This simple method of unblocking the drain saves you time and money, and better yet, anyone with a plunger or, if necessary, a vacuum cleaner can. No special skills are required. When the bathroom sink drains the water slowly, usually the problem is not the siphon but the stop mechanism. Furthermore, discharges do not "slow down" from one day to the next but it is a process that gets worse over time. Instead of buying an industrial liquid drain cleaner, try this method.
Steps
Step 1. Get the tools
Step 2. Close the overflow hole with a wet rag
Step 3. Open the faucet until the drain hose is full
Step 4. Use the plunger carefully and check if the material blocking the drain rises enough to be grasped
If you don't like the idea of using the toilet plunger for the sink as well, or if the tool is too large, buy a new or smaller one.
Step 5. If it doesn't work, switch to the liquid vacuum
Step 6. Put a bucket under the siphon (sometimes it is "S" or "P" or duck neck)
Step 7. Remove the siphon and make sure that the bucket is right underneath to catch the water that will come down
Step 8. Look ahead of you
There are two tubes, one vertical and one horizontal. The vertical one connects directly to the drain of the sink you are working on.
Step 9. Put the nozzle of the vacuum cleaner right above the drain stop trying to create the maximum possible grip
Step 10. Turn on the tool
Step 11. Hold the nozzle in place while, with the palm of the other hand, close the bottom of the vertical tube
This way you create even more sucking force.
Step 12. Move your hand a little to let some air in
Step 13. Repeat this a couple of times
This creates even more force in the suction and the removal of the block will be more effective.
Step 14. Pull the material out of the retainer
It will take a couple of minutes and you will have to work a little to extract this unpleasant substance.
Step 15. Reconnect the siphon
- Check the seals for any signs of wear before reassembling the siphon. This will save you future water losses.
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Screw in the nuts holding the drain first by hand and then tighten them 1/4 turn with a wrench or socket.
Advice
- Remember to unplug the siphon otherwise you won't be able to apply enough suction force to get the job done.
- When using the plunger you have to hold a cloth in all other openings to create the vacuum.
Warnings
- Avoid using aggressive chemicals in drains that are dangerous for you, pipes and the environment. Try mechanical solutions first.
- Do not over tighten the nuts.