Expert Q&A for How to Unclog Pipes

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How do you unclog a shower drain by yourself?

James Schuelke
Professional Plumber
James Schuelke, along with his twin brother David, is the co-owner of the Twin Home Experts, a licensed plumbing, leak detection, and mold inspection company based in Los Angeles, California. James has over 32 years of home service and business plumbing experience and has expanded the Twin Home Experts to Phoenix, Arizona and the Pacific Northwest.

James Schuelke

Professional Plumber

Expert Answer

I recommend using a wet/dry vacuum, as it can extract organic matter like hair and soap scum. Take the drain cover off the shower, put the vacuum hose right up against the drain, and turn it on. That should extract anything clogging the drain.

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Question

Can a wet/dry vac unclog a drain?

James Schuelke
Professional Plumber
James Schuelke, along with his twin brother David, is the co-owner of the Twin Home Experts, a licensed plumbing, leak detection, and mold inspection company based in Los Angeles, California. James has over 32 years of home service and business plumbing experience and has expanded the Twin Home Experts to Phoenix, Arizona and the Pacific Northwest.

James Schuelke

Professional Plumber

Expert Answer

Yes, you can use your wet/dry vac to unclog a drain. Hold the opening of the nozzle over the drain to suck out the clog. If nothing comes up, push the nozzle as far into the drain as it will go. Hopefully, this will dislodge the clog.

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Question

What is the best home remedy for clogged drains?

James Schuelke
Professional Plumber
James Schuelke, along with his twin brother David, is the co-owner of the Twin Home Experts, a licensed plumbing, leak detection, and mold inspection company based in Los Angeles, California. James has over 32 years of home service and business plumbing experience and has expanded the Twin Home Experts to Phoenix, Arizona and the Pacific Northwest.

James Schuelke

Professional Plumber

Expert Answer

Sucking out the clog with a wet/dry vac is a great option, but you can also use a homemade snake. If you prefer pouring a solution down your drain, try a vinegar-baking soda mixture. Pour the mixture down the drain to help flush the clog.

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Question

How would you remove a stubborn clog from a pipe?

David Balkan
Professional Plumber
David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award.

David Balkan

Professional Plumber

Expert Answer

For a homeowner, try using a snake that's the correct size of your pipe, or you could use a plunger or a non-motorized augur. If that doesn't work, call a professional—they can use things like high-pressure water jets, air pressure guns, or blow bags to cut through whatever's blocking the pipe.

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