How to clean the blockage of a pipe at home. Ways to clear blockages in the bathroom

Sewer systems are equally clogged in both private houses and apartment buildings. Soap deposits, greasy deposits and other debris accumulate on the inside of the pipes, which impedes the passage of water. Therefore, it is important to have an idea of ​​how to unclog a blockage in a bathroom or kitchen, as well as how to minimize the risk of a similar problem in the future.

Pipes can get clogged for a number of reasons:

• errors at the stage of laying the sewer system. If the slope of the pipe is insufficient, lumps of debris will form on a permanent basis. In this case, the solution to the problem is to completely replace the sewage system;
• long-term operation of pipes - even sanitary products made of high-quality materials begin to cope with their functions worse over time, the pipes loosen, and their inner surface is covered with various growths;
• the primary choice of materials - for example, deposits will form on cast iron pipes faster than on plastic counterparts;
• ingress of foreign objects through the drain;
• lack or insufficient care of domestic sewage.

Hair is the main cause of blockages in pipes

What does a blockage in pipes lead to?

Cleaning methods

If the pipe is clogged, you can use one of the following methods:

• thermal - the blockage is affected by the pressure of hot water;
• chemical - the resulting plugs are dissolved with special means;
• mechanical - debris is removed by means of a plumbing cable or by disassembling a siphon;
• pressure cleaning - a classic plunger is used.

One method or another is chosen taking into account the materials from which the pipes are made. So, plastic products can be damaged by a cable or boiling water, and the use of chemicals should be carried out in strict accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

The plunger remains popular, affordable and easy to use when it comes to figuring out how to clear a blockage in a bathroom, sink, or toilet. The device looks like a handle (wooden or plastic), one side of which is supplemented with a rubber nozzle. The principle of operation of the plunger is that under the influence of strong pressure, the resulting debris begins to collapse and move along the pipe. Often, waste flows freely and is easily disposed of.

But even such a simple device must be used correctly:

• if the pipeline is supplemented with an overflow hole, it is recommended to close it tightly (a rag or lid is suitable), while the pressure on the formed plug will be reduced;
• the rubber part of the plunger is tightly pressed against the drain hole, after which progressive rhythmic movements begin. In this case, the rubber element does not come off the surface of the sink;
• with a sharp movement, the plunger is torn off the drain.

Technique for clearing clogging with a plunger

When working on a clogged plunger drain, it is important that the water level in the bathroom or sink is higher than the rubber valve. Repetition of the procedure will achieve the best result and completely eliminate stagnant water.

Household chemicals

When debris clogs up in the pipe, various chemicals will help to quickly and effectively cope with the difficulties that have arisen. Their use is good because there is no need for any physical effort - the active substance of the drug will independently remove the existing problem.

Such funds have a different consistency: liquid, powder, gel or foam. The principle of their use is as simple as possible: the volume of the cleaning agent recommended by the manufacturer is poured or poured into the drain and left for the time indicated on the label. After the allotted time, water is turned on, which will ensure a thorough flushing of the pipes.

The use of any chemical preparations requires special attention. Their contact with the skin or mucous membranes is not allowed (work is carried out in protective gloves). In addition, it is undesirable to get the product on the chrome-plated surface.

You should not wait for the moment when the pipes begin to clog, because such chemistry is excellent for preventive purposes: a small amount of a chemical gel or liquid is poured into the drain hole for literally a few minutes, after which it is thoroughly washed with hot water.

Chemicals

Folk remedies

Folk remedies are also good for clean sewer pipes. Such a blockage removal procedure is environmentally friendly, simple to perform and does not require financial expenses, since the main active ingredient is ordinary soda.

Folk remedies

The work is carried out according to the following scheme:

• soda and table vinegar are taken in the same volume (no more than one glass of each product);
• soda is first poured into the drain hole, on top of which vinegar is poured;
• the drain is closed with a stopper and left for about 3 hours;
• after this time, the pipes are thoroughly washed with boiling water.

Aromatic lemon is an effective folk remedy. To eliminate contamination in the pipe, take several large citrus fruits and squeeze them into the drain hole (the main thing is that no seeds get there). The exposure time to the accumulated debris is at least one hour, after which you can start using the sink or bathtub.

