Dealing with a clogged drain or floor drain backup

Clogged drains and floor drain backups happen for a variety of reasons, from hair and soap scum to grease buildup and blocked vents. Understanding the basics helps you act quickly without causing damage to your plumbing.

Step 1: assess the problem. If a single sink or tub is draining slowly, the issue is likely a local blockage. If multiple fixtures drain slowly or a floor drain backs up, the problem may involve a main line or the floor drain trap.

Step 2: try gentle, non-chemical methods first. Plunging can dislodge many clogs; use a cup plunger for sinks and toilets, and a flange plunger for floor drains. If the water backs up into a floor drain, remove the grate and try a small auger or plumber’s snake to clear a debris buildup near the trap.