Your kitchen sink probably sees a lot of action because it is in the hub of your home. If you have a clogged kitchen sink it can mean a real disruption to your everyday life. Gotelli has a few steps you can take to unclog your sink and get back on track in no time.
Why is my sink not draining?
If water begins to backup up into your sink or drains slower than usual, you may have a problem down the line with your drain or garbage disposal. Though you may want to avoid dealing with a clogged sink, it’s better to address the problem quickly to avoid any plumbing surprises.
Kitchen Sink Clogs
The primary cause of a backed-up drain is a blockage or clog in the way of the water. Clogs are usually caused by residue buildup in your drain. Some materials that cause buildup include soap, grease, hair and food residue. With all the things we put down our kitchen sinks, it’s no wonder these things get caught and cause problems.
There are some things you can try to unclog a sink – most sink clogs can be resolved by homeowners.
- Pour boiling water down the drain.
- Mix baking soda, vinegar and hot water to pour down the drain.
- Make vinegar ice cubes to cut through grease in your sink.
- Use dish detergent and hot water in the drain.
- Pour liquid drain cleaner down the drain.
These liquids are designed to clean tough surfaces, so you might have luck using them to eat away at a clog in your drain. If these options don’t work – and you’re sure your drain is the part of the sink that is clogged – consider contacting a professional plumber. Their high-quality tools and expertise are sure to benefit you and make quick work of your stubborn clog.
Garbage Disposal Clogs
Another reason your sink is draining slowly could be a clogged garbage disposal. A properly functioning disposal has no problem grinding up and sending food on its way. However, when several complex food items are sent to the disposal, clogs can easily happen.
The most common clog-causes include:
- Eggshells
- Coffee Grounds
- Potato peels
- Banana peels
These food items – particularly combined with less water flushing – are recipes for disaster down in the drain trap. The drain trap is the U-shaped pipe you can see under most sinks. When the drain trap is coated with too much food residue and not enough water rinsing, it becomes clogged.
You can clean the drain trap with these steps:
- Remove the drain trap using pliers. (Be careful of the water and food waste that will come out of the trap when removed.)
- Clean the trap out with a small scrub brush.
- Check the trap arm and branch drain for necessary cleaning. They are the other pipes that connect to the drain trap.
- Reassemble the drain making sure the connections are tightened.
- Flush the drain to check for functionality and leaks.
If cleaning the drain trap yourself does not work, contact a plumber to assist you. They will be glad to use their experience to clear your pipes and get your sink back in working order.
When should I call a plumber to unclog my sink?
Call a plumber if none of the listed options unclog your sink or if you feel uncomfortable performing the advised cleaning. We will be happy to help you clear your sink and have your kitchen back to normal. Gotelli Plumbing is the best San Rafael kitchen plumbing service for your needs. Contact us today!
