Flush with boiling water to melt grease buildup

Boil a full kettle of water and pour it directly down the drain in two or three stages, waiting a few seconds between each pour. This melts grease, soap scum, and light organic buildup that causes slow drainage.

Why It Works

Grease solidifies as it cools inside pipes. Water at 100 degrees C re-liquefies grease and soap residue, allowing it to flow through and out of the drain system. The staged pouring gives each dose time to work on the clog.

Tips

• Do not use boiling water on PVC drain pipes -- the heat can soften joints and cause leaks; use very hot tap water instead
• Most effective as a preventive measure -- pour a kettle of boiling water down kitchen drains once a week to prevent grease accumulation
• This method alone will not clear hair clogs or solid blockages