You’re staring into the rising water in your kitchen sink knowing that there must be a clog hidden within the pipes. Ugghhh. This means you might have to prepare food somewhere else, wash your hands somewhere, and even wash the dishes in the bathroom or outside. It’s an inconvenience nobody wants to deal with. But before you call the plumber to fix the problem, we want you to try these suggestions first!
1. Boiling water
This is the easiest and least expensive solution of all, which makes it the best one to try first. Place a kettle or pot of water on the stove and bring to a rolling boil. While you’re waiting for the water to heat, remove as much standing water from the sink as you can, using a mug or small pot to bail out the water. Then, pour the entire kettle of water into the sink and wait. If the water stands in the sink and the clog doesn’t move, give the water time to cool and remove it to try again. You may need to repeat the process several times to move the clog, but this often works on many types of stoppage.
2. Disposal
Check to make sure it’s not your garbage disposal that’s causing the problem. A clogged disposal can stop up the drain, so run the disposal to see if that clears the clog. Then inspect it to make sure it’s running correctly. If the disposal has overheated, you may need to flip the switch found on the side or bottom of the unit underneath the sink.
3. Plunger
If these combinations aren’t successful in unclogging your sink, reach for a common household plunger. If you have a double sink, first seal off the second side with a wet cloth or a stopper. You’ll need to create a tight seal around the plunger, so fill the side of the sink you intend to plunge with enough water to cover the bell of the plunger. Place the plunger firmly over the drain and plunge vigorously several times. When you hear the suction clear the clog, remove the plunger and flush the drain well with warm water.
4. Drain Snake
Sometimes called an auger, this handy tool can clear clogs that may be stuck further down the system. You’ll have to disassemble the drainpipe that runs underneath the kitchen sink to expose the “stub pipe” or “stubout” that travels behind the cabinet wall. This is where you insert the snake into the pipe until you feel resistance to break up the clog.
If none of these options work, the master plumbers at Michael’s Plumbing would love to give you a hand! They have the experience and insight to solve all your plumbing problems, from sewer and drain maintenance to an easy plumbing repair. Give them a call at (407) 219-9772 or schedule an appointment online!