Having a clogged sink drain is frustrating, but sometimes it can be an easy fix. If you have a clog that’s embedded deep in your pipes, though, you may need to call a plumber. However, for smaller clogs, you can temporarily fix the problem before making an appointment with a plumber. Here are some steps you can take when your sink drain is clogged.
1. Check for Any Visible Clogs
First, put on a pair of rubber gloves. Make sure the garbage disposal is off, and see if there’s anything blocking the blades. Remove any hard objects or leftover food. Try running the water again. If the water still doesn’t go down, try vinegar and baking soda.
2. Vinegar and Baking Soda
Mix one cup of baking soda with one cup of white vinegar, and pour the mixture down the drain. The mixture should bubble. After 15 minutes, pour boiling water down the drain. If your clog is minor, this should be enough to fix the problem. If this doesn’t fix the problem, move onto the next step. Consistently pouring vinegar down your drain is bad for your pipes, so try this method sparingly.
3. Use Your Plunger
Another way to unclog your sink drain is to use a plunger. If you have two sinks, close the other side with a stopper or a cloth. Then use the plunger on the open side. Place the plunger over the sink opening, and plunge hard several times. Debris should come up. If it does, throw the debris out, and rinse the sink with hot water.
4. Clean Your P-Trap
Still have a clog? The next step is to dismantle your P-trap and clean it. The P-trap is under your sink and is shaped like a curve. There should be a nut on the arm of the P-trap that you can unscrew. Once you unscrew the P-trap, check for any clogs, and clean the P-trap thoroughly.
5. Put a Snake Through Your Drain
You can also buy a snake for your drain from your local hardware store. This is a long piece of metal that you can thread through your drain and P-trap. Turn the snake clockwise into your drain until you hit the clog. If the snake gets hold of a clog, pull it back.
Some drain clogs signify a much deeper problem, and a DIY job may not fix the larger issue. If you’re still having problems with your sink drain, call a plumber. A professional plumber can inspect your pipes to see if the clog is in your main line. Plumbers can also use cameras to see inside your pipes and locate the clog.
If you need drain cleaning services in Lincoln, NE, contact Select Plumbing. We use safe drain-cleaning methods to ensure that your drains are clear.
