How to Clear a Choked Drain Pipe in Singapore

Homeowners need to be vigilant to clear choked drain pipes as this is a critical plumbing issue. Blocked drains can cause a lot of trouble and discomfort. The choked drain pipe in any home corner area can result in unpleasant odours and flooding. 

Therefore, it needs a prompt solution and quick action. You must be aware of the temporary solutions even before the plumber arrives. This article will provide an easy procedure to clear the choke in any drain pipe. 

How to Clear Choked Drain Pipe?

A choked drain pipe is a continuous headache until resolved. The problem worsens for you if you are unsure about the possible remedy. In Singapore, the weather is generally hot and humid and causes accumulation of debris in the drain pipes. This results in clogging of the drain lines. Before you start to fix choked drain pipes, you should identify the issue and arrange the right tools. 

Identifying the Cause of the Blockage

Before you attempt to clean a choked drain pipe, it’s essential to identify its cause. Common culprits are different for different drain pipes. For instance, it can be hair and soap scum in bathrooms, food particles in kitchens and foreign objects like tissues, small toys, and even tree roots blocking the outdoor pipes. 

Identifying the main reason is the first step in solving the issue. LS Plumber Singapore is a well-known plumbing service that offers services like drain cleaning, clearing clogged drains and drainage pipe chokes. They have laid down a step-by-step process to clear clogged drain pipes. 

Method 1: Using Hot Water and Dish Soap

If there is a minor clog and the reasons are grease and soap scum, you can try this simple method. The method uses boiled water and dish soap to clear choke drain pipes. Pour some dishwashing soap down the line. Follow this step with boiling water, but ensure you pour the boiling water slowly and steadily to clear the clog and avoid damaging the pipe. This method is successful against minor clogs and flushes away minor debris. 

The soap breaks the clog, and water takes it away. If the problem persists, you may need to repeat the process several times. However, you should avoid pouring boiled water if the drain pipe is made of PVC, as it will damage the pipe. Alternatively, use the normal hot tap water to clear the choked drain pipes. 

Method 2: Plunger

A plunger is a common plumbing tool which extremely effective in cleaning clogs in the drains. Ensure there is sufficient water in the sink or bathtub to put the plunger’s rubber cup. Place the plunger on the drain and ensure a tight seal. 

Repeatedly push down and pull up to maintain the seal and cause suction. This suction pressure will break the clog, and when it dislodges, open the water tap and check if it drains normally. Use separate plungers for kitchen and bathroom drains.

Method 3: Baking Soda and Vinegar

The natural solution containing baking soda and vinegar is an effective way to break down organic clogs. These clogs usually occur in the kitchen drains. First, pour a half cup of baking soda and follow it up with a half cup of vinegar. 

The mixture will react and create bubbles to break down the clog. Let the solution do its work for about half an hour and then pour hot water. This will flush the clogs in the drain line. This method is equally effective for all kinds of drain pipes. 

Method 4: Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is a tool used for stubborn clogs. This tool reaches deep into the drain lines and clears the blockages. Put the plumbing snake into the choked drain and push it until you feel resistance. Turn the handle in a clockwise direction to break the clog. 

Pull the plumbing snake out of the drain containing the debris. Run hot water tap to clear choked drain pipe. This is a method that can clear all kinds of clogs. However, you need to be careful while pushing it down the pipe to avoid damaging the pipe. 

Method 5: Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical cleaners are kept as the last option to clear drain clogs due to their harsh nature. They are quite effective in dislodging tough blockages. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and follow proper safety protocols to avoid any issues. 

You have to pour the cleaner into the line and let it sit for some time. Run plenty of water into the drain, remove the clog, and afterwards, the chemical residue. However, it is recommended not to use chemical solutions in damaged or old pipes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you should clear a choked drain pipe promptly to avoid floods of water in your home. You can adopt different solutions and apply plumbing tools to clear the clog. Check your pipe type and condition and select the right remedy to clear the clog. Hot or boiling water is mandatory in almost all solutions. Timely countering the issue can keep the home healthy and free from foul odours. 

Frequently Asked Questions