A blocked or slow-moving drain can be a nuisance. It can also be a sign of a bigger problem. If left unaddressed, a blocked drain can cause extensive damage to your property. That's why it's important to take action as soon as you notice your drain isn't working properly.
Investigate the Problem
The first step is to investigate the problem. Try running some water down the drain to see if it clears up the blockage. If the water doesn't go down the drain or if it backs up into your sink or tub, there's a good chance you have a clog. Another sign of a clog is slow drainage. If it takes longer than usual for your sink or tub to drain, there's a chance you will need to do drain cleaning.
Identify the Location of the Blockage
Once you've determined that you have a clog, the next step is to identify the location of the blockage. The most common location for a clog is in the trap, which is the curved portion of pipe under your sink or tub that holds water and prevents sewer gasses from coming into your home. If the blockage is in the trap, you may be able to clear it yourself using a plunger or a plumber's snake—a long, flexible auger that can be inserted into the drain and used to break up or remove clogs.
Call a Plumber
If you're not able to clear the blockage yourself, it's time to call a plumber. A professional will be able to quickly identify and fix the problem so that your drains are back up and running like new again.
Prevent Future Clogs
Once your drains are working properly again, take steps to prevent future clogs from forming. Some simple ways to do this include being mindful of what goes down your drains, regularly cleaning your drains, and using strainers in your sinks and tubs to catch hair and other debris before it has a chance to build up and cause problems.
Dealing with a blocked or slow-moving drain can be frustrating, but it's important to take action as soon as you notice there's a problem. The sooner you identify and address the issue, the less damage it will do to your property—and the less money you'll have to spend on repairs!
