I have a floor drain in my laundry room that seems to either be draining slowing or not at all, I took the grate/cover off and there's a rubber ball inside of it, this seems to be not allowing the water to flow into the drain. What is this all about and how can I fix it myself? Thanks

I have a floor drain in my laundry room that seems to either be draining slowing or not at all, I took the grate/cover off and there's a rubber ball inside of it, this seems to be not allowing the water to flow into the drain. What is this all about and how can I fix it myself? Thanks

That rubber ball is probably a Flood Guard, (see image) put there to prevent the floor drain from backing up in your basement. Remove the ball and send a small 1/4 or 3/8ths inch snake down the drain for 10 feet. Don't forget to fill the trap with water bow and then to prevent sewer gas from escaping. Good luck, Tom