Tips and Advice

Help, Drain Doctor! What do I do?

Sinks

• Try plunging the drain: if the sink has an overflow, stuff it with a wet rag to ensure adequate suction. Place the plunger cup over the drain and run water until it covers the cup. Plunge rapidly up and down. Once the obstruction is clear, run hot water for 2 minutes to dissolve any buildup.
• Call the Drain Doctor toll free at 1-866-934-5156 for professional, reliable service.

Toilets

• If your toilet is plugged, use a plunger before calling a professional. Use a lifting motion rather than trying to “push” the obstruction. Plunge up and down 15-20 times.
• If the toilet is till plugged, run your vanity basin tap. If water “gurgles” in the toilet, this indicates that the toilet may need to be removed in order to release the obstruction.
• Call the Drain Doctor toll free at 1-866-934-5156 and put your mind at rest.
• If your toilet needs to be replaced, you may be eligible for a replacement grant! Call (306) 694-3900 or visit the Saskatchewan Watershed website for more info.

Shower/Bath

• Most clogs here are caused by hair. Use a piece of stiff wire to retrieve obstructions. Don’t lose the wire down the drain!
• Try plunging the drain. Block the overflow drain opening with a wet rag to ensure adequate suction. Place the plunger cup over the drain and run water until it covers the cup. Plunge rapidly up and down. Once the obstruction is clear, run hot water for 2 minutes to dissolve any buildup.
• Call the Drain Doctor toll free at 1-866-934-5156 and breathe a sigh of relief. Professional help is on the way.

Laundry/ Floor Drains

• First determine if the water is coming from the washing machine or from the sewer line.
• If it’s relatively clean, soapy water, it’s likely caused by an obstruction in the washing machine. Check the floor drain and the connecting drain and clear any debris that might be inhibiting the water flow.
• If it’s sewage water backing up your drain, locate your main clean-out and have a look. If there is water in the drain, there’s probably a blockage in the line to the street. Call your local municipality:
  • In Saskatoon, call the 24-hour hotline at 975-2476 or link online to their emergency tip page.
  • In North Battleford, call the engineering clerk at 445-1730 during business hours, or their after hours emergency line at 441-7078
  • In Prince Albert, call 953-4340 during business hours, or their after-hours emergency line at 953-4284
• If the municipality is unable to respond to your situation, call the Drain Doctor toll free at 1-866-934-5156. The Drain Doctor has over 20 years of expertise in drain service, cleaning and maintenance.