Few things are as frustrating as a slow or completely clogged drain. The good news? You might be able to fix it yourself before calling in the pros. But not all clogs are DIY-friendly—sometimes, trying to fix it yourself can make things worse. Here’s a quick guide on when to tackle it yourself and when it’s time to call Flint Plumbing.

DIY Fixes: What to Try First

1. Boiling Water (For Grease & Soap Buildup)

✅ Best for: Kitchen sinks clogged with grease or soap residue

🚫 Not for: PVC pipes (excess heat can damage them)

• Boil a full kettle of water and slowly pour it down the drain in stages.
• Wait a few minutes and test the drain.

2. Plunging (For Hair & Minor Blockages)

✅ Best for: Sinks, tubs, and showers

🚫 Not for: Toilets (use a flange plunger instead)

• Use a cup plunger (not the toilet plunger) and create a tight seal over the drain.
• Plunge vigorously for 20–30 seconds, then test the water flow.

3. Using a Professional Drain Cleaner

✅ Best for: Breaking down tough clogs caused by hair, soap, and grime

🚫 Not for: Fully blocked drains or standing water

• Choose an enzyme-based drain cleaner for a safer, long-term solution or a chemical drain cleaner for severe clogs.
  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Most require pouring the cleaner into the drain and waiting several hours before flushing with hot water.
  Avoid overuse, as some chemical cleaners can damage pipes. If the clog persists, it may be time to call a plumber.

(Source: Bob Vila, Best Drain Cleaners of 2024 Bob Vila)

What is a P-Trap & When to Check It?

Your P-trap is the curved pipe under your sink. Its job is to catch debris and prevent sewer gases from coming up. Sometimes, it holds onto clogs, especially hair, soap, and small objects (hello, lost earring!).

How to Clean Your P-Trap:

1. Place a bucket under the trap to catch water.
2. Unscrew the slip nuts by hand or with pliers.
3. Remove the trap and clear out any debris.
4. Reattach the trap and run water to test.

(Source: The Spruce, How to Unclog a Drain The Spruce)

When to Call a Plumber

🚨 Skip the DIY & Call Flint Plumbing if:

• Water backs up in multiple drains at once.
• There’s a sewage smell (could be a main line issue).
• You’ve tried DIY methods, but the drain is still slow.
• The P-trap is clear, but water won’t drain at all.

📞 Need help? Call Flint Plumbing for fast, reliable service. We’ll get your drain flowing without the hassle.

Liability Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Flint Plumbing is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from DIY plumbing repairs. If you’re unsure or the clog persists, call a licensed professional.

Sources:

The Spruce. How to Unclog a Drain

Bob Vila. Best Drain Cleaners of 2024

Family Handyman. Plumbing Repair Tip