A clogged kitchen sink is a common plumbing problem homeowners face. The sight of dirty water standing in your kitchen sink can be unpleasant and frustrating, especially if you don’t know how to resolve the problem. That’s why you need to know how to unclog a kitchen sink.
If your kitchen sink isn’t draining, you risk water damage, unhygienic conditions in the kitchen, and even mold growth. Given how much we rely on our kitchen sinks for washing dishes and food preparation, it’s a huge hassle when they become clogged. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we’ve been offering clogged drain cleaning services for decades. In this guide, our plumbers in Columbia, SC share six ways to unclog a kitchen sink. If you find yourself in need of professional drain cleaning services, look no further than Mr. Rooter Plumbing.
Boiling Water
Pour a kettle of boiling water down your drain to melt away grease or soap buildup that may be causing the clog. Do this slowly and in stages, allowing the hot water to work its way through the pipe between pours. This method is best for minor clogs and should be your first step before moving on to more aggressive techniques.
Use a Plunger
If boiling water doesn’t do the trick, grab a sink plunger. Make sure to plug the other side of a double sink with a wet rag to get a strong seal. Place the plunger over the clogged drain and plunge several times vigorously. The pressure can help dislodge food particles or other debris caught in the pipe. Once the water starts draining, flush it with hot water to ensure everything is cleared.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
For a natural and chemical-free solution, pour about half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by an equal amount of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble and help break down grime and minor blockages. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes before rinsing with hot water. This method can also help deodorize your drain and keep it fresh.
Check the Garbage Disposal
If your sink has a garbage disposal, the problem might be with the unit itself. Try running the disposal with cold water to see if that clears the clog. If it hums but doesn’t run, it may be jammed or need to be reset. Always turn off power to the unit before inspecting or manually turning the blades with an Allen wrench. However, major garbage issues are best handled by an experienced plumbing repair service.
Remove and Clean the P-Trap
If none of the above methods work, the clog may be trapped in the curved pipe beneath your sink known as the P-trap. Place a bucket underneath to catch any water, then use a wrench to remove the pipe. Clean out any gunk or buildup inside, then reattach and test the drain.
Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried multiple methods and your sink still won’t drain, it’s time to call a licensed plumbing repair service. A deeper clog in your kitchen drain line may require professional tools like a drain snake or hydro-jetting equipment. A trusted plumber can identify the cause quickly and ensure your system is clear and functioning properly.
Is Your Kitchen Sink Still Not Draining? Seek Professional Help From Mr. Rooter Plumbing
In this article, we’ve reviewed some of the effective ways to unclog kitchen sinks. But if these techniques do not work and you still have a clogged sink, you need to call a trusted local plumber. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we’ve been providing drain cleaning services for over 50 years. Our team has the expertise, experience, and specialized tools to inspect your drain lines and find the source of the clog. Our goal is to fix clogs once and for all so you don’t have to face clogged drains in the future. If you want to save time and hassles, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for clogged drain cleaning.
