Easy Way to Unclog a Sink Drain
Are you experiencing problems with a clogged sink drain? The good news is that you are not alone because this is one of the most common problems experienced in many homes. The better news is that with a few affordable tools and a little bit of patience, you can clear many of the stubborn clog drains in just a few minutes. So how do you do it?
Preparing the Tools
The usual tools that you would need to get rid of a clogged sink drain are not only affordable, but also relatively easy to use. These can be bought at almost any home improvement center or hardware near your area.
The most basic tool is the plunger. When buying a plunger, make sure to specify that you will use it for a sink and NOT THE TOILET. Look for one that has a large rubber bell to make sure that more thrust can be delivered. One with a bigger handle will allow you to apply more force with every plunge.
You will also need a bucket, to remove any stalled water in the sink. Rubber gloves to protect your hands. And you will also need to prepare a flashlight just in case you have to inspect what lies down the drain. Make sure that all of these tools are on hand before you start any unclogging work on your sink drains.
The Garbage Disposal Unit
Are you aware that garbage disposal units are one of the leading causes for clogged drains? You should consider this possibility if the sink that is clogged is connected to the garbage disposer.
How will you know if there is something wrong? Once you turn on the disposer and it does not turn, but you hear a low humming noise. This is an indication of a possibly jammed unit. What you have to do is to make sure that you turn it off and disconnect it from the electric power source. The blades can then be turned using an Allen wrench at a designated hole located at the bottom of the unit.
In case there is no noise when the unit is turned on, the possible problem lies with the internal circuit breaker. In this case, allow the unit to cool down for about a minute before pressing the reset button. Try to power it up again to see if it works properly now.
Before proceeding to unclog the drain, make sure that the flexible portion of the drain line is properly clamped. This will ensure that wastewater will not go back out to the dishwasher cabinet.
Plunging the Clog
Once you have cleared the garbage disposal unit as a possible source of the sink drain problem, you can now concentrate on unclogging the drain. This is done by using the sink plunger. Make sure that the drain hose of the dishwasher is properly clamped.
Fill the sink with water about 3 to 4 inches high. This will help you ensure proper sealing for the plunger mouth and the sink drain. For double sinks, place a wet rag over the drain of the other sink or use the basket strainer to create a seal.
To start plunging, roll the head of the plunger into the water to ensure that water, instead of air, is forced down the drain. Vigorously pump about 10 times. Make sure that on the last upward stroke of the plunger, it pops off the mouth of the drain to generate more pressure to unclog it.
In case the smooth flow of the sink drain is not restored, continue to use the plunger 10 more times. Repeat the process for about 5 sets. If the drain is still clogged after that, then you have to consider that you are facing a bigger plumbing problem and you may need the services of a licensed professional plumber.
Remember that you must never plunge a sink drain that you have poured drain cleaners in. This is because the chemicals may cause skin burns if the water splashes onto your skin.
The best way to deal with stubborn and frequently clogged sink drains is still to leave the job to the experts. Call Scott English Plumbing today and let them help you keep your home plumbing in tiptop shape!