How to Unclog a Drain — And When to Call a Plumber

A slow or clogged drain is one of the most common household plumbing problems — and one of the most frustrating. Before you call a plumber, there are a few things you can try yourself. But there are also situations where DIY attempts make things worse.

Start With the Simplest Fix

Before reaching for chemicals, try a plunger. A cup plunger works well on sinks and tubs. Create a tight seal and use firm, rapid up-and-down strokes for about 30 seconds. If water starts draining, you're done.

Try a Drain Snake

A hand-cranked drain snake can reach clogs 15–25 feet down the pipe that a plunger can't touch. Insert it slowly, turn the crank, and when you feel resistance, work it back and forth to break up or hook the clog. You can pick one up at any hardware store for around $20–$30.

What NOT to Do

Avoid chemical drain cleaners like Drano or Liquid-Plumr. They can provide temporary relief but the harsh chemicals corrode your pipes over time — especially in older homes. They're also dangerous to handle and bad for the environment.

Signs It's Time to Call a Pro

If the clog comes back within a few days, multiple drains are slow at the same time, you hear gurgling from other fixtures, or you smell sewage — stop DIYing. These are signs of a deeper problem in your main drain line that requires professional equipment.

What We'll Do

When you call Ace Pelizon, we diagnose first. For a simple clog, a professional rooter service clears it completely. For recurring blockages, hydrojetting uses high-pressure water to scour the pipe walls clean. We tell you exactly what we find and what it costs before we do any work.

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