Tips on Clearing Clogged Sinks like a Pro

Would you like to know how you can clear clogged drains like a pro? Are you aware that it really is not that hard as long as you have the right tools and the proper technique? Let us try to explore how we can clear clogged drains like a pro.

Right Tools

Everything begins with having or using the right tools. Despite the varying plumbing systems, all of these are susceptible to clogging. Removing stubborn clogs from sinks, drains, and toilets can be done when the right tools are at hand. The good news is that there are only a few tools that you will need to address clogging problems.

It is important to point out that recurring clogs can be an indication of a bigger problem that only pros can deal with so it is vital that when this happens, you need to call them in. For the meantime however, there are a couple of things that you can do. Before we proceed with the proven techniques of dislodging clogs, make sure that you have a plunger ready.

Even if you ask professional plumbers, you will know that all of them will have at least one type of plunger in their arsenal. The plunger, which is known as the plumber’s friend can take care of virtually all types of clogs that can occur in your tubs, sinks, and toilets.

The other tools that you will need is a closet auger that is specially designed to snake out your toilets. This is commonly equipped with a hand crank with a cable that is encased within a rigid shaft. The end of the auger is bent at an angle so that it can navigate through tight curves of the plumbing system.

Trap and Drain

Now that you have the right tools, unclogging of the trap and drain can be done. When dealing with minor clogs, the plunger is the first tool that you can use. To unclog the sink, you need to fill it with water before vigorously plunging. Plunge the clogged sink several times before you pull it off the drain opening.

If you have a double-bowl sink, a wet rag should be placed in the drain opening of the other bowl as you plunge the other side. When dealing with a bath sink, make sure that the overflow hole is plugged with a rag. The rag is used to increase the pressure exerted directly on the clog.

When the plunger does not dislodge the clogging, use the cable auger by removing the sink trap using a pipe wrench. Make sure that you empty the water from the trap in a bucket so you don’t make a mess. If the clogging is not in the trap, use the auger and work it down the drain to remove the clogging. You may need to repeat the process a couple of times to ensure that the blockage is removed.

Cutting Through the Clog

Another technique in unclogging sinks is to remove the horizontal trap arm. If you are not familiar with it, it is that thing that protrudes from your stub out on the wall. Simply feed the cable into it until you feel a bit of resistance. Pull it out a bit and tighten the lock screw.

Start cranking the handle using a clockwise direction and proceed by pushing it forward to drive the cable further into the pipes. Continue with the process until the cable breaks through the clogging. When you feel the cable has latched onto something, turn the crank in a counterclockwise direction and pull back on it. Push the cable forward again.

After retrieving the cable you can now replace the trap arm and the trap itself. Continue by opening the hot water faucet to check if the sink is now draining properly. If it is still a bit sluggish, partially fill the sink using hot water and begin plunging it to clear any debris that has settled.

If these techniques do not clear the clogging or you encounter more plumbing problems in the process, pick up the phone and contact Scott English Plumbing immediately.