How to Unclog a Sink in 5 Easy Steps
Everyone dreads that day when they’ll have to clear a clogged drain. It’s a nasty process, and it can take quite awhile to get your sink working properly again. However, by following these simple steps, you might be able to speed the unclogging process up and get your sink running smoothly in no time.
1. Disconnect and Clean the Stopper
One of the most common causes of sink blockage is the gross stuff that builds up on your stopper. Go under the sink and look for a way to disconnect the stopper, then lift it out of the drain. If you see gunk stuck to the stopper, clean it off with a damp paper towel and see if that fixes your block.
2. Snake the Drain
Even if your stopper seemed pretty gunked-up, it’s always a good idea to check the rest of the drain to see if there are other hidden blocks. You can purchase a plumber’s snake from a hardware store for a reasonable price. Insert the snake into the drain and crank the handle. This will allow it to snag any obstructions.
3. Straighten Out a Wire Coat Hanger
If you don’t feel like spending money on a snake from the store, you can unbend a wire hanger and use it to pull things out of the blocked drain. If you can’t grab hold of the gunk with the hanger, you can also try to push the obstruction through the rest of the system.
4. Use a Plunger
Although plungers are usually reserved for toilet blockages, they can also work on your sink. Cover the drain opening with the plunger’s cup, then plunge vigorously six to eight times. If you’re lucky, you might save yourself a lot of trouble and clear the blockage quickly.
5. Check the P-Trap
You know that elbow-shaped section of your sink’s plumbing system? That’s the P-trap, and it can sometimes catch annoying blockages. Unscrew the connectors to the P-Trap and empty any water and gunk into a bucket.
If none of those steps seem to work, it’s probably time to call in professional aid from a company like Reichelt Plumbing. They’ll unclog your sink in no time and address any underlying issues your plumbing system may have. Plus, you won’t have to plug your nose and deal with the icky smells and sights while unclogging the drain by yourself. Call today to schedule an appointment or speak to a plumbing expert.