How to Unclog Pipes Under Kitchen Sink
Clogged kitchen sinks are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as grease, food particles, and hair. If you’re dealing with a clogged kitchen sink, there are a few things you can do to try to clear the clog yourself before calling a plumber.
What Causes Clogged Kitchen Sinks?
There are a number of things that can cause kitchen sinks to become clogged, including:
* Grease: Grease is one of the most common causes of clogged kitchen sinks. When grease is poured down the drain, it can solidify and build up on the inside of the pipes, eventually causing a clog.
* Food particles: Food particles can also be a major contributor to clogged kitchen sinks. When food particles are washed down the drain, they can get caught in the pipes and start to build up, eventually forming a clog.
* Hair: Hair is another common cause of clogged kitchen sinks. When hair is washed down the drain, it can wrap around the inside of the pipes and start to build up, eventually causing a clog.
* Other objects: Other objects, such as toys, jewelry, and utensils, can also be flushed down the drain and cause a clog.
How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink
If your kitchen sink is clogged, there are a few things you can do to try to clear the clog yourself before calling a plumber. Here are a few simple methods to try:
1. **Use a plunger:** A plunger is a simple but effective tool that can be used to clear many types of clogs. To use a plunger, simply place the plunger over the drain and push and pull it up and down vigorously. The suction created by the plunger will help to loosen the clog and clear the drain.
2. **Use a drain snake:** A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can be used to remove clogs from deep within the pipes. To use a drain snake, simply insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to feed the snake into the pipe. Once the snake reaches the clog, you can use the hook on the end of the snake to grab the clog and pull it out.
3. **Use a chemical drain cleaner:** Chemical drain cleaners are a powerful option for clearing clogs, but they should be used with caution. Chemical drain cleaners can be corrosive and can damage your pipes if they are not used properly. To use a chemical drain cleaner, simply pour the cleaner down the drain and follow the directions on the bottle.
4. **Call a plumber:** If you are unable to clear the clog yourself, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and expertise to clear the clog quickly and efficiently.
Preventing Clogged Kitchen Sinks
There are a few things you can do to help prevent clogged kitchen sinks, including:
* Dispose of grease properly:** Never pour grease down the drain. Instead, pour grease into a container and throw it away in the trash.
* Use a drain strainer:** A drain strainer can help to catch food particles and other objects before they can get into the pipes and cause a clog.
* **Clean your drains regularly:** Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water. This will help to dissolve any grease or buildup that may be starting to form.