A clogged or slow-draining sink is a common problem many homeowners face. Whether it’s in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry, a sink that won’t drain properly can disrupt your daily routine and lead to unpleasant odours and water damage. If you’re facing this issue, there are several steps you can take to resolve it before needing to call in a professional plumber.
This article explains the causes of clogged sinks, provides DIY solutions, and explains when it’s time to contact experts.
Understanding the Cause of a Clogged Sink
Before tackling the problem, it’s essential to understand the possible reasons why your sink won’t drain properly. Sinks can become clogged for several reasons, including:
- Food Scraps (Kitchen Sinks): Food particles, grease, and oil often wash down the drain in kitchen sinks. Over time, these substances accumulate and cause blockages.
- Hair and Soap Scum (Bathroom Sinks): Bathroom sinks commonly get clogged with hair, soap scum, and toothpaste. This debris can create a thick build-up that slows down or completely blocks the drain.
- Foreign Objects: Items like jewellery, toys, or other small objects can fall into the drain and obstruct the flow of water.
- Mineral Build-up: Hard water can cause mineral deposits in your pipes, narrowing the flow and leading to clogs over time.
- Tree Roots: If you have outdoor plumbing, tree roots can invade pipes, especially older ones, and cause blockages.
What Can You Do to Fix a Slow or Blocked Sink
- Plunger
A plunger is the go-to tool for clearing a blocked sink and is effective for tackling many minor clogs. Pro Tip: For best results, use a plunger with a rubber flange designed for sink drains.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar
A simple, eco-friendly approach to unclogging a drain involves using baking soda and vinegar. Here’s how:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Follow with half a cup of vinegar.
- Cover the drain and let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Flush with hot water to clear the drain.
- Boiling Water
Boiling water is effective for breaking down grease and soap build-up. It’s an easy solution, especially for kitchen sinks. Simply:
- Boil a kettle of water.
- Carefully pour the hot water down the drain in stages, allowing it to work through the blockage.
- Repeat if necessary.
Note: Be cautious when using boiling water on PVC pipes, as they can soften and warp under extreme heat.
- Sink Snake or Drain Auger
If the blockage is deeper within the pipes, a sink snake (or drain auger) is an excellent tool. These flexible devices allow you to reach further down the drain and dislodge clogs caused by hair, food, or debris. To use:
- Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it as it moves down.
- Once you feel resistance, keep twisting to break up the clog.
- Pull the snake out slowly, clearing the blockage.
Using a sink snake can be a bit tricky, but with some patience, you can clear more stubborn blockages that don’t respond to plunging.
- Plumbing Chemicals (Use with Caution)
If natural remedies don’t work, you can try commercial drain cleaners. These chemicals are designed to break down organic matter causing the blockage. However, use them sparingly:
- Follow the instructions carefully, as overuse can damage your pipes.
- Avoid using these chemicals on older pipes, as they may cause corrosion or leaks.
If you’re unsure about using these products, it’s best to consult with a professional plumber. Additionally, understanding the common causes of clogged drains, such as grease build-up, hair, and foreign objects, can help you prevent future plumbing issues.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried the methods above and the drain is still slow or completely blocked, you may be dealing with a more severe issue. Here’s when you should reach out to blocked drain experts:
- Repeated Clogs: If the sink won’t drain even after you’ve cleared it, there may be a larger issue with your plumbing system, such as a blockage further down the line or a pipe that’s damaged.
- Bad Odours: If there’s a foul smell coming from the drain, it could indicate that there’s something more than just a minor clog. This could signal the presence of stagnant water or bacterial growth in the pipes, requiring professional cleaning.
- Slow Drainage in Multiple Sinks: If multiple sinks or drains are backing up at the same time, it could be a sign of a more severe issue, such as a problem with the main sewer line. Additionally, gurgling sounds coming from your sink can be frustrating and often indicate underlying plumbing issues. If you’re wondering how to fix a gurgling sink, start by checking for blockages in the drain or vent pipes, as these are common culprits causing the issue.
- Burst Pipes or Severe Blockages: If you suspect a pipe has burst or if there’s an obstruction in your sewer line, it’s crucial to contact a professional immediately to prevent significant water damage.
If your plumbing issues persist despite your efforts, calling a professional not only ensures a lasting solution but also supports water conservation by preventing unnecessary waste.
How Apex Plumbing Services can help
At Apex Plumbing Services, we have over a decade of experience serving Sydney residents with a wide range of plumbing needs, including blocked drains. Our expert plumbers are equipped with advanced tools to quickly diagnose and fix your drainage issues, ensuring your plumbing is restored to normal.
Whether it’s a simple blockage or a more complex issue, we are committed to providing honest and affordable plumbing services. Our team uses the latest technology, including CCTV cameras and high-pressure water jetting, to efficiently clear your blocked drains without damaging your pipes.
We understand that plumbing issues can arise at any time, which is why we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services. So, if your sink refuses to drain, don’t hesitate to call Apex Plumbing Services today for reliable service.