30 May 4 Easy Ways To Fix Hair Clogged Drains
5/30/2017
By: Kathryn Hyer
The normal human sheds an average of 100 to 125 hairs each day. Whether you know it or not, this consistent loss of hair gets into your drains and adds to drainage problems in your showers, tubs, and sinks. Long hairs are especially more likely to clog drains, and can lead to other extensive plumbing problems down the road. Learn how you can prevent a hair-clogged drain, or learn how to fix one on your own. Continue reading below for easy and helpful plumbing tips!
Solution #1: The Snake
The tool is a slender, plastic rod with little hooks coming out of it that is easily lowered into a drain, while the hairs are snagged on the hooks on the way out.These thin little tools are simple to use, and tend to be effective. Most convenience stores carry them, or they may be ordered online. These disposable “snake” tools are are a cheap, easy way to keep your drains hair-free.
Solution #2: A Drain Cover
Hair clogged drains can completely be avoided if preventive measures are taken, such as using a drain cover. Although these are mainly used in showers and tubs, they may also be used in sinks. These plastic cylinder-like covers are placed over the drain, and act as a sort of strainer, allowing the water to flow easily into the drain but preventing the hair from doing so. These are inexpensive and a great way to prevent drains from getting clogged in the first place.
Solution #3: DIY Drain Cleaners
In an effort to forgo using liquid cleaners made with harmful chemicals, more and more people are opting to make their own drain cleaner, most of which are very simple and easy to make. Here is one of the more simple “recipes” for drain cleaners, that has proven to be effective for most:
Ingredients
- ½ cup of baking soda
- ½ cup of white vinegar
- Boiling water
Instructions
- Pour the baking soda down the drain, followed by the vinegar
- Cover the drain with a rag or plug
- Allow the mixture to break down anything that may be clogging the drain
- Flush with boiling water
Solution #4: Use A Plunger
For a drain that is already clogged, using a simple plunger could do the trick to clear it. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to use a plunger to unclog sink and tub drains.
To unclog the drain:
- Remove/unscrew the drain stopper and plug the drain with a rag/towel.
- Apply petroleum jelly to the lip of the plunger (This creates a tighter seal)
- Run enough water over the drain to barely cover it
- Plunge the drain vigorously 3-6 times
- Remove the rag (The water should drain quickly)
- If the drain is still clogged, repeat the process
Contact Mathews Plumbing for Plumbing Help!
Despite all of your efforts, occasionally there will be drains that simply won’t unclog. In these instances it’s best to call a plumber to help, and Mathews Plumbing & Heating is here for you! Our professionally trained plumbers are experts in the art of unclogging drains, and would love to assist you.
If you’re experiencing difficulties with your drains in the Rexburg, Idaho Falls, Blackfoot, Pocatello or Shelley areas, give Mathews Plumbing & Heating a call today at (208) 357-3439.
References:
https://greatist.com/health/it-normal-shed-much
http://www.marthastewart.com/272874/diy-drain-cleaners
https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-unclog-a-bathroom-sink-drain-with-a-plunger/