Clearing a Clogged Sink

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Does your sink drain extremely slowly, filling the basin with dirty standing water? Many of the back-ups originate from the trap, which is the U-shaped pipe underneath the fixture that helps stop sewer gases from leaking into your home. Although the curved pipe can get backed up, those drain blocks can often be easily fixed.

Flush Slow-Draining Kitchen Sink with Hot Water

If you tend to rinse off food residue in your kitchen sink, it can leave a lot of grease buildup in the drainage pipes, especially if the drain is connected to your garbage disposal. Pour a tablespoon of dish soap and a large pot of boiling water into the drain. The hot water should break up the grease, dissolving enough to unclog the sink.

Never Add Water to Completely Blocked Drain

If you have standing water in your sink that will not drain at all, do not add more water to the basin. That added water pressure will not flush out the blockage.

No Caustic Chemicals

Chemical drain cleaners can soften PVC pipes and may even damage older metal pipes. They can also cause personal harm if splashed onto your skin or eyes. Consider using a biodegradable drain cleaner that uses enzymes to get rid of clogs. They may not work as fast, but they are much safer.

Check the Stopper/Strainer

If you are having trouble with your bathroom sink, it may be because of hair wrapping around the strainer and trapping soap scum. Loosen a clog such as this by bending a sturdy wire to form a hook at one end. Remove the stopper and insert the wire into your sink drain, twist, and pull the blockage out.

Try Plunging Light Clogs

Standard cup plungers can often loosen light drainpipe clogs. Make sure the sink has a few inches of water in the basin and block the overflow drain with a wet rag to keep the water from leaking out. Then firmly plunge the sink drain.

Call Your Plumber

If these easy methods do not fix the issue, you may have a more serious clog in your drainage system. A professional plumber can utilize tools to clear the drain properly.

Joseph Frederick & Sons

If you Are confronted with a sewer problem, the solution is as simple as contacting Joseph Frederick & Sons. Our licensed plumbers are highly experienced, extensively trained, and will not only fix your problem but help you avoid difficulties in the future. No one is more qualified to deliver the help you need. Contact us!