We at [company_name] in Puyallup, WA, understand the frustration of a clogged drain. In some instances, you will need to contact a professional plumber. Sometimes, though, you may have a simple clog that you can easily take care of yourself.
There are many different methods for unclogging bathroom and kitchen sinks that will save you the expense of calling a professional. We have outlined the best methods below. If none of these methods is successful, you will at least know that you tried. At that point in time, we recommend calling for assistance.
Unclogging Your Drains Using Boiling Water
The least expensive, simplest, and easiest solution for your clogged drain is boiling water. We recommend trying this method first. Fill a pot or kettle with water, and then place it on your stove. Heat the water until it reaches a full boil. While waiting for your water to boil, find a small pot.
Use this pot to remove as much of the water in your sink as you can. You can simply empty your pot outside. Then, pour the boiling water into your sink. If the water does not move, let it cool. You may have to do this several times to dissolve your clog. Depending on what type of clog you have, we have found this process to be very effective.
The Plumber’s Snake
You may have a plumber’s snake in your home. Push the snake down the drain until you feel the clog. Keep pushing until you go through the clog. If you are unable to completely break through the clog, you may be able to loosen it enough to get it to move by pouring in more boiling water. If you do not have a snake, you can use a long, fairly thick piece of wire instead.
If you can get your wire down far enough to feel the clog, wiggle it around. If you are having consistent issues with a bathtub or shower drain becoming clogged or draining slowly, make certain that your drain has a screen. Screens will collect debris, including hair, to help prevent clogs. We highly recommend against pouring any sticky or thick liquids down your drains, such as paint or paint thinner.
Purchasing Products for Unclogging Drains
You can find products at your local hardware or grocery store that are created specifically for unclogging drains. Make certain that you follow the directions of the manufacturer on the product. You can even purchase products created to be “green.” The majority of these products contain harsh chemicals, however. Take care to ensure that none of the product gets into your eyes. If this happens, rinse your eyes with water immediately, and then seek medical attention.
Using Your Disposal for Clogs in Your Kitchen Sink
The issue may be your garbage disposal as opposed to an actual clog. If your disposal becomes clogged, your sink will not drain. Running your garbage disposal may take care of your clog. Make certain that your disposal is operating correctly. If your disposal overheats, it can freeze to a halt. Look under your sink to find your disposal. There will be a reset switch under or on the side of your unit. Press this button, and then run your disposal again.
Natural Methods to Fix Your Drain
There are several natural methods you can try. Start by removing the water in your sink. Measure out one-half cup of salt, then pour it down your drain. Follow this with boiling water. Let everything sit for a couple of minutes, and then run your hot water to flush out the mixture. Another solution is salt and baking soda. Combine one-half cup of salt with one cup of baking soda.
Pour the mixture down your drain. Let everything sit for a couple of hours. Then, pour boiling water down your drain to flush out the clog. The final method is pouring one cup of baking soda down your drain. Add one cup of either apple cider or white vinegar. Wait until your mixture has stopped bubbling. Place a stopper in your drain, and then let it sit for approximately 15 minutes.
Run the hot water to clear out your clog. See if the clog clears. Please note that you need to remove the water in your sink before you use any of these methods. You may need to repeat your chosen method again if your drain has not cleared.
The Handy Plunger
One of the easiest solutions to a clogged drain is your plunger. If the clog is in a double sink, use a stopper or a wet cloth to plug one side. Place your plunger into the side of your sink with the clog. Make certain that your plunger has a tight seal. You can accomplish this by ensuring that the bell of your plunger is completely covered by water.
Firmly grip your plunger, then plunge hard several times. When your clog releases, you will hear a suction sound. Take out your plunger, and then use warm water to thoroughly flush your drain. Remove the stopper or wet cloth from the other side.
Your P-Trap
The drain in your kitchen has a P-trap. This may need to be cleaned out to remove your clog. Look under your sink for a curve in your drainpipe. This is where your P-trap is located. Put a bucket under your drain to ensure that any debris or water falling out is caught. Loosen and remove your P-trap from the pipe. Then, remove anything that has become stuck. Replace your P-trap and turn on your faucet to flush your pipes.
If you have tried these methods without success, we recommend calling a professional plumber to clear out your drain. There are certain types of clogs you may not be able to remove without professional assistance.
Avoiding Clogs By Ensuring That Your Sink Is Clean
You can ensure that your sinks are clean with a fresh smell while helping to prevent clogs. Pour one-half cup of baking soda and vinegar down your drains regularly. Allow everything to sit for a couple of minutes. Then, run some warm water. You can add a little lemon juice for a nice scent. There are also ways to help prevent clogs.
For instance, never overload the garbage disposal in your kitchen. Instead, gradually place the items into your disposal a little at a time. Do not add anything else until everything has been completely ground. We recommend against putting any type of oil, coffee grounds, or bacon grease down your disposal, as doing so may result in a clog. When you have finished using your garbage disposal, run the water for a few minutes. Understanding how to care for your plumbing will prevent a lot of issues while helping your pipes to run efficiently and smoothly.
Professional Plumbers
Professional plumbers are available at [company_name] in Puyallup, WA. We provide residential drain cleaning, pipe repair, and service for your water heater. We also offer commercial catch basins, grease traps, video and camera inspections, sewer services, floor drains, hydro jetting, drain field services, and maintenance.
Call us today for any of these services. We also provide septic tank pumping, installation, replacement, repair, maintenance, and inspections.
