Clearing Clogged Drain

[jmich001]

Q1: [Imputed question] how can a clog in a through hull drain be cleared?

BACKSTORY: On a 2021 170 DAUNTLESS the small drain behind the aft quarter seat is clogged. The water builds up behind the seat cushion.

[jimh]

Generally the method to clear a clog in a drain on a boat must be done mechanically. You cannot use harsh chemical solvents.

[Phil T]

Look at the owners manual so you can identify where the drain daylights.

If you haven't got it - You can download it from Whaler here:

https://www.bostonwhaler.com/content/dam/boston-whaler/technical/owners-manuals/BW-170-DAUNTLESS-2021-OWNERS-MANUAL.pdf

Use an unfolded metal coat hanger. Round off the tip so it is not sharp. Spray some water to drain the debris as you go.

[Tom Hemphill]

Use an unfolded metal coat hanger.

Some readers may be confused by the reference. I think Phil T is referring to the steel wire coat hangers which dry cleaners put your clothes on when returning. I have to say, in my household, over the past twenty years they have become an endangered species. I only have one or two left, and they have been converted into drain-clearing tools.

[Jefecinco]

A simple drain clog removal tool is available at Lowes or Home Depot, is inexpensive, is easy to use, and can be retained for future use. It is an approximately two-foot-long by 3/8-inch-wide flexible barbed plastic strip which can be inserted into a drain and pulled back out. The barbs catch on debris and remove it as the tool is withdrawn. It's primary purpose is to clear sink "U" drains of hair but may be useful in your case.

It is called a "Zip-it" made by Cobra Products, SKU 88712000400