How to Clear a Blocked Sink Drain

Plumbing systems always develop a blockage in one way or another. Most stopped-up sinks can be fixed without contacting a plumber. All you need to do is get the right tools for the job and a little determination. The first thing that most homeowners do is get a plunger and try plunging the sink. However, in some cases, the plunger will not work out. Here are some techniques that will help you dislodge nearly any clog in your sink.

Use Chemical Drain Cleaners 

There are many products on the market that are specifically designed to clear drains. They are poured directly into the blocked drain. The chemical will then dissolve the build-up and grease causing blockage in your drain. The cleaners contain ingredients that are specially designed to get rid of the germs that cause odour from a clogged drain. After using the cleaner, the odour will be gone, and any residual water in your sink will drain away smoothly.

It is important for homeowners to follow instructions whenever they use heavy duty cleaning products such as chemicals. This is because various types of blocked drains need different solutions. For instance, a blocked bath has to be handled differently from a blockage in a kitchen sink.

Use a Bent Wire Hanger

This method is simple and effective. Take your regular wire hanger and have it straightened out. Bend one of the ends to create a small hook.  Push the hanger with the hooked side first past your drain cover and start fishing. When you pull the wire out, you should be able to get all sorts of nasty staff such as hair from the drain. Have it in mind that you only want to pull the substance out and not push it further. When you pull out as much dirt as you can, run hot water through the drain to clear the remaining waste.

Remove the Pipe

In some instances, everything fails and there is still a blockage. In such a case, you may have to remove the clog manually by removing the drain pipe. Clogs usually form in the P-trap (the U-shaped part of the drain pipe).  Normally, this section has a nut on both ends. The nuts can be twisted easily to remove the P-trap. However, if your pipes are metallic, you can use an adjustable spanner or channel locks. Always ensure you have a bucket underneath the P-trap just before you start removing. The bucket is useful for holding all the dirty water that comes out.

If the clog is too elusive or large for you, then you can go ahead and hire a plumber to take care of it.