10 Easy Steps to Unclog a Drain or Pipe

If you’re like most people, at some point you will need to unclog a drain or pipe. Whether it’s in your home or business, clogs can cause all sorts of problems if left untreated. In this blog post, we will give you step-by-step instructions on how to unclog a drain or pipe, as well as the tools you will need to do so.

For more information about plumbing equipment and how to rent the tools you’ll need in Hampton or Portsmouth, New Hampshire, contact the tool experts at Tri-Rent-All!

Drains & Pipes Are Prone to Clogs from Hair, Food, Dirt & Debris

Naturally, over time, hair, food, dirt, and other debris will start to accumulate within our pipes, causing them to not properly drain. Even though we may not notice the build-up, these clogs can cause more severe, permanent damage if not unclogged and repaired quickly.

How to Unclog a Drain or Pipe in 10 Simple Steps

Although it is recommended, you usually do not always need a trained professional to clear out clogs from your plumbing, especially if you rent the right equipment. To unclog a drain or pipe in your home or business, follow these 10 simple steps:

Step 1: Unplug Any Power Cords & Turning Off the Water Supply

Before unclogging your drain or pipe, unplug any power cords and turn off the water supply. This is done to ensure that no accidents or incidents occur during the unclogging process.

Step 2: Gather Your Plumbing Equipment, Supplies, & Tools

You will need a few supplies and tools to unclog your drain or pipe, including a plunger and drain snake. Depending on the type of clog you have, you may also need a drain-unblocking chemical, as well as gloves and safety glasses.

If you do not currently own these tools, we offer a variety of hand snakes and plumbing equipment for rent in Hampton & Portsmouth, NH. To view our full selection, visit our website or contact us for an updated rental list.

Step 3: Remove the Drain Cover

To gain access to the pipe and unclog it, remove the drain cover by using a screwdriver or an adjustable wrench to loosen up the screws. By doing so, you will be able to have a full view of the clog.

Step 4: Locate the Clog

The best way to fully repair a clogged drain is to begin at the source. If the clog is not directly visible for you, insert a drain snake into the opening and slowly work it down until you feel the resistance from the clog.

Step 5: Begin to Unclog the Pipe with a Plunger or Drain Snake

Once you have located the clog, use either a plunger or drain snake to unclog it. If using a plunger, be sure to completely cover the drain opening with the plunger head, creating a seal to build pressure and unclog the pipe. If using a snake, slowly uncoil the snake to unclog the pipe.

Step 6: Remove the Clog Until the Drain is Flowing Again

Continue unclogging the pipe until the water starts to flow through, signifying that the clog has been unblocked. Since the water supply should have been shut off before you began unclogging the pipe, you will need to turn the water back on to complete this step.

Step 7: Clean Up & Disinfect All Surrounding Areas

Once unclogging the pipe is complete, make sure to clean up any debris or dirt around the drain. If a chemical was used in step 5, rinse it with water and scrub the area to ensure all traces of chemicals are gone.

Step 8: Reattach the Drain Cover Using Screws

Using the screwdriver or adjustable wrench, reattach the drain cover securely to ensure no dirt or debris enters the pipe. Once you have completed this step, the unclogging process should be complete.

Step 9: Test the Drain & Make Sure It Is Flowing Properly

Now that the unclogging process is complete, if you have not done so already, turn the water supply back on and test the drain to make sure it is draining properly. For clogged showers, make sure to run the water for a few seconds to make sure the unclogging was successful.

Step 10: Continue to Check Daily for Any Residual Build-Up

Even though you have now successfully unclog your drain, it is important to check it daily for any residual build-up. This will ensure that the unclog lasts and your plumbing remains unblocked. If you notice that the water begins having difficulty draining again, it is best to contact a professional to check for any additional issues.

Prevent Clogged Drains & Pipes with Routine Maintenance

The next time you are faced with unclogging a pipe or drain, make sure you are prepared and have the necessary tools. At Tri-Rent-All, we carry a variety of plumbing tools and equipment for rent in Hampton & Portsmouth, NH. From plungers to hand snakes, we have the necessary equipment you need to unclog your drains and pipes at daily or 4-hour rates. Visit our website to view our available inventory, or fill out our contact form to reach out directly to one of our team members for further assistance.

10 Easy Steps to Unclog a Drain or Pipe & Restore Plumbing