Dealing with Tough Kitchen Sink Clogs
Even while practicing good habits in the kitchen, like tossing food scraps and cooking grease in the trash, kitchen sink clogs can still form. When that happens, there’s no need to call a plumber until first trying some safe and effective tricks to loosen tough clogs.
Here are some quick tips from professionals to help homeowners safely clear a clogged kitchen sink. By sticking with these approved methods, homeowners can safely remove clogs while not endangering their home’s plumbing with harsh chemicals.
Boil the Problem Away
- Most sink clogs are the result of a slow buildup of grease on the walls of pipes
- It's easy to boil water on the stove and make a short walk to the sink
When hot water is poured down the kitchen sink, the heat from the water can soften up greasy residue that tends to collect other debris. When the “glue” that holds a clog together is loosened, the clog will soften and likely break apart.
Getting the water to a full boil is not necessary; however, flushing the pipes with hot water from the faucet after boiling water has been poured down the sink can help sweep away debris. A gallon of boiling water is usually recommended since it will give adequate volume to remove clogs. More boiling water is discouraged because too much boiling water could soften PVC pipes and damage joints.
The Power of Vinegar and Baking Soda
Another classic kitchen trick is using vinegar and baking soda. To use this method, pour up to a cup of baking soda directly into the drain that is draining slowly. Pour an equivalent amount of vinegar down the drain to activate the baking soda and watch the show! The two ingredients will react vigorously to form tiny bubbles that break up clogs.
This method is a great way to break up mild clogs and is excellent at preventing clogs from forming. After using this method, flush the pipes with hot water from the tap to clear away debris.
When All Else Fails, Call for Professional Drain Cleaning
Sometimes, DIY drain cleaning doesn't work because the clog is too tough, and when that happens, there are always professionals to fall back on. Kitchen sinks are notorious for clogging up to the degree that a homeowner can’t handle themselves, so a simple call to a drain cleaning professional can get things back on track.
A drain cleaning company has many tools and skills to quickly fix a clogged kitchen sink. A technician can use special drain snakes to grab debris from kitchen or bathroom sinks. They may also dismantle drain plumbing under the sink to physically remove clogs and inspect the inside of the pipes. Most companies also offer preventative cleanings on a scheduled basis, so homeowners never have to worry about sink clogs.
About Sheely Plumbing Inc.
Sheely Plumbing Inc. is a family-owned and operated company serving the greater Grand Rapids area for ten years with trusted, experienced, background-checked technicians. Call today for the same or next-day plumbing service in Grand Rapids, MI.
