3 Tips for Unclogging a Kitchen Sink

How To Unclog a Kitchen Sink Drain

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. And while they're usually not catastrophic, anyone who's experienced them knows that they're no picnic either. They can be smelly, unsightly, and incredibly disruptive - especially if the drain in question happens to be in the kitchen sink. 

The backed-up food waste can make this extremely unpleasant, but having the kitchen sink out of commission can throw a major wrench into the daily routine. So this article will lay out three ways for homeowners to clear up those pesky kitchen sink clogs as quickly and effectively as possible!

Option 1 - Boiling Water

The first drain clearing method to try is also the easiest (and cheapest) - all it takes is about a half-gallon of boiling water. Homeowners can simply bring the water to a boil in a pot or kettle and pour it - carefully - directly into the mouth of the drain. Most kitchen drain clogs are caused primarily by grease that has cooled and solidified inside the pipes, so boiling water can help melt it and get it flowing down the drain.

This method does have its limitations, however. If the drain connects to PVC or plastic pipes that aren't rated for temperatures above 212 degrees Fahrenheit (water's boiling point), homeowners should not use this method, as it can damage or warp the pipes. And if the sink is already full of backed-up water, adding boiling water likely won't be effective unless the standing water is first removed with a pump or wet-dry vacuum.

Option 2 - Baking Soda and Vinegar

Homeowners should first pour some boiling water down the drain (an optional step). Then, they can pour 1 cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by 1 cup of basic white vinegar, then put a stopper over the drain to keep the mixture from bubbling up into the sink. After letting it do its thing for about 15 minutes, one can pour down hot (preferably boiling) water into the drain to wash everything down.

If necessary, one can repeat the process multiple times. However, while this method can be effective against minor blockages, it may not work on more serious clogs. 

Option 3 - Call-In a Pro

Finally, when the DIY drain cleaning methods have failed to do the trick, it's probably time to bring in a professional. By far, Pro plumbers have the most effective methods and tools for clearing drains.

They have drain augers (often called "drain snakes") - flexible metal coils that can be fed down into the pipe to extract tough clogs. They also have hydro-jetting machines, which use high-powered streams of hot water to break up blockages, flush out debris, and clean residue off of the pipe walls.

Professionals also understand the ins and outs of kitchen plumbing, so they can perform these methods without damaging the garbage disposal, dishwasher, or the more fragile pieces of plumbing equipment under the sink. Hiring a pro is a sure bet for safe, effective, and long-lasting drain cleaning methods.

Trust About Plumbing Inc.

Founded in 2016 by a 20-year industry veteran, About Plumbing Inc. has quickly become one of its community's most trusted and highly-rated businesses. Their background-checked and drug-tested expert technicians always show up on time, offer clear communication every step of the way, and leave every home better than they found it. About's total satisfaction guarantee backs all work, so call them today for drain cleaning in Jefferson County, MO!

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