When the sink drain is clogged or the water flows slowly, the first action to do is to unclog it. This process creates pressure in the pipes, unblocking the obstruction and allowing the water to flow and free the system. Since unclogging the sink does not require the use of caustic chemicals or direct contact with the pipes, damage to the plumbing system is unlikely. Here are some tips for using a plunger and clearing a clogged sink.
Steps
Step 1. Fill the sink with enough water to completely cover the rubber part of the plunger
If the sink already contains more water than needed to cover the plunger, there is no need to remove the excess.
Step 2. Remove the drain plug, if present
Some can be removed simply by unscrewing them from the top. Others need to be disconnected from the pin under the sink. Pull out the pin rod to disconnect it from the drain plug.
Step 3. Block the other openings
This creates enough pressure to be able to remove the obstruction.
- Press a partially wet rag into the overflow hole of the bathroom sink or sink.
- Ask another person for help to hold the wet rag over a sink opening if you are working on a model with a double sink. If this has a garbage disposal installed, the rag must block the sink which does not provide for disposal.
- Apply duct tape to the dishwasher's faucet to insulate it if the sink you're working on is connected to a dishwasher.
Step 4. Place the plunger directly over the drain to create an airtight seal
Step 5. Unclog the sink
Hold the plunger handle with both hands, one on top of the other. Press down as hard as you can, then quickly let the plunger rise. Repeat the up and down motion as quickly and as forcefully as possible, about a dozen times.
Step 6. Finally remove the tool by quickly breaking the hermetic seal
Check if the sink drains regularly. If not, repeat the process until the obstruction is removed.
Step 7. Finished
Advice
- If the water goes down slowly but the sink is not completely clogged, you can try to dissolve the obstruction before using the plunger. Pour 120ml of baking soda down the drain. Add 120ml of white vinegar. Let the dough fizz for about 2 minutes. Pour a quart of boiling water down the drain. This sometimes helps to dissolve the blockage, making the action of the sink plunger more effective.
- Wear rubber gloves to avoid contact with dirty water and improve your grip on the tool.
- Use a plunger with a narrow, high bottom and wide edges on a sink that has a garbage disposal. The traditional bell shaped one should be used for the bathroom or laundry sink.
