Is your kitchen sink or bathroom clogged? It can be an inconvenience when wastewater won’t drain away from your kitchen sink or bathroom. Many kitchen sink and bathroom drain clogs are a result of bad habits like pouring grease down the sink and the accumulation of soap scum. Thankfully, it’s easy to unclog a kitchen sink or bathroom drain with simple DIY methods.
In this article, High Speed Plumbing of Fullerton outlines eight ways to clear kitchen sink and bathroom drain clogs. If you’re in need of professional drain cleaning in Fullerton, you can trust the team at High Speed Plumbing of Fullerton to do a great job and keep your drains flowing freely.
1. Pour Boiling Water Down The Drain
The simplest method for clearing a minor drain clog is to pour boiling water down the clogged drain. The hot water can melt and flush away grease and soap residue that might be causing the blockage.
2. Unclog The Drain With Baking Soda And Vinegar
If hot water doesn’t do the trick, try a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Mix half a cup of baking soda with half a cup of vinegar. Pour this mixture down the drain and cover it with a cloth or stopper for about 15 minutes. Then, flush it with hot water. The chemical reaction can break down and clear away debris. This classic combination can do wonders sometimes.
3. Use A Bent Wire Hanger
When a simple clog is within reach, a wire hanger can be your savior. Unwind the hanger and bend one end into a hook. Push it down the drain and try to dislodge the blockage. Be gentle to avoid damaging your pipes, and pull out any debris you can reach.
4. Use A Plunger
Plungers are not just for unclogging toilets; they can also help unclog kitchen sinks and bathroom drains. Ensure there’s enough water in the sink to cover the plunger’s cup and create a tight seal. Place the plunger over the drain hole and push and pull it vigorously. This action can dislodge the clog and get the water flowing again.
5. Use A Drain Snake
A drain snake, or auger, is a flexible tool designed for clearing drain clogs. Start by inserting the drain snake into the drain, and then crank the handle until it reaches the clog. If you feel some resistance, rotate the snake so it will attach to the clog or break it up. A drain snake is effective for dealing with tougher clogs deeper in the pipes.
6. Remove And Clean The Drain Trap
Underneath your sink, there’s a U-shaped pipe called the drain trap. Place a bucket beneath it to catch any water, and unscrew the trap carefully. Once removed, clean out any gunk or debris that may be causing the clog. When you’re done, reassemble the trap, and your drain should flow freely again.
7. Use A Wet And Dry Vacuum
If you have a wet and dry vacuum, you can use it to suck out the clog. First, set it to vacuum up liquids and place the hose end on the drain hole to create a tight seal over the drain. Secondly, turn on the vacuum to the highest setting and let it do the job. The pressure from the vacuum should clear the clog. Be prepared for some mess, so keep a towel handy.
8. Call A Plumber
When all else fails, it’s time to call in the professionals to help you out. Plumbers have the experience and tools to tackle even the most stubborn drain clogs and ensure your plumbing system remains in good working order. It might cost a bit, but it’s worth it to avoid further damage or frustration.
When you’re in need of professional drain cleaning in Fullerton, call the experts at High Speed Plumbing of Fullerton.