First, soda is poured into the drain, and then vinegar is poured

Cleaning the siphon

To cope with the problem of how to remove the blockage, cleaning the siphon is often a sufficient measure. With this procedure, the order of actions will be as follows:

• the floor under the siphon is covered with a cloth that absorbs water well. So that the subsequent cleaning of the room does not take much time, it is better to place a bowl under the sink, where the dirty water will drain;
• after the bolt nut is unscrewed, the flask is carefully removed. After removing the flask, water will drain into the previously substituted bowl, which previously served as a water seal;
• then the clogged siphon is thoroughly washed with water, and plaque is removed from its walls (for this purpose, chemical agents are used);
• after the completion of the procedure, the structure is reassembled. It is important to ensure that the drain pipe does not place emphasis on the siphon flask, as this will break the water seal;
• to check the tightness of the connections, it is enough to turn on a strong pressure of water.

Siphon cleaning instructions

Such cleaning will be useful as a preventive measure. Flushing the siphon no more than once every 2-3 months will minimize the appearance of a foul-smelling plaque on its inner walls, which causes an unpleasant odor in the room.

Using boiling water

If the blockage in the sink made itself felt unexpectedly, when there is simply no time to remove it, you can use a simple and often effective method - cleaning the pipes with boiling water. The effectiveness of the method lies in the fact that under the influence of high temperatures fat will dissolve, which is often the cause of most blockages.

First, you need to determine the scale of the problem: if water has accumulated in one place (say, in a washbasin), then such a blockage is local in nature, and when there is water in all the drains, such a blockage is considered global. In this case, the solution to the problem is to clean all sewer lines, while in case of local pollution, it will be enough to clean one pipe.

Boiling water may only be used if the plumbing system is made with metal pipes. The principle of operation is as simple as possible: heat up to 4 liters of water and pour it into the drain. If necessary, the cleaning is repeated. For maximum effect, you can use a brush or plunger.

It is better to refuse boiling water if the water collects on the surface of the sink or bathtub and does not leave. It is important to remember that boiling water in this case simply will not affect the problem area. In addition, you must be careful when using the plunger, so as not to injure the skin with hot splashes. For plastic pipes, hot (but not boiling) water is suitable, into which washing powder is introduced in the proportion of 200 g of the mixture per 5 liters of water. The resulting solution is gradually poured into the clogged pipe.

Using a wire rope

Debris accumulated deep in the pipes is unlikely to be removed with the help of chemicals, boiling water or a plunger. Then you can resort to the plumbing cable for help. Such a cable looks like a thick twisted wire, one side of which is supplemented with a drill, and the other with a handle. The length of the cable is no more than 10 meters, which is quite enough to remove a blockage in the bathroom of an apartment or private house. It must be remembered that such a device is suitable for dealing with contamination of metal pipes.

Types of cables

To clean the drain with a plumbing cable, you should adhere to the following recommendations:

• first of all, the sewer pipe is disconnected from the siphon, after which the end of the wire is carefully inserted into the drain hole. If you have to deal with a modern sewer system, which is supplemented with special fittings for cleaning pipes, the siphon is left intact;
• that the cleaning process was as effective as possible, it will require 2 people to complete it - one of them will be responsible for the correct direction of the cable, and the second will directly clean the clogged pipe;
• when a place of pollution is found, the congestion is pierced with a cable with neat jerky movements;
• after that, the wire is removed, the pipe (if necessary) is collected and thoroughly washed with hot water.

If, during cleaning, the cable gets stuck in the pipe, it must be slowly rotated to the sides until it is possible to cope with the obstacle. The plumbing cable remains an effective solution to the problem of how to remove the blockage that has formed at the depth of the pipes on your own in a short time.

Cleaning scheme

Preventive measures

How often do we clean the siphon or treat the pipes from plaque? In order not to wait for the moment when the pipes of your apartment or house become clogged, you should adhere to simple tips for preventing such a problem:

• each drain hole should be covered with a protective mesh, thanks to which a minimum amount of waste will enter the pipes;
• once every few months, treat the domestic sewage system with appropriate chemicals that can dissolve accumulated debris, preventing it from forming plugs and impassable blockages;
• washing powder is an excellent substitute for such products. Once every 3 months, the drain holes of the bathroom and kitchen are closed, after which several glasses of washing powder are poured, hot water is turned on and the plugs are removed;
• in order for the sink in the kitchen to serve properly, it is enough to periodically rinse its pipe with hot water for 1-2 minutes;
• after each shampooing or taking a shower, it is recommended to clean the drain grate in the bath from accumulated hair;
• remember to clean the siphon to keep the pipes from getting clogged.

