A blocked drain is a terrible inconvenience. Unfortunately, there are a number of different reasons why drains get clogged. You have food scraps, plastic residues, fats, oil, and grease. Even soap scums other hygiene products are also among the primary reasons for drain blockages. These causes tend to buildup over time along with hair ad dirt. Now, once you encounter a blocked drain, there are a number of home remedies you can try in order to get rid of the clog.
Just bear in mind though that most licensed plumbers get called regarding simple plumbing issues that became worse due to the homeowner’s tampering. So, if you think that your plumbing issue requires more skills and technical equipment than you can give, be sure to contact a licensed plumber.
Once you encounter a clogged drain there is an unconventional method that you can use to help unclog your drain – this method is using cola. Yes, you’ve read it right, cola! Either Coke or Pepsi will be great in removing a clog. Even Diet Coke!
Diet Coke for Unblocking Drain
Have you heard about how a glass of cola can dissolve a nail over time? Well, although we know this is a bit of an exaggeration, we all know that cola is perhaps better that most commercial chemical anti-clog formulas, because it contains strong dissolving ingredients.
Phosphoric acid, one of the components of diet Coke is commonly used by the construction industry to remove cement smears and mineral deposits. Thus, it is believed that sodas like Coke and Pepsi are able to remove even calcium buildup inside pipes.
Advantages and Disadvantages
One of the great advantages to using Diet Coke or Pepsi is that they are completely safe. Unlike Hydrochloric or Muriatic acid, they will not cause skin irritation and burns when they get in contact with your skin and eyes. It also does not produce foul smell and does not require too many precautions. You can buy it in almost any convenience stores near you.
A disadvantage of using Coke or Pepsi though is that it takes a longer amount of time to work. Hydrochloric acid or those with highly corrosive ingredients can remove clogs much faster. As for soda, you may have to let it sit in the drain for about 24 hours if you have a stubborn blog.
How to Use Coke or Pepsi to Unclog A Drain
To get started, purchase 2 liters of either Diet Coke or Pepsi. If you got your soda from a fridge, allow it to sit and adjust to room temperature. Once it reaches the right temperature, pour it down the drain and allow it to fizz. Let it sit in the pipes for about an hour or two, while you heat or boil water.
After 1 to 2 hours, if your pipes are made of metal or iron flush the drain with boiling water. If your pipes are made of PVC, pouring hot (not boiling) water will do. If the flow of water is still slow, repeat the process. If clog is persistent, then you may have to allow the soda to sit in the drain for 24 hours before flushing with boiling or hot water.
If after all of these, you still haven’t removed the clog, then it may be time for a licensed emergency plumber in Melbourne to step in. It may seem like a simple clog to the untrained eye, however, there may be an underlying issue that needs the attention of a professional.
Remember for any emergency plumbing Melbourne such as blocked toilets, drains or if you need drain cleaning in Melbourne, contact us on 0412 738 874 or you can leave a message on our contact form.
