Is your kitchen sink stopped up? Is it making gurgling sounds when you try to use it? These are telltale signs of a clogged sink drain. While it can be frustrating dealing with a kitchen sink that’s draining slowly, it’s a common household issue that can easily be tackled. Here’s a step-by-step guide to unstopping a kitchen sink and getting your water to flow freely again.
Assess the situation:
Before jumping in, you must determine how severe the clogged sink is. By determining whether you have a garbage disposal blockage or checking to see why the kitchen sink won’t drain, you’ll be able to equip yourself with the tools needed to be able to choose the right approach.
Simple solutions:
- Boiling water: Sometimes hot water is all you need to help with a stopped up sink and melt away any built up grease and clear your blockage. Boil a pot of water and carefully pour it down the drain. Repeat if necessary.
- Baking soda & vinegar: This will unclog the kitchen sink due to the combination of chemicals. Pour about 1 cup baking soda down the clogged kitchen sink drain, followed by about 1 cup white vinegar. Then follow up by pouring hot water down the drain.
- Plunger: This reliable tool works to dislodge clogged up sinks. Fill the sink with a few inches of water and use a cup plunger to create suction and pressure. Plunge vigorously for a few seconds, then release and repeat.
- Snaking: This flexible cable comes with a hooked end that will reach deeper clogs and can be an amazing tool to grab when your kitchen sink is not draining. Insert the snake carefully down the drain, turning the handle to grip the clog and pull it out.
- Drain cleaner: Follow the label instructions carefully. Pour the drain cleaner down and wait an hour to try to run the water. These chemicals can be harsh on pipes, so it shouldn’t be your go-to method every time you’re dealing with a kitchen sink that is stopped up.
Know when to call a plumber:
If these simple solutions fail and the sink is not draining still, then it may be time to contact a professional plumber. They have the specialized tools and expertise needed to diagnose the problem and unclog even the most stubborn blockages. If you suspect a broken pipe or damage to your plumbing system or notice foul odors even after unclogging, then do not hesitate to call a professional.
Preventative Measures:
You can keep your kitchen sink clear by avoiding pouring grease or oil down the drain. Try pouring it into a separate container and dispose of it properly. It’s important to make sure that if you ever experience a clogged sink with garbage disposal, that a part of the aftercare will be routinely cleaning your garbage disposal by running it with items like citrus peels to clean the blades and freshen the scent. By regularly scheduling professional maintenance, you can also ensure healthy pipes and prevent future clogs.
Are you facing the frustrating dilemma of a kitchen sink not draining? Whether your sink was clogged due to accumulated debris or simply stopped up unexpectedly, we understand how frustrating it can be and we specialize in resolving these issues. By assessing the situation and attempting simple solutions, it will help you determine whether to call in a professional. At FloHawks, our team of experienced plumbers can easily tackle a blocked kitchen sink. Have no fear, FloHawks is here! When in doubt, don’t hesitate to call us in need. Don’t let a stopped up kitchen sink disrupt your day!
