Dealing with Blocked Sinks? Try These Fixes!
Nothing is more frustrating than a blocked sink. A blocked sink can quickly become a major inconvenience, whether it is the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or laundry sink.
We’ve all experienced a sink that is either partially blocked or fully blocked.
Sometimes a blockage can be a temporary inconvenience and it can resolve itself and other times it will be a major issue where it will need to be unblocked. Unblocking a sink can be a simple process and we give you some tips to try below.
Other times a blockage needs a blocked drain specialist as the blockage is caused by obstructions in the pipes or damage to the pipes. And this is when it cannot be left.
What Causes Sink Drains to Get Blocked, Anyway?
The real culprits are everyday things that sneak their way down your drain.
In the kitchen it is typically food scraps coffee grounds, tea leaves and grease.
In the bathroom it is typically hair, soap scum, body lotions, dental floss and cotton swabs.
In the laundry it is typically soap scum, sand and dirt, pet hair, clothes lint and tissues.
Fix #1: The Trusty Plunger
Yes, the plunger, this mighty tool isn’t just for toilets. When your sink is clogged, give the plunger a go. Cover the drain with the plunger and give it a few vigorous pumps. The suction action might just dislodge whatever’s causing the blockage.
Every home should have a plunger or two! One for the sinks and one for the toilet.
Fix #2: Baking Soda and Vinegar Magic
These trusty favourites are useful for all cleaning hacks, including your sinks.
Start with pouring baking soda into the drain, about half a cup, and then pour down half a cup of vinegar. Quickly cover the drain with a cloth or plug to trap the fizzy reaction. After about 30 minutes, flush with really hot water. You can repeat this several times.
Fix #3: A Wire Hanger or Drain Eel
If you have a spare wire hanger straighten it out as much as possible and you need to leave a small hook on one end. Carefully insert it into the drain and start fishing for the gunk that’s causing trouble. Just remember, be careful as you do not want to damage anything down the drain line.
Another option is to get a plastic drain eel – You can get them from a Hardware store. They are long and flexible with little hooks on it and this is great to snag any trapped hair.
Fix #4: The Wet & Dry Vacuum
If you have a wet and dry vacuum read the manufactures warranty BEFORE you use it. Please do not blame us if your vacuum is not designed for this.
Cover the vent (if you have one) and set the vacuum to liquid mode. Seal the nozzle over the drain and suction might just pull out the blockage.
When Should You Wave the White Flag and Call for Professional Help?
Sometimes the stubborn sink wins. Here are signs that it’s time to call a plumber like The Blocked Drain Guys.
- Repeated Blockages: If your sink seems to clog up every few weeks despite your best efforts, there might be a more serious issue such as tree roots or damage to the pipes. A professional plumber can find the main issue causing the problem and rectify it.
- Multiple Clogged Drains: If it’s not just one sink but multiple drains in your house acting up, This is sign of a main sewer line blockage. It will require a CCTV camera inspection to see where the blockage is. Definitely a job for the experts!
- Strange Odours: A smelly sink that still smells after your drain cleaning attempts. there will be decomposing gunk somewhere deep within your pipes. We can clean out the pipes with hydro jetting. Anything caught down in the pipes will be flushed away.
- DIY Attempts Failed: You’ve tried all the hacks and fixes, but that sink is still slow draining or blocked. It’s time to let someone with experience take over.
Ready To Solve Your Sink Troubles?
Don’t let those clogs get in your way any longer.
Why Choose Us:
- Experienced plumbers who’ve seen it all.
- Quick and reliable service that gets results.
- We tackle tough clogs, so you don’t have to.
- Your go-to solution for clog-free peace of mind.
Contact Us Today:
Phone: 1800 744 737
Blocked Sinks – https://theblockeddrainguys.com.au
But Wait, There’s More! Preventing Future Sink Blockages
Let’s talk about a prevention.
Avoid sink blockages should be something to try and do and it is not that difficult.
- Catch Those Strays: Invest in a drain strainer or stopper. These little wonders catch food scraps, hair, and other potential clog culprits before they can go on a drain-blocking adventure.
- Watch the Grease: Grease is liquid when it’s hot and in still the hot pan and it all too tempting to let the grease go down the drain as you rinse it with hot water.
As grease or oil cools down, it solidifies and sticks to your pipes. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, allow it to cool down first, and then pour it into a jar or carton and toss it in the trash. - Flush with Hot Water: Pouring boiling water with a squirt of dish washing liquid is a great idea and do it every month. Boil a kettle, pour the hot water down the drain. The hot water and detergent will help dissolve any greasy build up.
- Common Sense: Some things just don’t belong down the drain – like cotton balls, wipes, and hair. Always toss these items in the trash or recycle bin instead.
- Stay Away from Chemicals: While pouring a chemical drain cleaner down the sink might be tempting, these can be harsh on your pipes and not so great for the environment. Stick to natural methods whenever possible.
- Educate the Household: If you share your space with others, make sure everyone knows the dos and don’ts of sink etiquette. A little awareness goes a long way!
The Bottom Line: Don’t Let the Blockage Get You Down!
Blocked sinks can quickly turn into a significant problem in the kitchen and laundry.
You do not want a flooding incident in your home.
The Blocked Drain Guys are professional plumbers who work in the Sutherland Shire.
We are available for all blocked sinks, drains, toilets or annoying plumbing problems.
Get in touch with us today on 1800 744 737
