FAQ – Simple Answers to Kitchen Sink Questions

Well-designed kitchens are said to be those that will allow you to move almost effortlessly throughout the area so that you can prepare and cook food without hindrance. On the other hand, well-functioning kitchens are those where there are minimal problems encountered with its plumbing fixtures and appliances.

FAQ Kitchen Sink:

1. Why a double kitchen sink?

For homes that do not have a dishwasher installed, a double basin sink can be the next best thing. This allows for multitasking as you can fill one side with hot water for washing dishes and use the other half for rinsing. It delivers convenience even if each basin is smaller than a single basin sink.

There is also a large and small basin variant, which is ideal for those with a dishwasher installed but do not have a prep sink to work with. Just make sure that each basin has its own drain.

2. Why does a kitchen sink not have an overflow?

Simplest answer if you are in the United States is that it is not required by plumbing codes, so manufacturers do not see the need to put them in. Why isn’t it required?

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) believes that putting an overflow can create sanitation problems. This is because the food particles can get caught and rot in the overflow. For European manufacturers, a cleanout is designed with the overflow so it can be accessed; U.S. manufacturers simply chose to simplify and let go of the overflow completely. If you have a double basin kitchen sink, the other basin serves as the overflow.

3. Why does my sink gurgle in kitchen?

Simplest answer is clogging. Aside from the obvious food clogs, grease and dirt can also buildup in the kitchen sink among other types of debris. The result is air trapped and slow draining water. When the air bubbles try to force through the blockage using the nearest vent, a gurgling noise is heard.

This can also be part of the question, why does my kitchen sink make noise? There may also be instances where instead of a gurgling noise, you will hear a high-pitched or almost squealing noise. In this instance, the source of the noise will reveal the cause of the problem; whether it is the faucet or the plumbing pipes underneath the sink.

4. Why does my kitchen sink have a vent?

It is important to understand that plumbing fixtures like kitchen sinks need proper venting to function correctly. The vent plays a role in the draining process as negative pressure is created in the drain. This negative pressure is what pulls the water from the P-trap, which prevents sewer gases from entering your home. If there is no vent, dangerous sewer gases will enter your home every time negative pressure is created.

5. Why does my kitchen sink keep getting clogged?

Cooking grease, oil, soap scum, and undissolved food particles are some of the common causes of clogging. If you do not observe proper disposal of these, the can create problems in your drains as the oil and grease solidifies or the food particles turn into sticky gunk. Now, if you observe proper disposal, but remain pestered by frequent clogging, you need to call a licensed plumber to have your home plumbing inspected.

6. Why does my kitchen sink leak?

There are many possibly reasons for kitchen sink leaks like missing valve, loose connections, and cracked pipes. The most common among these is cracked pipes because of quality issues. Low quality pipes are prone to rust and degradation causing it to leak faster. The more imminent danger is that of burst pipes. There is also an issue of possible excessive pressure that is exerted on the pipes or worn out supply lines. Because of the many possibilities, a licensed plumber has to be called in for proper diagnosis.

7. Why does my kitchen sink smell?

Kitchen sink odors can be attributed to 2 things; rotting food and sewer gas. Eventually, food particles caught in the sink drain or the garbage disposal will begin to rot and emit foul odor. If the smell is sewer gas though, you need to ask a licensed plumber to check both the sink trap and the plumbing vent to ensure that you are not in danger from toxic gases.

8. Why is kitchen sink water black water?

It has to be cleared that classification of kitchen sink water can vary. This means that in some states it can be classified as black water, while in others gray water, or even dark grey because of its high fat, grease, and bacteria content.

If you live in California, then, kitchen sink water would be considered black water, which means it cannot be harvested. However, black water is widely defined as contaminated water that contains fecal matter, similar to water flushed from the toilet. Gray water can sometimes be confused with black water as well.

9. Why is kitchen sink water pressure low?

Low water pressure can sometimes be caused by breaks in the water line. However, if completely isolated in the kitchen, there are a couple of things that can be checked like the (clogged) faucet aerator or cartridge. These can be resolved without any plumbing skills. If these are not causing the problem, you need a licensed plumber’s experience to identify and solve the problem.

10. Why is my kitchen sink backing up?

If you have a double basin sink clogged on both sides, the cause is possibly a blocked drain pipe at the point where both sinks meet. For single basins, the problem can be within the P-trap, which has become clogged. Simply put, clogging is the most common reason for backed up kitchen sinks. You can try to use a plunger or an auger to get rid of the blockage, but, if the problem persists, call a plumbing specialist at once.

These are the most commonly asked questions when it comes to kitchen sink plumbing. For any and all of your plumbing needs, Scott English Plumbing is your best solution. Call them now!