How to clean a clog in a sink at home

The problem of a clogged sink appears from time to time in any home. This is a natural phenomenon that occurs during the operation of plumbing equipment. However, to solve such a problem it is not at all necessary to be a professional plumber or to resort to his help.

The sink drain system has a simple structure. If the blockage really formed within the premises, and not in the general sewage system, it can be removed independently. But first, identify possible causes leading to frequent clogging of the sink.

Causes of clogged sink pipe

Most often, the drain pipe is clogged for the following reasons:

1. Reducing the inner diameter of the pipe due to the formation of deposits of organic and inorganic origin on its surface.
2. Foreign objects entering the sink during operation.
3. The appearance of scratches on the inner surfaces of the pipes due to mechanical damage, which inhibits the flow of waste water.
4. Illiterate installation, namely the wrong angle of inclination of the sewer pipe.

Preparation for cleaning

Before you begin, clean everything that is stored under the sink. Remove the filter screen from the sink and clean it of debris.

Stock up with floor rags and a container where dirty water will merge.

If the sink is empty, pour hot water into it.

Cleaning the sink with a plunger

1. Install the plunger nozzle by pressing it firmly to the sink drain hole.
2. By rhythmic movements back and forth, create strong pressure inside the pipe, forming a water hammer.
3. Try to remove as much debris as possible from the drain by actively working as a plunger.
4. Do not allow contaminated water to go back into the hole. To do this, immediately cover the drain with a mesh that filters them. If there is no net, plug the sink with a stopper and pump out all the water with garbage.

The duration of the action depends on the result. If the water begins to actively withdraw, we can assume that the goal is achieved. After this, it is advisable to immediately carry out prophylaxis. To do this, pour a special cleanser into the drain and rinse it with plenty of water.

Cleaning the sink with a plumbing cable

1. Place the cable in the drain hole, pushing it into the depths of the pipe until you come across a blockage. Most often, trash accumulates in the siphon or in the pipe itself.
2. Having reached the clogging point, turn the cable clockwise. Try to push or break the resulting cork.
3. When it becomes obvious that the water is leaving, push the cable into the pipeline as far as its length allows. This will help eliminate the possibility that the jam is stuck in the middle of the path.
4. If everything worked out, the cable is removed, and the sink is washed well with hot water and powder.

Sometimes manipulations with the cable through the drain hole do not lead to the desired result, due to the fact that the blockage is deep. In this case, you will have to disassemble the sanitary wiring and try to clean the pipeline with a cable from the knee and then in the direction of the sewer pipe.

Siphon cleaning

1. Place a suitable container under the sink to collect water.
2. All drain systems have a similar structure and quickly disassemble. Remove the connecting elements through which the siphon is attached, on the one hand, to the drain hole of the sink and, on the other, to the corrugated pipe.
3. Empty the bucket and clean the siphon. It is necessary to remove not only accumulated debris, but also greasy deposits. Use a dishwashing detergent to remove oily deposits.
4. Check the condition of the pipe itself. Inspect for clogging or body fat. Rinse the pipe with hot water and powder.
5. Install the sink drain system in its place - in the same order as it was disassembled.

The above steps are enough to solve the problem with a serious blockage. But the sink can be cleaned without resorting to mechanical methods. To do this, there are many chemicals, both cheap and expensive.

Cleaning sinks with soda and vinegar

The safest and most environmentally friendly way to remove the blockage is to use soda and vinegar. These substances are cheap and are always available in any kitchen. They help to dispense with the use of expensive and specialized chemical-based products.

Application

• Pour a glass of baking soda into the drain hole.
• Pour in the same amount of vinegar solution.
• Leave this mixture for about 40-50 minutes so that both substances dissolve the blockage.
• Wash away the rest of the chemical mixture with hot water.

Soda and vinegar enter a chemical reaction and act on the blockage, dissolving it. If after the procedure the blockage is not completely eliminated, all steps must be repeated.

Pipe cleanser

When you can’t solve the problem by simple means, you can use specialized cleaners. According to the form of release, dry and liquid products are distinguished. Dry can be in the form of powder or granules, sold in a foil bag for one application. Substances in this form are the most concentrated. Liquid or gel cleaners are softer, it is safer to use them for pipes.

Depending on the active substance, they can be acidic and alkaline. Alkali has the ability to dissolve fatty contaminants, such a tool is ideal for a sink in the kitchen. Acids have a devastating effect on plastic and metal, shortening the life of the pipeline, but quickly removing clogging.

Today, there are a large number of chemical cleaners from different manufacturers. The most famous brands:

Mole - a means of domestic production. It has a budget price and high efficiency. Eliminates blockages and unpleasant odors.

Tyreth - according to consumers, one of the best tools. Suitable for both plastic and metal pipes.

Mister Muscle - It is considered an effective tool for prevention and for light blockages. The claimed action is the destruction of bacteria in sewer pipes.

Application

1. Instructions for the use of such funds are usually standard. It is important to worry about safety in advance: to ensure good ventilation in the room, put on rubber gloves on your hands.
2. It is necessary to measure the right amount of substance. The dose depends on the nature and complexity of the blockage - detailed information is indicated on the package.
3. Pour liquid into the drain hole of the sink.
4. Now it is necessary to withstand the time indicated on the package. After that, rinse the system thoroughly with hot water by opening the tap for 10 minutes.

Blockage prevention

Regular maintenance of the sewer system will help prevent frequent blockages. To do this, install the filter screen on the drain hole. It will not allow large particles of food or other debris to enter the pipe. Periodically pour special cleaners or a mixture of soda and vinegar into the drain to prevent accumulation of plaque on the inner surfaces of the pipes.

To cope with this unpleasant household problem is easy. Use the methods described in the article for cleaning the sink drain system. Be patient and you will achieve the desired result.

Video: pipe cleaning at home