If your kitchen sink has been backing up and water won’t go down the drain it’s probably because there’s a blockage in the “U” bend under the sink. The good news is that this is a fairly easy problem to fix yourself using a drain snake. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start by removing the P-trap under the sink. This is the curved pipe that connects the sink drain to the main drain pipe.
2. Put on a pair of gloves and insert the drain snake into the drain pipe. Push it through until you feel resistance.
3. Begin turning the handle of the drain snake. As you turn the snake will wind around the U-bend and break up the blockage.
4. Continue turning the handle until the drain snake comes out the other side.
5. Remove the gloves and discard the blockage.
6. Replace the P-trap and run some water down the drain to make sure it’s unblocked.
If your sink is still backing up after trying this you may have a bigger blockage further down the drain pipe. In this case you may need to call a plumber.
How do you clear a clogged sink?
Answer 1: The first thing you should do is remove the stopper and any debris that may be caught in it.
Next locate the P-trap under the sink and check to see if it is full of water.
If it is use a plunger to try and dislodge the clog.
If this doesn’t work you may need to use a drain snake.
How do you use a drain snake?
Answer 2: To use a drain snake insert the end of the snake into the drain and turn the handle to rotate the snake.
Continue doing this until you feel the snake make contact with the clog.
Once you feel the snake hit the clog continue pushing it through until the clog is dislodged.
What is a P-trap?
Answer 3: A P-trap is a curved portion of pipe under a sink that is designed to hold water in order to create a seal that prevents sewer gases from entering the home.
Where is the P-trap located?
Answer 4: The P-trap is located under the sink typically close to where the drain pipe meets the wall.
What is a drain snake?
Answer 5: A drain snake is a long flexible piece of metal with a handle that is used to remove clogs from drains.
How do you know if the drain snake has made contact with the clog?
Answer 6: You will feel the drain snake make contact with the clog when you turn the handle and rotate the snake.
How do you know when the clog has been dislodged?
Answer 7: The clog will be dislodged when you are able to push the drain snake through it.
What should you do if you can’t dislodge the clog with the drain snake?
Answer 8: If you can’t dislodge the clog with the drain snake you may need to call a professional plumber.
What are some signs that you have a clogged sink?
Answer 9: Some signs that you have a clogged sink include water that drains slowly water that backs up when you try to use the sink and a foul odor coming from the drain.
Can a clogged sink cause problems with your plumbing?
Answer 10: Yes a clogged sink can cause problems with your plumbing.
When a sink is clogged it can put pressure on the pipes and cause them to leak.
What are some things that can cause a sink to become clogged?
Answer 11: Some things that can cause a sink to become clogged include hair soap scum food and grease.
How can you prevent a sink from becoming clogged?
Answer 12: You can prevent a sink from becoming clogged by using a drain strainer to catch hair and other debris and by avoiding putting things like grease and food down the drain.
What should you do if you have a clogged sink?
Answer 13: The first thing you should do is remove the stopper and any debris that may be caught in it.
Next locate the P-trap under the sink and check to see if it is full of water.
If it is use a plunger to try and dislodge the clog.
If this doesn’t work you may need to use a drain snake.
How can you tell if a sink is clogged?
Answer 14: Some signs that you have a clogged sink include water that drains slowly water that backs up when you try to use the sink and a foul odor coming from the drain.
Can you use a drain snake on all types of drains?
Answer 15: Yes you can use a drain snake on all types of drains.
