How To Fix a Clogged Sink Drain
If the kitchen sink won’t drain properly, trying to host the perfect family get-together becomes more stressful than usual. What can be done to fix this mess?
Start by checking the drain stopper to ensure no food or debris is caught that can be easily cleared to allow the water to drain. This can be a messy job but will save a huge headache!
If this doesn’t work, move on to these tips for drain cleaning!
Tip #1: Use Boiling Water
One old wives tale that does work for kitchen plumbing is boiling water and pouring it directly down a clogged drain with metal pipes to dissolve soap scum, grease, or food material that may be causing the clog. Depending on the size of the clog and how old the material is in the drain will determine if this method will be effective. Multiple uses of this method may need to be used to clear the full extent of the problem.
Some materials that may be causing the clog, like hair, oils, fat, or dirt, may not be shaken loose enough from just pouring boiling water down the drain.
It is recommended not to use this idea if PVC pipes are present, as this could affect the integrity of the pipes.
Tip #2: Try the Old Fashioned Way
- Pour more boiling water down the drain
- Immediately pour 1 cup of baking soda, then 1 cup of water mixed with 1 cup of white vinegar
- Use the drain plug to cover the opening for 5 to 10 minutes
- Follow this up with pouring more boiling water down the drain after the waiting period
The mixture of baking soda, water, and vinegar will cause fizzing, bubbly chaos within the pipes that cause the clog to loosen up. Adding the additional boiling water causes pressure to build up in the system, which aids gravity in moving the debris through the pipes.
Tip #3: Call a Professional!
If all else fails, drain cleaning professionals are available to help! Drain snakes or augers can remove almost any size clog or obstruction from home pipes.
Some pros use hydro jets that use built-up water pressure to force the clog-free. This method is often quicker and more effective at clearing pipes than using drain snakes or augers and has the added benefit of clearing most of the debris from pipes that have built up over time, not just the clog.
About Force Plumbing and Heating LLC
Force Plumbing and Heating LLC is family-owned and operated, serving the Holmdel area with friendly, helpful, fully licensed, and insured technicians. Call them for service in Hazlet, NJ, when dealing with an unexpected plumbing or heating problem.
