A clogged sink is one of most homeowners’ nightmares. It usually happens at the most inopportune moment and you will probably want to call a reputable plumber Sydney to resolve the issue.
This is a good idea as they have the experience and tools to resolve the issue effectively. However, you may feel that this is something you can deal with yourself and simply get the plumber to check the issue afterward. If this is the case then you need to know the do’s and don’ts of clearing a clogged sink.
Do’s
Get The Plunger Out
There are several different types of plungers, you need to choose the one that is designed for your sink. This allows you to create a seal over the sinkhole and then move the plunger up and down. The movement extracts the air and creates a vacuum. This negative air pressure effectively forces the clog to break up, allowing water to flow through again.
Check The Trap
One of the most common causes of slow draining sinks and clogs is the trap under the sink. This trap prevents gases from rising into your home, making it an essential part of your plumbing. But, its design does mean it is easier for debris to collect and cause an issue.
Unscrew the trap and be ready with a bowl to catch the water from your sink. You can then empty and clear the trap to see if it resolves the issue.
Pour Hot Water Down The Drain
Hot water can be effective at resolving clogs in the line, especially if they are to do with materials that have gone down the drain as a liquid and then solidified, such as fat.
Don’ts
Assume The Problem Is Resolved
As the water starts to drain you’ll feel great, you’ve fixed it! However, don’t assume the problem is fully resolved. It’s a good idea to use a drain camera or get the professionals to check your drains and ensure all clogs and debris are gone.
Put Boiling Water Down the Drain
Hot water can help resolve a clog due to fat or similar substances solidifying. But, boiling water is likely to damage the inside of your pipes, potentially giving you another set of issues.
In short, never pour boiling water down your sink drain.
Use Caustic Chemicals
Caustic chemicals effectively eat their way through any blockage. In theory, this is great and effective. However, these chemicals are also capable of eating through the pipe. Using them too often will damage the inside of your pipes, potentially causing holes and leaks.
Drain Augers
These are an effective way of removing clogs as the thin metal snakes around the bends and finds the clog. It then pushes its way through creating a passage for the wastewater and hopefully breaking up the clog in the process.
However, if you use excessive force with the auger you can damage the pipes, use it, but be gentle with it.
