2007-01-03 15:42:32 · 8 answers · asked by clickdraw 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
If the magnet idea doesn't work, check your local hardware store and see if there are "mechanical fingers" over two feet long. If your drain is pvc, the magnet method should bail you out.
2007-01-03 17:01:10 · answer #1 · answered by Bikerbutt 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It all depends on what the drain was originally for, and the size of the drain. If it is a toilet drain, the pipe size would be 3" or 4", and the pipe drops vertically, then turns 90 degrees, and runs just a short distance horizontally, then turns down again vertically, before turning again, as it dumps into the main sewer. If it was for a tub or shower, it would be a 2" pipe, with a p-trap at the bottom. If it was a sink drain, then it would be a 2" pipe with a 90 degree elbow at the bottom. A 6" file could make it through any of these offsets, thus making it difficult to retrieve objects. The magnet is a good idea, if you have plastic pipe, but it won't work on cast iron pipe. If your house is on a slab, it makes it difficult getting to your pipes. Good luck to you!
2007-01-03 18:25:11 · answer #2 · answered by poppyman54 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It partly depends on how far it actually fell. The pipe may be 2', but did the file catch on something on the way down?
If the pipe is galvinized or iron, the magnet will probably not work. It will stick to the side of the pipe.
I think you may need to go under the dain and start taking pipes apart. I would not leave this since it is likely to lead to a clog in the drain. It would take years, if not decades for it to rust away too.
2007-01-03 18:06:09 · answer #3 · answered by DSM Handyman 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you don't have a magnet just remove the drain trap. The file should fall out. If it is caught in the drain you can push it up with a long screwdriver or other object until you can grab it and pull it out. Forceps or long nosed pliers may work as well. The old bubble gum on a stick or other variations might do the trick too.
2007-01-03 17:30:55 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Srtong magnet on a broom stick. Autoparts stores also sell magnets on a telescoping arm in case someone drops something down into the engine.
2007-01-03 15:46:01 · answer #5 · answered by Julie c 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A magnet on the end of a telescoping rod. You can pick one up at a local auto parts store.
2007-01-03 15:47:08 · answer #6 · answered by cptdrinian 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
TIE A STRING ON A MAGNET AND SLIDE DOWN THE HOLE.
HOPE THE MAGNET IS STRONG ENOUGH TO RETRIEVE.
IF NOT TRY USEING A SEVICE U USE TO GET THINGS OFF A HIGH SHELVE CALLED A GRIPPER.
2007-01-03 15:47:42 · answer #7 · answered by john t 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Get a mechanics mirror from "Ace" hardware or "Home Depot"
2007-01-03 23:30:33 · answer #8 · answered by cowboydoc 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