will expand as it enters the pipe and help dislodge any debris that may have gotten stuck.

Natural cleaners

Natural cleaners such as vinegar or baking soda are good alternatives to using harsh chemicals to clear your drains. Pour either of these down your drains and wait for 30 minutes before running water through them again.

Caustic cleaners

If natural cleaners don't work, you can try using caustic chemicals like Drano to clear your drain. These chemicals should only be used as directed on the product label because using too much can damage your pipes.

Plunger

It’s the most popular and easiest way to unclog a drain, but it may take more than one try if the clog is really bad. The plunger can be used on sinks, shower drains and toilets, but if the clog is severe, then a plunger probably won't be enough to clear it.

DIY drain snake

A DIY drain snake is an easy way to clear a blocked drain at home. You just insert one end of the snake into the drain and pull it through until you feel resistance. The other end should be attached to a handle so that you can pull it back out when you're done cleaning out the clog.

Plumbers drain snake

If you have a particularly stubborn drain blockage, then a plumber's drain snake might be the tool for you. A plumber's snake is more expensive than the DIY option, but it also has more power behind it, so it can break up even the most stubborn blockages.

CCTV

A CCTV inspection camera is perfect for inspecting drains and pipes. It's a small camera on the end of a flexible wire that allows you to see inside drains and pipes. You can use this method to identify where the blockage is and then use another unclogging technique to dislodge the blockage.

Hydro Jet

Hydro jetting is one of the most effective ways to clear a blocked drain quickly and easily. It uses high-pressure water jets to blast away debris from within the pipe and dislodge any blockages.

Excavation

If you have tried all of the above methods and are still facing problems with your drain, then it's time to get in touch with a professional plumber who will excavate your drain and remove the blockage manually.

Pipe relining

Pipe relining is the process of lining pipes with new resin material. This is a great way to keep drains free from blockages in the future. It's also less invasive than other methods, making it ideal for homeowners who don't want to pay for expensive repairs later on.

Conclusion

Sometimes you can unclog a blocked drain at home in just a few minutes; if the methods we've looked at don't work, you can hire a plumber that offers CCTV services to locate and clear the blockage for you. Good luck!