Such simple actions do not allow dirt to accumulate on the inner surface of the pipes, therefore, there will be no need to worry about blockages. Especially if you know how to remove a blockage in the bathroom.

Video

A blockage in a pipe, namely in a bathtub or sink, is a very unpleasant phenomenon that brings great discomfort. The drain is clogged, the throughput is reduced, and the water does not escape. In addition, a disgusting smell soon appears, the threat of flooding the premises or a pipe break.

To avoid this, it is important to eliminate the blockage in the early stages of appearance. As soon as you notice that the water started to drain longer than usual, you can carry out the procedure. In this article, we will learn how to clear a blockage in a bathroom or kitchen at home.

Causes of blockages

The reason for blockages is that hair, small debris, animal hair, pellets and threads from clothes, soap residues and much more get into the pipe and drain. These components form a tight lump that impedes the passage of water. To clean the pipe, you need to remove this debris. In this case, you can remove the blockage in the bathroom at home.

In old metal pipes, mineral build-up forms over time. In this case, the cleaning can only be carried out by an expert.

But this problem is rare and mostly in older houses where cast iron and steel pipes were used. The modern pipeline is made mainly of polypropylene, plastic and PVC, which is not susceptible to corrosion and the formation of deposits on the walls of products.

The reasons can also be improper sewerage installation and insufficient pipe slope, prolonged use of the pipeline and wear of devices. In this case, it is necessary to replace old pipes, wiring and risers, a siphon and other elements, or to eliminate defects made during the installation of the sewage system.

However, the most common cause of problems is the accumulation of debris in the pipes, which must be removed. Let's find out how to do it.

How to clear a blockage with a plunger or cable

Plumbing cleaning is the most common method used to remove blockages. The plunger exerts double pressure on the blockage, causing the debris inside the pipe to collapse. Close the overflow port, if present, tightly before the procedure.

Then press the rubber part of the plunger to the drain hole, press down on the device and start sharp, intense movements up and down. Make sure that the water in the sink or bathtub does not rise above the rubber valve during the process. Then pull off the plunger abruptly and repeat the procedure several times.

To ensure a more snug fit of the plunger to the drain, you can pre-lubricate the rim of the device with petroleum jelly. If it was not possible to completely remove dirt and debris, the drain is cleaned with a plunger and boiling water.

To do this, fill a third of the sink or bathtub with hot water. Then we insert the plunger and pump the pipe in the bathroom, pull it out sharply and repeat the procedure several times until the drain is completely clear.

Instead of a plunger, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a blowing function. The tube of the appliance is connected to the blow hole and the remaining end is wrapped with a cloth or soft material. This end is inserted into the drain hole and the vacuum cleaner is turned on.

Air pressure will push through or destroy the blockage. By the way, the function of blowing out air can also be used for outerwear after washing.

A severe, deep, and severe blockage will help clear the pipe sweeper. The procedure must be carried out carefully and carefully, otherwise the plastic pipes can be damaged. To clear a blockage in the bathroom with a cable, first remove the siphon.

Then take the device by the handle and point the other end into the pipe. Push the cable as deep as possible and begin to turn the cable clockwise.

When the cable reaches the gap, reinforce and speed up the rotation of the cable. He will push the debris further. After removing most of the blockages, pull out the product with the rest of the dirt. Rotate the cable clockwise only, otherwise it may break!

By the way, you can easily make a cable yourself. To do this, take a flexible metal wire, on one side of which wrap a cloth and make a handle. Bend the other end into a small hook.

Cleaning chemicals

Today, in stores and departments of household chemicals, you will find various products for cleaning pipes and blockages in the bathroom or sink. These are gels, powders, liquids and foams. Choose formulations that dissolve hair well and are suitable for your type of tubing.

By the way, many products are used not only for cleaning, but also for preventing blockages. We offer an overview of the most popular drugs.

• The mole is the cheapest and most affordable tool. It removes blockages and unpleasant odors effectively, but slowly; it lasts from 1.5 hours;
• Sanox is also an inexpensive drug that is suitable for every type of pipe. Delicately removes blockages and unpleasant odors, lasts from one hour. Has a child-proof cover;
• Chirton is a cheap remedy with a quick action of 15-20 minutes. Does not form dust and does not contain chlorine, but has a pungent odor. Available in gel and powder form;
• Tiret is a popular formulation for plastic and metal pipes, characterized by high cost and medium efficiency. The action time is up to half an hour;
• Deboucher is an effective gel in a convenient package with a blocking lid, suitable for plastic and polypropylene. Due to the chlorine content, it cannot be used for aluminum pipes. Works within an hour;
• Flup is an aggressive granular product with high efficiency without a pungent odor. Distinguished by easy and prompt cleaning of blockages;
• Bagi Pothan is an expensive but fast-acting granular product that works instantly in 3-5 minutes. It is characterized by high efficiency, economical consumption and convenient packaging. Not suitable for worn pipes and for preventing blockages.

