A clogged drain can be a common household nuisance, and one of the primary culprits is hair accumulation. Over time, strands of hair can build up in the drain pipes, causing water to drain slowly or even become completely blocked. Dealing with a hair-clogged drain can be frustrating, but there are several effective solutions that can help you clear it out.
10 Effective Solutions for a Drain Clogged with Hair
In this blog post, we will discuss ten practical and accessible methods to tackle this issue and restore the smooth flow of water in your drain.
Use a Plunger
A plunger is a versatile tool that can help dislodge hair clogs. To use it, ensure there is enough water in the sink or tub to cover the rubber cup of the plunger. Place the plunger directly over the drain and vigorously plunge up and down several times. The suction created by the plunger will help loosen the hair clog, allowing water to flow freely.
Remove the Hair Manually
If you’re comfortable with some hands-on work, you can try removing the hair clog manually. Start by wearing a pair of gloves to protect your hands. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers or tweezers to reach into the drain and pull out the hair clog. It might take a few attempts, but this method is highly effective in clearing out the blockage.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar can form a powerful natural solution to dissolve hair clogs. Begin by pouring one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. The mixture will create a foaming reaction that helps break down the hair. Leave it for about 30 minutes, and then flush the drain with hot water. Repeat this process if necessary, and you should notice a significant improvement in the drain’s flow.
Boiling Water
One of the simplest and most straightforward methods to clear hair clogs is by using boiling water. Boil a large pot of water and carefully pour it down the drain in stages, allowing a few seconds between each pour. The hot water will help dissolve the accumulated hair and flush it away. Be cautious when handling boiling water to avoid burns, and ensure your drain pipes are heat-resistant to prevent damage.
Wire Hanger or Drain Snake
A wire hanger or a drain snake can be incredibly useful tools for removing hair clogs. Straighten a wire hanger and create a small hook at one end. Insert it into the drain and carefully pull out any hair that gets caught. Alternatively, you can use a drain snake, which is specifically designed for this purpose. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it to catch the hair. Slowly pull it out to remove the clog.
Wet and Dry Vacuum
If you have access to a wet and dry vacuum cleaner, it can be a powerful tool for unclogging drains. Set the vacuum to wet mode and cover the vent to create a seal. Position the nozzle over the drain and turn on the vacuum. The suction force will help pull out the hair clog. Be sure to clean the vacuum thoroughly afterward to avoid any unpleasant odors.
Enzymatic Drain Cleaners
Enzymatic drain cleaners are chemical products that use natural enzymes to break down organic matter, including hair. Follow the instructions on the product and pour it down the drain. Allow it to sit for the recommended time to dissolve the hair clog. Afterward, flush the drain with hot water to wash away the residue. Enzymatic cleaners are generally safer for your pipes compared to harsh chemical alternatives.
Plumbing Snake or Auger
For more stubborn hair clogs, a plumbing snake or auger can be effective. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it to break up the hair. Push it further into the pipe until you feel resistance, then rotate and pull it back to remove the clog. Repeat the process if necessary. Plumbing snakes are readily available in hardware stores and come in various lengths to suit different drain sizes.
Prevention is Key
To avoid future hair clogs, prevention is essential. Use drain covers or screens to catch hair before it enters the drain. Regularly clean and remove any hair from the covers to prevent buildup. Additionally, consider using a drain-cleaning product periodically to keep the pipes clear of debris. These preventive measures will significantly reduce the frequency of clogs and save you from the hassle of dealing with them.
Seek Professional Help
If all else fails or if you’re uncomfortable tackling the issue yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. They have the necessary tools and expertise to handle even the most stubborn hair clogs. While it may come with a cost, professional assistance can save you time, effort, and potential damage to your plumbing system in the long run.
Conclusion
Dealing with a drain clogged with hair can be frustrating, but with these ten effective solutions, you can tackle the problem head-on. From simple household tools to natural remedies and preventive measures, there is a solution for every situation. Remember, regular maintenance and proactive measures can help prevent hair clogs from occurring in the first place. If you need professional plumbers in Minneapolis you can contact Guy’s Sewer & Drain.
