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<h2>Tips to Unclog Clogged Drains in Your Plumbing </h2> Clogged drains are more than annoying, they’re usually a sign of a bigger problem. While some clogs require professional assistance, there are many easy DIY fixes that can clear smelly sink, tub or shower drains before you call the plumber.  Start with a plunger, then try a coat hanger (simply straighten it to create a hook) or a snake. If these tools fail, move on to more powerful solutions.  Plunger  Clogged drains can be a real nuisance, but they don’t necessarily have to be. Whether the culprit is chunky salsa or accumulated hair, most clogs are only partial blockages that can be resolved with an easy-to-use DIY solution.  The first thing to do is grab a plunger (one that fits the drain, such as one with a flange or specially designed cup). Make sure there’s water in the tub, sink or toilet around the drain hole, which helps the plunger create a seal.  Thrust the plunger up and down quickly over the clogged drain. This will break up the gunk that has collected in the drain and create a better flow of water. Repeat as needed. If the drain still isn’t working, consider a commercial chemical drain cleaner, but only as a last resort because these products are harsh and can damage your pipes. If that doesn’t work, call your local plumber. Sites like <a href="https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-mornington/">https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-mornington/</a> can provide you with plumber’s information if you don’t have a plumber.  Snake  If a plunger fails to dislodge a stubborn drain clog, it may be time to try using a snake. A plumbing snake, also known as a drain auger, is a long metal cable with an auger head on one end and a handle on the other. The auger head tangles around the clog and allows you to pull it out of the pipe.  Before you begin, make sure that you have a pair of rubber gloves and a bucket on hand to catch any debris that might fall off the snake. It’s also helpful to remove any drain covers or strainers beforehand.  Uncoil the snake and feed it down the drain slowly, while rotating the handle. As you move it down the drain, feel for resistance; this indicates that you’ve encountered a clog. Continue to crank the handle and move the snakehead back and forth and up and down until you feel that the clog is breaking up and/or moving freely through the pipe.  Coat Hanger  A <a href="https://whatsjt.com/tips-to-unclog-clogged-drains-in-your-plumbing/">clogged toilet</a> can be one of the most annoying household problems. Fortunately, it is often easy to clear using items you probably already have in your home.  Unravel a standard wire hanger and straighten it out, then insert it into the drain where you suspect a clog is located. While it won’t reach as far down a drain as a plumber’s snake, it can still dislodge most blockages. Plus, it can make you feel like a housewife/MacGyver.  To use this tool, first open up the p-trap in your tub or sink (the trap is usually on the floor under your kitchen and bathroom cabinets). You can loosen the plastic nuts that hold the p-trap together by using a pair of large tongue and groove pliers. Then you can pull it apart and clean out the debris inside. This is a great option to try before trying chemicals. Just be sure to wear gloves and don’t use too much force, as excessive pressure could cause permanent pipe damage.  Chemicals  Clogs that are too severe for a plunger or drain snake can require the help of chemicals and other specialty equipment. A professional plumber can use a video camera attached to a special auger that extends down your pipes to break up and remove the clog.  Chemical drain cleaners are readily available and promise a fast solution. However, they can corrode your pipes and cause other problems when used regularly.  Instead, try a natural alternative that is safer for your pipes and environment. Baking soda and vinegar are a great combination that can break apart clumps of hair, soap scum and food residue that clog your drain.  For best results, pour a half cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a half cup of vinegar. Plug the drain and let this mixture sit for an hour before flushing with boiling water. Repeat if necessary. You can also add a few tablespoons of cream of tartar to this mixture for an extra strong clog buster.