Most chemical compounds have a pungent odor and corrosive effect, therefore it is recommended to clean pipes using protective equipment. Be sure to wear gloves and, if necessary, a respirator and eye protection. Carry out the cleaning procedure strictly according to the instructions and keep the product out of the reach of children.

Folk cleaning methods

1. Light dirt is removed by lemon. To do this, take one piece of fruit and squeeze the lemon juice into the drain hole. After two hours, rinse the tub or sink with hot water;
2. Fat and minor impurities in the pipes are removed with boiling water. Pour boiling water down the drain until the water starts to pass;
3. Cleaning with soda and vinegar is effective and efficient. The two components react with each other to quickly eliminate difficult contaminants. First, a glass of soda is poured into the drain, and then a glass of vinegar is poured and the hole is plugged for 20-30 minutes. After that, the pipe is washed with boiling water;
4. You can clear the blockage not only with baking soda and vinegar, but also with baking soda alone. Soda cleans and disinfects pipes by creating an alkaline environment. First, pour a liter of boiling water into the drain and clean it with a plunger after 15 minutes. Remove the dirt and pour a glass of soda into the hole, pour three more glasses of boiling water. Repeat the procedure if necessary;
5. Using salt and baking soda is another way to clean up a blockage in your bathroom. To do this, pour half of both components into the hole, pour boiling water. Leave for 8 hours, periodically pouring in fresh boiling water. Then rinse the tub or sink with hot water.

It is important to regularly remove hair from the drain. After each shampoo, be sure to collect and tidy up your hair. Use your plumbing properly to keep your bathtub or sink from getting clogged!

Do not clean vegetables in the kitchen sink, as the waste will easily clog the drain hole in a short time. Do not brush animals in the bathroom and do not rinse hair or threads into the drain hole. Do not wash your shoes directly in the bathroom, as dirt and sand will also clog the pipe.

To prevent blockages, it is sometimes recommended to pour boiling water into the drain hole, as it reliably removes soap and grease. Clean the siphon regularly. To do this, substitute a basin, bucket or other container under the pipe. Open the fasteners and remove the flask. Wait for the water to drain and gently clean the siphon with a soft cloth and water. Then put the device back.

Quite often people meet with blockages in pipes. This problem is common all over the world. In order to fix it and return the sewer system to its experienced performance, it is necessary, as soon as possible, to eliminate the problem that has arisen. If you slow down, then an eerily unpleasant rotten smell can form in the future, which is difficult to get rid of. You can eliminate the blockage yourself, or with the help of a plumber. But it should be borne in mind that these days the services of such a specialist will have a high cost, so the best option would be to clean the pipes with your own hands.

What contributes to pipe clogging?

In order for the pipes to get dirty, there are only five reasons, namely:

1. Errors were made during installation or the installation rules were not followed (for example, the pipe has an incorrect slope or cement mortar was used in the work).

2. Foreign body stuck inside the pipe.

3. As a result of long-term use of pipes, without proper cleaning, a sufficiently thick layer of scale has formed.

4. As a result of washing dishes, various impurities enter the pipes and form a grease plug, which interferes with the normal functioning of the water flow.

5. The pipes were not properly maintained or not properly maintained.

Regardless of which of the reasons was the blockage, it must be urgently eliminated. Both metal and plastic pipes can be cleaned.

Three easy ways to deal with small blockages

Often people wonder how to remove blockages in pipes without resorting to hard methods. And this is really possible, but only in the case when the cork, which has arisen due to pollution, is not yet too large and not very dense. If the so-called "first aid" can eliminate the blockage, then you will not need the subsequent methods described in the article.

1. First of all, it is necessary to pour hot water into the drain hole, practically boiling water (if the pipes are made of plastic, then simply turn on the tap to the highest temperature and leave it for 25 minutes). A plug that is not yet firmly seated can drain into the sewer. If the first method did not help, move on to the next.

