If you've ever had a blocked drain, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only does the blockage prevent water from flowing freely, but it can also cause unpleasant smells and create a breeding ground for bacteria. That is why it is essential to know how to clear a blocked drain without clearing your wallet. Here are some tips to help you get the job done.

1) Boiling water

Boiling water is one way to clear a blocked drain. If the blockage is near the top of the pipe, boiling water may be enough to clear it. Pour boiling water onto the blockage and wait for 5 minutes. If the blockage is still there, pour more boiling water onto it.

2) Natural cleaners

Natural cleaners such as vinegar and baking soda can also be used to clear a blocked drain. Pour vinegar or baking soda down the drain, followed by hot water. Wait for 30 minutes before flushing with cold water.

3) Caustic cleaners

Caustic cleaners such as bleach should only be used as a last resort because they can damage pipes. Put on gloves and mix 1 part bleach with 9 parts hot water. Pour this mixture down the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes before flushing with cold water.

4) Plunger

The plunger is one of the most common tools used to clear a blocked drain. Splash some water into the sink and place the plunger over the top of it so that it forms a seal. Push and pull on the plunger until you hear a gurgling sound coming from the drain. This means that the blockage has been cleared.

5) DIY drain snake

DIY drain snakes can be made from wire clothes hangers. Straighten out a wire clothes hanger and make a small hook at one end. Insert the wire into the drain and push it through until you feel resistance. This means that you have hit the blockage. Twist the wire around the blockage and pull it out.

6) Plumbers drain snake

Call a licenced plumber to clear your drain with a plumber's drain snake if the blockage is more severe. Plumbers drain snakes are a more expensive option, but they are more effective. They have a serrated head that can cut through almost anything.

7) CCTV

CCTV drain cameras can be used to locate the exact location of a blockage. First, a small camera is inserted into the drain and moved around until the blockage is found. Then, the camera sends a live feed to a monitor to see what is happening inside the pipe.

8) Hydro Jet

Hydro jets are high-pressure water cleaners that can be used to clear blocked drains. A small hose is inserted into the drain, and water is blasted through it at high pressure. This will clear the blockage and clean the pipe.

9) Excavation

Excavation is a last resort option and should only be done by a professional. Excavation involves digging up the pipe and clearing the blockage manually.

10) Pipe relining

Pipe relining is another last resort option that should only be done by a professional. Pipe relining involves inserting a new pipe into the old one. This new pipe will not have any holes or cracks so that water can flow through it freely.

There are many ways to clear a blocked drain without clearing your wallet. Try one of these methods the next time you have a blockage. If the problem persists, call a professional. They will be able to help you find the cause of the problem and fix it so that you don't have to worry about it again.