## How to Unblock a Kitchen Sink Drain Outside
A clogged kitchen sink drain can be a major inconvenience, especially when you’re trying to get dishes done or prepare meals. If you’ve tried using a plunger or drain cleaner without success, it’s time to look for a more effective solution. One option is to try unblocking the drain from outside your home. Here’s how to do it:
### **Materials you’ll need:**
* Drain auger
* Bucket
* Rags
* Screwdriver or wrench (optional)
### **1. Locate the cleanout plug**
The first step is to locate the cleanout plug. This is a small, removable cap that is usually located on the outside of your house, near the kitchen sink. It may be covered by a metal plate or a plastic cap.
### **2. Remove the cleanout plug**
Once you’ve found the cleanout plug, remove it using a screwdriver or wrench. Be careful not to lose the plug, as you’ll need to put it back in place once you’re finished.
### **3. Insert the drain auger**
Insert the drain auger into the cleanout pipe. The auger is a long, flexible cable with a small hook on the end. Turn the auger clockwise to feed it into the pipe.
### **4. Feed the auger into the drain**
Continue feeding the auger into the pipe until you feel it hit an obstruction. Once you’ve hit the obstruction, turn the auger counterclockwise to break it up.
### **5. Pull the auger out**
Once you’ve broken up the obstruction, pull the auger out of the pipe. Be sure to remove any debris that may be clinging to the auger.
### **6. Replace the cleanout plug**
Once you’ve removed the obstruction, replace the cleanout plug. Tighten the plug securely to prevent leaks.
### **7. Run water through the drain**
Turn on the water and let it run through the drain for a few minutes. This will help to flush out any remaining debris and ensure that the drain is clear.
### **Tips for unblocking a kitchen sink drain outside:**
* If the obstruction is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a drain snake instead of a drain auger. A drain snake is a longer, more powerful cable that can be used to clear even the most stubborn clogs.
* If you’re not comfortable using a drain auger or snake, you can call a plumber to unblock the drain for you.
* To prevent future clogs, be sure to dispose of food scraps and grease properly. Avoid pouring grease down the drain, as it can solidify and cause clogs.
* Regularly run hot water through the drain to help prevent grease and soap scum from building up.
## How to Unblock a Kitchen Sink Drain Without Chemicals
If you’re looking for a more natural way to unblock a kitchen sink drain, there are a few things you can try:
### **1. Use baking soda and vinegar**
Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug or stopper and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes. Then, flush the drain with hot water.
### **2. Use a salt and lemon juice mixture**
Pour 1/2 cup of salt down the drain, followed by the juice of 1 lemon. Cover the drain with a plug or stopper and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes. Then, flush the drain with hot water.
### **3. Use a potato**
Cut a potato in half and insert it into the drain. The potato will help to dislodge any debris that is causing the clog.
### **4. Use a wire hanger**
Straighten out a wire hanger and create a small hook on the end. Insert the hanger into the drain and try to hook the debris that is causing the clog. Once you’ve hooked the debris, pull it out of the drain.
### **5. Call a plumber**
If you’re unable to unblock the drain yourself, call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to quickly and effectively remove the clog.
## How to Prevent Kitchen Sink Drain Clogs
The best way to prevent kitchen sink drain clogs is to avoid putting things down the drain that can cause them. Here are a few tips:
* Avoid pouring grease down the drain. Grease can solidify and cause clogs.
* Dispose of food scraps properly. Food scraps can attract bacteria and cause clogs.
* Regularly run hot water through the drain to help prevent grease and soap scum from building up.