2. When the cause of the blockage lies in the frozen fat, then you will need to use salt and soda. In a bowl, mix half a glass of salt, one glass of soda and the same amount of water. Next, pour the resulting solution into the drain hole. We are waiting for 7-12 minutes to pass, and we begin to "work" with a plunger. With the last action, we rinse the pipes with running water.

3. This method is suitable for owners of vacuum cleaners with built-in blowing function. If you are one of those lucky ones, then follow these steps: wrap the pipe of the vacuum cleaner with a rag. It is necessary that it be able to fit tightly into the drain hole. The powerful air flow will simply push the stagnation out.

If none of the methods helped to solve the problem, then a dense, large and already old cork has formed. But do not despair, there are methods for removing blockages in pipes that will help even in the worst cases.

Mechanical pipe cleaning method

By mechanically cleaning the pipes, the deposits in the water pipes are displaced, which allows the water flow to function normally. When removing the blockage with your own hands, the plunger will become the main tool. It must be firmly pressed against the drain hole in the sink with the collected water and pressed down. How are the pipes cleaned? Everything is extremely simple, a hydraulic column is formed, acting on the cork, contributes to its disintegration into small pieces, which are freely carried away by the flow of water. Using a plunger is an easy and cheap way to remove blockages.

Recommendation: in the case when a person owns a two-section sink, when cleaning, he will need to use 2 plungers at the same time. While the first one cleans the pipes in one sink, the second closes the other drain hole. Due to such actions, a large suction force is created. In the absence of a 2nd plunger, the drain in another compartment of the sink must be closed using a damp cloth, or, in extreme cases, by hand.

Also, you can use the services of a special plumbing cable. This tool is made of sturdy steel, has a comfortable handle, and has a spiral on the other side, or some have a brush at the end. Place the structure in the pipe and simply scroll. The direction of movement does not affect the result (from oneself - the blockage is pushed into the sewer, and moving towards itself - the plug is pulled out). During cleaning, do not forget to supply water so that the running water will wash away the dirt. Keep in mind that this method is more suitable for pipes made of metal. In such structures, in addition to clogging, the cable will help to partially get rid of rust, and using it in plastic can lead to serious damage due to excess mechanical pressure.

Not everyone has a plumbing cable on the farm, so it can be replaced with an ordinary hanger (made of metal). We will build a "mini-cable" from it. To do this, we cut it using nippers so that at one of the ends our structure has a small hook.

Advanced mechanical cleaning devices

The devices, which will be discussed further, are purchased most often, with constant strong blockages. When working with metal pipes, such a machine will be an electromechanical apparatus with a small diameter. The price for such a unit is quite high, so the best option would be to purchase it for the whole house. After all, all apartment owners have had to deal with a blockage problem, so the purchase of this device is advisable.

The principle of operation of the device is similar to a manual plumbing cable. But there are a couple of differences:

• the working cable at the unit is longer and has a small diameter, which allows you to get to the most inaccessible places of the sewer;
• the installation has many times more power;
• all actions of the apparatus are automated. It is enough just to insert the cable into the pipe, press the power button, and then the machine will do everything by itself.

We eliminate the blockage in plastic pipes with the same equipment for hydrodynamic flushing of the sewage system. The use of this type of technique has deservedly been called the most effective way in the fight against pollution that impedes the operation of the water supply system.

In fact, the machine copies the principle of operation of professional devices of public utilities: a unit is supplied to the drain hole, which supplies water to the pipes under high pressure (depending on the manufacturer, it can reach 145 atmospheres). Under the influence of liquid, the cork collapses very quickly and the blockage disappears. The device comes with a sleeve (the length allows you to get rid of the blockage even in the farthest corners of the sewer) with a special nozzle. This sleeve moves due to the opposite direction of the flow of the applied water, so the owner of such a machine does not have to put much effort in cleaning.

One of the most famous manufacturers of such equipment is the company "Karcher". The cost of such a device is naturally not small, but it is worth noting that the unit quickly pays for itself. By the way, the work of the structure can be used for prevention, it in turn will ensure the almost complete disappearance of the possibility of blockages.

Do not forget that after using any mechanical cleaning method, it is imperative to rinse the tubes with boiling water, in a sufficiently large volume.

