A clogged kitchen sink is every homeowner’s worst nightmare. It’s one of those plumbing problems that can throw a wrench in your plans and make you avoid the kitchen. Nothing is more frustrating than watching dirty water sitting in the kitchen sink when you want to wash the dishes.
There are several inexpensive methods for unclogging a kitchen sink, including using a drain snake, a plunger, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. If none of these methods work, call a professional plumber in Columbia, SC to help you out. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the name you can trust when you need a trusted plumber to clear a clogged kitchen sink. In today’s blog, we’ll explain what you should do when you face a clogged drain and what you shouldn’t do.
What You Should Do When Your Sink Is Clogged
If you notice your kitchen sink draining slowly or not at all, there are a few smart steps to take before calling a plumbing repair service.
Try Hot Water First
Pouring boiling water down the drain can help melt away minor grease buildup. Do this slowly in stages to give the hot water time to work.
Use a Plunger
A sink plunger can dislodge small clogs. Fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger’s cup, create a tight seal, and pump firmly several times.
Check the Trap
The P-trap can collect debris. Place a bucket underneath, unscrew the fittings, and clean out any buildup. Reattach the trap and test the drain with warm water.
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
This natural combination can help loosen grime and small clogs without harsh chemicals. Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar into the drain, wait about 15 minutes, and flush with hot water.
What You Shouldn’t Do When Your Sink Is Clogged
Many homeowners make common mistakes that can make a clog worse or even damage their drain line.
Don’t Pour Chemical Drain Cleaners
Commercial drain cleaners might promise quick results, but they’re harsh on pipes and can corrode metal or PVC. Repeated use may lead to leaks or costly pipe replacements.
Don’t Force the Garbage Disposal
If the sink is backed up, running the disposal could make things worse. Always check for clogs in the disposal chamber first and reset the system safely before turning it back on.
Don’t Ignore Repeated Clogs
If your sink keeps clogging even after trying the usual fixes, it could mean there’s a deeper blockage in your main line or an issue with pipe alignment. Ignoring it might lead to water backing up into other fixtures. Call a local plumbing repair service for help for your long-term peace of mind.
When to Call a Professional Kitchen Plumbing Specialist
While DIY methods can help with minor clogs, persistent or severe blockages should always be handled by a licensed plumber. Professionals use specialized tools such as drain snakes, hydro-jetting equipment, and cameras to locate and remove tough clogs without harming your plumbing. They can also identify early warning signs of pipe damage, helping you prevent future problems.
Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Professional Drain Cleaning and Kitchen Plumbing Services
Now that you know what you should and shouldn’t do when you encounter a clogged kitchen sink, you can seek professional help suited to your needs. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the company to call when you’re looking for a professional plumbing repair service to clear your clogged kitchen sink. We have a highly experienced team of plumbers that can help you keep your kitchen plumbing in top shape.
