Every household can experience a blocked sink at some point. To help you address this issue, we have compiled a set of practical tips and measures that you can implement when faced with a blocked sink.
Take a moment to explore our expert suggestions below, which will equip you with the knowledge to effectively tackle sink blockages!
Use A Plunger
The plunger is a well-known tool for unclogging sinks, but not everyone may be familiar with the proper technique to use it effectively.
To ensure you make the most of your plunger and achieve optimal results, it’s important to follow a few simple steps before putting it to use.
Clear the Drain – Before using the plunger, it’s crucial to prepare the sink properly for effective unclogging. Follow these steps to ensure you start on the right foot:
Start by removing any standing water from the sink. Use a cup or container to scoop out the water along with any food or hair debris that may be present. This will leave the basin relatively free of water. Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands during the process. This will help maintain hygiene and prevent any potential mess. Additionally, block the overflow opening of the sink with an old cloth or towel. This will ensure that the plunger’s force is concentrated on the clog rather than escaping through the overflow. By taking these preliminary steps, you’ll create an optimal environment for using the plunger effectively and increase your chances of successfully unclogging the sink.
Clear the Plug – It’s important to thoroughly clean and clear the plughole as well. Follow these steps to ensure a proper cleaning before assessing the effectiveness of your efforts:
Remove any visible debris or buildup from the plughole. Use your fingers or a tool to clear away any gunk or blockages that you can easily reach. After cleaning, conduct a quick test to check if the water now drains away freely. Turn on the tap and let the water run at a moderate flow. Observe if the water drains away smoothly without any signs of backing up. By cleaning the plughole and conducting a simple water flow test, you can assess whether your efforts have improved the draining capacity of the sink.
Grab the Plunger – After completing the previous steps, it’s time to use the plunger to tackle the clog. Follow these instructions to effectively utilise the plunger:
Position the plunger over the sinkhole, ensuring a tight seal between the plunger and the basin surface. Fill the basin with a small amount of water, approximately an inch deep. This water helps create a better seal and enhances the plunging action. With a firm grip, press the plunger up and down in a controlled manner. Avoid overly aggressive motions, as they may disrupt the seal or cause splashing. The goal is to generate suction that can dislodge minor blockages and restore proper drainage.
If the plunging method doesn’t resolve the issue, it may be necessary to explore alternative methods (as explained below) or consider seeking assistance from a professional plumber.
Use DIY Tools To Unclog Your Sink
There are also a number of helpful aids that you can buy that will help you to clear stubborn sink blockages. We have gathered a list here.
Drain Snake – A drain snake is a helpful tool to have in every homeowner’s arsenal. It is a long flexible tool that can bend through your pipework and be used to dislodge stubborn blockages in your plumbing system. They are cheap and easy to use, requiring no force to use. All you need to do is rotate the handle back and forth, letting the head of the tool do the legwork for you. You can pick one of these up at your local hardware stores or online at places like Amazon.
Wire – Now this is a DIY version of a drain snake but can be used as a quick alternative should you not have the tool to hand. Simply straighten a coat hanger and gently push it down your sink hole. With a small application of pressure this can be helpful and effective at unblocking your sink.
DIY Drain Jet – Now this will not always work, but it is harmless to give it a try. All you need is two empty bottles and some hot water. Fill up the bottles with the hot water, place them at the opening of the sink and squeeze the water down forcefully. This may work as a weaker version of a drain jet, that can dislodge blockages and flush them down your pipe-works.
The Use of Drain Blockers
Now this is a controversial one, but the use of certain chemicals can be effective in dislodging small blockages without having to make the call to a plumber.
Sink unblocker chemicals work by dissolving the blockage and passing through it down your drain pipe. You will pour an entire bottle of the chemical down your pipes and follow the application instructions that the product has on the bottle.
Once done you will need to flush hot water down your drains and this can be a great way to keep your drain clear from everyday blockages that can occur from day to day use.
It is recommended though that this is not done on a regular basis. Most chemicals are harmful to the environment and if they are regularly used can corrode away at your pipes causing bigger plumbing issues that you will then need to remedy.
Call an Experienced Plumber
As alluded to earlier, there are some blockages that require professional solutions in order to remedy. You need to know when to hang your DIY hat up and call up a plumber to resolve the sink blockage effectively.
A plumber has access to higher spec equipment than what you can pick up from a
hardware store. They have investigative equipment also that can diagnose your issue and allow them to pick the best solution.
Whether they jet your drain with their high powered equipment or use their drain rods to get to places that your small drain snake could not reach, they will be better equipped to deal with the more complicated blockages that you cannot unclog.
So, it is important that you know when the limitations of your abilities and signal for professional help instead of forcing your DIY fixes.
Need a professional?
If you encounter any plumbing or water-related issues and require the services of a reliable plumber in the South West region, Ability is here to assist you. We take pride in being one of the most esteemed plumbing companies in the area, boasting decades of experience in the field.
Contacting us is easy. You can reach out to Ability by completing the form available on our website, calling us at (+44) 01892 514495, or sending a message to info@ability.uk.com. Rest assured, we prioritise prompt responses and will get back to you as swiftly as possible. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary help and guidance without delay.
An increasing number of individuals are choosing Ability for their plumbing needs in the South West, and we look forward to serving you with our expertise.