Chemical method of pipe cleaning

Recently, people are more often than not giving their voice to the chemical cleaning method. As a result, many new clogging solutions have appeared on store shelves. And since their assortment is huge and is increasing every day, they were classified as follows:

• funds in liquid form (it is best to use this particular type, since it acts more gently, and is also convenient to use);
• dry products (in appearance - free-flowing powder);
• acidic;
• alkaline.

The choice of the tool is influenced by the type of material from which the pipes are made and the cause of the blockage. But the most popular among buyers for many years have been universal. Acid compounds were taken as a basis in their composition, which easily corrode any type of pollution. The most famous manufacturer of such a product is "Mole".

There are a number of tips on how to properly use a chemical cleaning method:

• first you need to pour boiling water into the sinks and stand for 25 minutes;
• then add the cleaning solution for a couple of hours;
• be sure to rinse everything with cool water at the end.

It is always important to remember that any household chemicals (even "Mole") are aggressive, and therefore any work with their use must be carried out very carefully and carefully. Any actions should be carried out exclusively in protective gloves and observe every single rule indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging.

Folk ways

The problem of sewage pollution has existed since its inception, therefore, in the old days, folk methods for removing blockages in pipes were invented, which are still used today. The most common of these is the use of baking soda and vinegar. To apply this method, you need to do the following:

1. Pour about 200 grams of baking soda into the drain hole, pour vinegar on top in an equal amount.

2. Close the hole with a stopper so that the foam does not start to come out.

3. Foam, which is the result of a chemical reaction, effectively begins to corrode all impurities, while removing the blockage.

Soda can be replaced with Alka-Seltzer, it can also unclog pipes that are not very clogged. We throw 2-3 tablets into the drain hole, and then pour 1-well mug of vinegar. After 3 minutes, we supply hot water through the pipes to help push through the dirt. In addition, using Alka-Seltzer in addition to get rid of the unpleasant odor.

Cleaning the siphon

Many men know that in addition to removing the blockage in the pipes, it is necessary to clean the siphon. This process will get rid of accumulated debris and eliminate unpleasant odors.

The cleaning procedure includes the following steps:

• on the floor we place a rag (well absorbing moisture) in such a way that it is directly under the siphon;

• we put a basin on top of the fabric, it will help to avoid spilling contaminated water on the floor;

• very carefully unscrew the bolt nut, and then remove the flask;

• after the previous action, water will begin to flow into the basin;

• the siphon must be washed under running water, carefully removing all accumulated plaque from the walls;

When installing the structure back, make sure that the drain pipe does not rest on the flask under any circumstances. This is a very important point, since the water seal can be broken. In order to check how tight all the connections are, you need to open the tap and fill the water seal.

It is worth noting that this kind of cleaning can also act as a preventive measure, but for this it must be carried out once every 4 months.

Please note that in the absence of positive results after applying all the above methods, you must call a plumber. Apparently, the plug was formed at great depths, and clogged too tightly.

Preventive measures

One of the most common ways to clog pipes is grease. It ends up in the sewer after washing the dishes and settles tightly on the walls. If blockages in pipes due to fatty deposits occur regularly, then installing a grease trap will be the best prevention. The structure is attached to the sink. The device filters waste that contributes to the clogging of the sewer pipes.

The principle of operation of the grease catcher is very simple and consists of 2 stages:

1. Water contaminated with fat particles enters the 1st section, where it is cleaned from various types of garbage.

2. In the second section of the unit, water is purified from fat and discharged into the sewer pipes, thereby ensuring long and carefree operation of the water supply system.

In addition to installing a special unit, it is worth adhering to a couple more recommendations for prevention:

• Do not pour liquids containing cooking oil into the sink;
• before washing, clean the dishes from food debris;
• once a week, remove the blockage from the pipes at home using a plunger or boiling water.

• when choosing, pay attention to the active substance (acidic or alkaline);
• the time of action of the agent depends on the concentration of the basic substance (the higher the percentage of concentration, the less time);
• it is forbidden to overexpose the agent in the pipe, as this can cause the destruction of the pipe walls, due to the presence of corrosive substances in the solution;
• after the end of the exposure period, it is necessary to rinse the sewer pipes with cool water;
• pay attention to the purpose of the product. The mark "preventive" means that this solution can be used only in pipes with a slight blockage. Therefore, it is more rational to use them once a week, in order to avoid emergencies. If the water drain is completely blocked, it is necessary to buy products whose label says: "capable of working in stagnant water."

After reading this article, people will not wonder how to remove a blockage in a sewer pipe on their own, and thereby save money on repairs. But always remember, the best remedy for blockages is timely prevention.

