Garages aren’t just for cars anymore! They can be your workspace, gym, or hangout spot. But with all these uses, it’s smart to have a floor drain to deal with spills or leaks. However, be aware that this drain can get clogged with dirt and other stuff.

Clearing a Clogged Drain

Most times, fixing a clogged garage drain is simple. You just need to remove the grate, get rid of any debris, and flush it out with hot water. Easy-peasy!

Types of Garage Drains

You’ll mainly find two types of drains in garages. The round floor drain is pretty standard and easy to spot – it’s a round hole about a foot wide. Then there’s the trench drain, a longer, rectangular one that’s a bit fancier and less likely to clog.

Dealing with Round and Trench Drains

Round drains are common and cheap, usually found smack in the middle of your garage. Trench drains, on the other hand, are a bit more upscale. They’re longer, sit near the door or corners, and are less prone to clogging. No matter what kind you have, the cleaning process is generally the same.

Unclogging Steps

If your garage drain is backing up, here’s what to do:
Find the drain (it should be where the floor slopes).
Remove the grate covering it.
Check for blockages (grab some gloves and a flashlight).
Clear out the gunk with a tool like a screwdriver.
Flush it with hot water (skip the chemicals).
Put the grate back and keep an eye on it.

Common Causes of Clogs

Watch out for leaves, pet hair, paper products, grease, and cold temperatures – these are usual suspects for clogs. Keeping your garage tidy and a bit warm can prevent these issues.

You might also like: Debunking Common Commercial Plumbing Myths

When to Call Drain Express

If you’ve tried everything and the drain is still clogged, it’s time to call in the pros at Drain Express. They’ll sort out any bigger plumbing issues you might have.

If you’re in the Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, and beyond area and need help with your water heater, call Drain Express. We’re here for repairs, installations, or to provide a free estimate.