The first thing you need to do is get a visual on your clog. Using a flashlight or your phone is a great way to see where the blockage is. Once you’ve found it, you can begin to unclog your sink.
1. Use boiling water to clear a light clog
When hair, soap residue and other debris get stuck in your pipes, boiling water can loosen them. This is a common fix that can work on even the smallest clogs and can be a simple, accessible method to get your drain back up and running.
2. Use a baking soda and vinegar solution to break up food or soap residue buildup
Baking soda is a popular natural cleaner that can work to dissolve tough grease and food clogs. It can also help reduce odors, and it’s mild enough that it won’t damage your pipes. Combine a half-cup of baking soda with half-a-cup of white vinegar in a container that seals and pour it down the drain. Wait 15 minutes for the mixture to work, then run hot tap water to finish flushing out the drain.
3. Remove a clogged strainer and clean it out thoroughly
When a clogged sink in Wilmington, it’s best to remove the sink’s drain trap-the U-shaped portion of the pipe that dips below the horizontal and vertical pipes. This will allow you to see if the blockage is on the bottom or in the trap itself.
4. Use a plunger to dislodge the clog
Plunging is the easiest and most accessible technique for clearing sink clogs. You can pick up a plunger at most hardware stores, and they’re usually available in both kitchen and bathroom versions.
5. Make a DIY plumber’s snake from a wire coat hanger
A good place to start is by grabbing a straightened, hook-shaped wire coat hanger and using needle-nose pliers to unwind it into a long piece of wire. This wire can then be used as a plumber’s snake to break up clogs further down the drain.
6. Try a shop vacuum for a larger drain clog
If you have a larger drain clog, you may need to use an electric or gas powered shop vacuum tool. These tools are able to cut through heavy-duty blockages and can be found at many home improvement retailers.
7. Take preventative measures to keep your kitchen drain clear and clog-free
The best thing you can do for your pipes is to avoid clogs in the first place, says Dave Mushinski of HomeAdvisor. A few small preventative habits like running hot tap water after each use and removing coffee grounds and cooking oil from the sink can help keep your drain lines healthy and clog-free.
8. Be sure to rinse off your garbage disposal after each use
If you use a garbage disposal, be sure to run the tap afterward to rinse out any remaining food debris from the blades. This can help keep the drain line free of clogs and prevent buildup, which can lead to slow draining or even a backed-up disposal.
Warning Signs You Need to Call a Professional for Clogged Kitchen Drainage in Wilmington