A blockage in the sink is a very unpleasant phenomenon, the cause of which, as a rule, is inaccuracy in the implementation of simple rules for using plumbing. Everyone knows that food waste should not be poured into the sink, especially if there is no special lattice plug-insert.

Most often, with such a violation of the rules for using the sink, the drain siphon is clogged - a curved piece of pipe under the sink. However, blockages sometimes do occur. You can find out how to solve this problem from our article.

Procedure for dealing with blockages

Before removing the blockage in the sink, it is necessary to remove water and all impurities from it and take the following steps:

• How to unclog a blockage in a sink? Immediately after slowing down the outflow of water from the sink, you must use a cleaning agent. For this purpose, as well as for the prevention of blockages, experts recommend using specially designed for this purpose chemical agents widely represented in the trade network.
• Habitual plunger usually helps in most cases of blockages and therefore is considered a very popular remedy for restoring water outflow. The plunger is a rubber cap equipped with a handle. When using it, due to pressure drops under the bell, the formed plug in the drain pipe, which caused the blockage, is easily destroyed.

• An effective way is considered flushing the siphon and adjacent pipes... It is recommended to use special household chemicals, for example, "Mole" is well suited for metal-plastic and metal pipes, for pipes of any type - "Tiret", "Mister Muscle". When using chemicals, protective gloves must be worn to ensure safety. The chemically active components of these products dissolve hair, food debris, and also destroy bacteria. Therefore, their use is effective for cleaning pipes and removing unpleasant odors from the sink hole.

• If all the measures taken did not bring the desired result, then removing the blockage in the sink ensures the use of plumbing cable.

Special cases

How to remove fat deposits in the drain siphon

The fat that settles in the drain siphon accumulates over time. In connection with this unfavorable process, the lumen of the pipe narrows, and as a result, its permeability becomes insufficient for water drainage.

You can cleanse body fat in fairly simple ways:

• for various pipes other than plastic - you need to regularly pour a pot of boiling water into the sink, and also clean the drain with a plunger,
• if the pipes are plastic, then dilute the washing powder in moderately hot water (a glass of powder in a 5-liter saucepan), stir the solution well and slowly pour it into the sink drain (if necessary, repeat the procedure).

Pro tip: Grease in the siphon is a common cause of sink clogging, so simply rinsing the siphon for 20 seconds with hot water each time you wash the dishes is an effective way to prevent blockages.

How to clean a corrugated drain pipe

On the corrugated surface, the deposition of fat, soap, detergents and various contaminants occurs very intensively. Therefore, corrugated pipes must be cleaned and rinsed periodically. Otherwise, the risk of blockages becomes very high.

In accordance with the rules, it is necessary:

1. before removing the blockage, you need to unscrew the pipe from the funnel located in the sink;
2. disconnect the upper pipe from the drain to the sewer;
3. carefully remove the elbow fold (siphon);

1. stretch the pipe so that all edges are straightened, and rinse it with water;
2. a more thorough cleaning of the pipe is carried out as follows:

• with a piece of cellophane and a rope, one end of the pipe must be closed;
• pour hot water inside the pipe, and close the other end in the same way as the first;
• taking the pipe with hands from both ends, carry out circular movements; if you repeat this action several times, then the cleansing effect will be much higher;

1. the siphon is cleaned, like the pipe, sometimes the tank is specially cleaned, designed to settle water;
2. after the completion of the cleaning procedure, all parts are tightly screwed.

Do powders with supplements help clean the drain pipes?

An effective remedy for sink clogging is washing powders, which contain biological additives. Among such products, powders "Bio", "Bio-Mig", "Bio-C", "Dosia" are popular. The enzymes contained in these powders provide effective breakdown of organic contaminants.

In order to efficiently flush the pipes in the event that the sink is clogged, you must:

1. before you break through the blockage in the sink, you must remove the water from it,
2. pour a hot solution of lye or soda into the drain hole, you can use special effective means "Krot", "Krot-2",
3. take a break for 1.5-3 hours,
4. after a break, pour hot water into the drain hole,
5. clean the drain with a plunger.

When cleaning blockages, plumbers prefer flexible cable

How to remove blockage if flushing the pipes does not work? Plumbers in such cases use a three-meter flexible cable. Thanks to the lance-shaped nozzle, the clogged area is destroyed during screwing movements into the drain pipe. After it was possible to clean the blockage, it is necessary to flush the pipe with a large volume of hot alkaline solution.

