How to Help: Unclog that Pesky Sink Drain
Knowing how to unclog a sink drain is one of the most useful maintenance tasks for consumers. Most people have plungers, baking soda, and vinegar on hand. Being able to use these cheap tools in unclogging a sink drain can save you a lot of money in the long run on repairs. Curious on how to unclog your own sink? Read on to find out more.
The Plunger Method
Plungers might be best known for unclogging toilets, but these tools can come in useful for clearing out sink drains too. Unclogging bigger drains, such as the kitchen sink, may need some extra elbow grease which can be provided by a plunger. Before using the plunger, fill up your sink at least ¼ of the way full of hot water. Be sure not to overfill, as the maximum amount of water should not rise past the halfway point of the sink. If you have a double sink, place a washcloth or towel into the other drain to help maximize the plunger pressure on the clog. Next place the plunger in the water over the clogged drain, pushing and pulling to “plunge” and unclog the drain. After 5-6 plunges, remove the plunger to check the status. If water starts draining, that is a good sign that the drain is becoming unclogged. Tougher blockages might take several rounds of plunging to break up the clog fully.
The Baking Soda Method
If using a plunger is not available or isn’t working, utilizing baking soda and vinegar might do the trick. In order to use this method, the standing water needs first to be removed from the sink. After you removed all the water, pour one cup of baking soda down the drain. Use a spatula or toothbrush to help excess baking soda into the tight crevices if needed. Next, pour one cup of vinegar down the drain. Placing a rubber stopper on the drain (such as you would use to do the dishes) can help extenuate the vinegar and baking soda reaction. Wait five minutes, and then pour one quart of boiling water down the drain slowly. The combination of heat from the water and scrubbing action of vinegar and baking soda will help to dissolve the clog in the pipes.
DIY unclogging is fairly easy and cheap. However, if trying these simple tasks do not unclog your pesky drain, it’s best to call a repairman or plumber immediately. At Doc’s Appliance Service , our trained professionals are ready to help you unclog even the worst of drains. Give us a call today at 800-726-7130.
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