How to Clear a Blocked Drain

A blocked drain is a common household headache that affects kitchens and bathrooms alike. In Canadian homes, hair, soap scum, grease, and food particles are the usual offenders. Most blockages can be resolved without calling a plumber, saving you the cost of a service call (typically CAD $150–$300).

In bathrooms, the primary cause is accumulated hair and soap residue. Kitchen drains are typically blocked by grease, food scraps, and coffee grounds. In older Canadian homes, tree root intrusion into sewer lines is also a possibility, particularly during spring thaw when roots seek moisture.

A plunger (cup-style for sinks, flange-style for toilets), a drain snake or zip-it tool (CAD $5–$15), baking soda and white vinegar, rubber gloves, and a bucket. Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they can damage older pipes and are harmful to septic systems.

1. Remove the drain cover or stopper and clear any visible debris.
2. Try the natural method first: pour 125 mL of baking soda followed by 125 mL of vinegar down the drain. Wait 15 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
3. If still blocked, use a plunger — create a tight seal over the drain, fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger cup, and pump vigorously 15–20 times.
4. For stubborn clogs, insert a drain snake into the pipe, turning the handle clockwise until you feel resistance. Push through and pull back to dislodge the blockage.
5. Run hot water for several minutes to flush the line clear.

If multiple drains are slow simultaneously, the blockage is likely in the main sewer line — this requires professional equipment. Recurring blockages in the same drain may indicate a structural issue such as a bellied pipe or root intrusion. A plumber with a camera inspection tool can identify the exact problem.