Pro tip: The metal cable must be used carefully, as it can damage the surface of the pipe, especially if the communications are old and have not been changed for a long time.

Every modern adult should know how to clear a sink from a blockage so that such a nuisance does not create unnecessary problems. The use of preventive measures with the use of effective chemicals largely solves this problem. However, often the problem can be quite serious and it will not be possible to cope with it on your own. In this case, it is better to invite specialists and, perhaps, think about the need to replace the sewer pipes.

Baking soda is an excellent remedy for removing blockages in sewer pipes. We will talk about how to clean pipes with soda and whether it is safe for the sewer system in this article.

Causes of pipe clogging

There are not many reasons for clogging of sewer pipes. They are:

• non-compliance with installation rules (incorrect pipe slope and the use of cement mortar, for example, when installing a toilet);
• ingress of a foreign object into the pipe body;
• the formation of a thick layer of build-up on the inner walls of the pipe as a result of long-term operation;
• implementation of improper care or its complete absence.

To establish the operability of the sewer system, it is necessary to remove the blockage. And the sooner you do this, the better, otherwise an unpleasant musty smell may form, which will be very difficult to get rid of. This can be done both independently and with the help of a specialist plumber. However, his services cost a lot of money, so cleaning pipes at home is the best option for removing blockages.

Ways to clear the blockage

There are several ways to clear the blockage:

• chemical (professional and home remedies);
• mechanical.

Chemical ready-made products

The chemical method implies the use of chemical-based products, the composition of which "corrodes" the deposits formed on the inner walls of the pipes. These funds are able to eliminate the blockage in a short time, while they are completely safe for the sewer system, regardless of what material it is made of (plastic or cast iron).

However, their use is unsafe for humans. They should be used very carefully. It is imperative to wear rubber gloves on your hands, and a mask on your face. Since chemicals have such properties as evaporation, their vapors can cause burns to the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx and eyes.

To avoid costly replacement of the sewerage system, at least once every 2 - 3 months, you need to use any industrial chemicals with a specific purpose for cleaning the sewerage system.

Mechanical pipe cleaning method

This method implies the use of one of the following tools:

• plunger;
• wire;
• plumbing cable.

If the blockage is not strong and shallow, then pipe cleaning at home can be done with the help of an ordinary ruff, which is available in every home. To do this, it is necessary to push it into the sewer hole and try to break through the waste mass with sharp pressing movements. If the distance of the blockage exceeds the length of the ruff, you can use a flexible rod by attaching a ruff to it. The resulting structure must be pushed deep into the sewer pipe in order to break through the blockage.

The plunger is also an excellent item that can penetrate the waste mass and make way for water to drain. For this you need:

• completely close the water drain hole with a plunger bowl, trying to completely block the air supply under it;
• pour water into the bathtub or sink so that it completely covers the plunger bowl;
• make 20 sharp vertical movements, the plunger handle must be kept at a slight slope;
• remove the plunger sharply from the water.

This method of cleaning pipes must be done until the blockage is completely removed.

How to clean pipes at home using a wire or rope? Everything is very simple, for this you need:

• put gloves on your hands;
• disassemble the siphon under the sink;
• slightly push a cable or wire into the sewer hole;
• push the wire or cable in a circular motion, gradually pushing it forward until the sewage masses are completely pierced.

If you do not have a cable or wire at hand, then in this case you can use a screwdriver or electric drill. They will effectively cope with the task at hand.

Traditional methods of cleaning the sewer system

And now let's talk about how to clean pipes with folk remedies, and in particular with soda. This method is very simple, any housewife can use it. For this you need:

• take equal amounts of baking soda and vinegar (one glass will be enough);
• fill the sewer drain with soda, pour vinegar on top;
• close the drain with a plug and leave to act for 2-3 hours;
• flush the drain with a few liters of boiling water.

Soda was used for cleaning pipes for many years. This method is one of the most effective and safest. It copes with the task perfectly, while it does not harm the inner surfaces of the sewer pipes.

Cleaning pipes with soda can occur both during clogging and for prophylaxis.

Another popular way is to use regular lemon. It is necessary to squeeze a few fresh lemons into the drain hole and leave the pipe without running water for at least an hour. You can substitute half a cup of lemon juice concentrate for fresh lemons.

To avoid costly replacement of the sewer system, it is necessary to carry out preventive cleaning of pipes at least once a quarter.