Clogged kitchen sinks can cause serious problems. If left untreated, it can cause slow drainage, foul smells, and even water damage. Unclogging a kitchen drain is easy and can be done by yourself with the right tools. We’ll give you some helpful tips and tricks to unclog your kitchen sink.
Identify the Root Cause of the Clog
Before you can unclog your kitchen sink, it is important to determine the source of the blockage. This will allow you to determine the best way to clear it. Food scraps, grease and soap residue are all common causes of a blocked kitchen sink. It is possible that food particles may build up in your garbage disposal.
Method 1: Plunger
A plunger is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to unclog your kitchen sink. Begin by removing the strainer or sink stopper and then fill the sink with enough water that it covers the plunger. To create a vacuum, cover the overflow hole with a damp cloth. Next, place the plunger on the drain and pump it vigorously up and down several times. Continue this process until you clear the clog.
Method 2: Baking Soda, Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are another popular way to unclog a kitchen sink. To soften any soap or grease, pour a pot full of boiling water down your drain. Next, pour half a quart of baking soda and half a quart of vinegar down your drain. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes before covering the drain with a damp cloth. Pour another pot of boiling water down your drain to clear the blockage.
Method 3: The Plumbing Snake
A plumbing snake may be necessary if the clog doesn’t move or is very stubborn. Begin by removing the strainer or sink stopper and inserting your snake into the drain. Slowly rotate the handle clockwise to insert the snake into drain. To remove the clog, turn it counterclockwise. After clearing the clog, take the snake out and flush any debris down the drain.
Avoid future clogs
After clearing your kitchen sink of clogs, you should take preventative steps to avoid future ones. These are some tips that will help you keep your sink running smoothly.
- Do not pour oil or grease down the toilet. Instead, let the oil cool down and then throw it away in the trash.
- To catch food scraps, and other debris, use a sink strainer.
- To dissolve soap residue, run hot water down the drain after every use.
- Regular cleaning of your garbage disposal will prevent accumulation.
Conclusion
It doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive to unclog a kitchen sink. You can clear most clogs yourself using a plunger or baking soda and vinegar. You can prevent future clogs and keep your kitchen sink working smoothly. This will save you money in the long-term.