Most homeowners have experienced clogged drains in the sink or shower at some point. While some clogs can be easily fixed with a DIY remedy, severe blockages will require a visit from a plumber. The following guide details what you can do yourself and when you need a professional to deal with the problem.

What Can You Do to Try to Fix a Clogged Drain?

When you’re trying to fix a clog yourself, it’s important to preserve the condition of your pipes. Avoid using a drain cleaner, as the chemicals can be harmful to the piping and cause future leaks and damage.

Mild clogs in metal pipes can be cured with a pot of boiling water. Pouring the liquid slowly down the drain will loosen the materials and eventually eliminate the blockage. Repeat the process if you see progress but your sink is still draining slowly.

If the boiling water doesn’t work, try a plunger or drain snake. A flat head version should be used for sinks—as opposed to the rounded head plungers for toilets—and will loosen the clog. Drain snakes are to be used on smaller pipes—like sink piping—and will pull the clog out of the drain.

When Should You Have a Plumber Fix a Clog?

If multiple DIY methods don’t fix the clog, you'll need to call a plumber. Even if you have a snake or other tools, plumbers know the right techniques for using this equipment and often have the highest quality versions. 

They also know how to clean out the trap, the U-shaped pipe under the sink. This process involves unscrewing the joints, so it's best done by a professional to ensure no damage.

If a clog is causing a sink or shower to overflow, skip the DIY fix and go straight to the professionals. Timely intervention can prevent water damage to furniture, fixtures, and the house itself.

Additionally, evaluate your time and how critical the drain is to everyday life. If you have a busy schedule that won’t allow you to tinker with DIY fixes, or it’s a drain that’s used daily, like the kitchen sink, it’s probably best to call the plumber to get the problem fixed quickly. 

Finally, if all the drains in your house are clogged, it’s a bigger problem that can’t be fixed by yourself. This means the clog is in the main drain and needs to be handled by a professional.

Whether you're dealing with one or several clogged drains in your home, Murphy's Plumbing Company in Mebane, NC, will help. For over 30 years, these plumbers have helped homeowners throughout Orange, Alamance, and Durham counties with repairs, installations, and inspections. They'll carefully examine the plumbing to determine the source of the clog and use professional-grade equipment and techniques to restore the system's drainage. Call (919) 563-5165 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their services on their website.