How to Fix a Clogged Sink
Plumbing blockages can be a huge hassle on time and productivity. Knowing how to fix a clogged sink can come in handy when you want to quickly resolve issues to get back to work. Below we will go over some common methods on fixing a clog and the do’s and don’ts to help maintain your sinks and plumbing system. Don’t forget to look at our common restaurant plumbing problems to help you get ahead of plumbing problems and know what to keep an eye on before you have to call in a professional.
How to Fix a Clogged Sink
There are a variety of methods that can be used to unclog a sink. Some of the most common ways to fix a clogged sink are:
- Plunger - Plunging the sink might dislodge the clog or blockage. Use a plunger with a flat rim and plunge rapidly. You might need to add water to the clogged drain to help with the process.
- Drain snake - A drain snake is the most common way to unclog a sink. There are a few different drain snakes you can purchase, ones with and without a crank. Follow along on our how to use a plumbing snake article to learn how to unclog the sink.
- Baking soda & vinegar - This solution can help loosen and dislodge smaller clogs in sink drains. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar bubbles helps to move things along. Use 1 cup of baking soda to 1 cup of vinegar and then after letting that sit for a while flush with boiling water.
- Salt & boiling water - Another simple remedy would be to try using half a cup of table salt in the drain and then pour boiling water to help dislodge clogs.
- Removing p-trap - Sometimes a clog can sit in the p-trap of a sink. Try to remove this, making sure to put a bucket under to catch any excess water. Clear out any clog or obstruction in the trap to see if that resolves the issue.
Do’s & Don’ts
- Don’t throw oil or grease down the drain
- Don’t let large debris fall down the drain
- Don’t use harsh cleaners or detergents
- Do use a fine mesh sink trap to catch small debris
- Do clean out the sink trap frequently
- Do perform preventative maintenance on a routine schedule
- Do call a professional when the problem is complex