6 quick tips to fix a clogged sink

Whether it’s in your kitchen or your bathroom, a clogged sink is never convenient. Even if you’re careful about what you put down your drain, sometimes blockages are inevitable. In this blog, the plumbing experts at Martens Plumbing & Heating offer some quick tips that will help fix a clogged sink. If your situation is more severe and you need further assistance, call our experts. We offer regular and emergency service to clear out those frustrating clogs—24 hours a day, seven days a week. We’ll help you identify the problem and give you some tips to avoid a recurrence.

What Causes a Clogged Sink?

Though many things can clog a sink, there are some common culprits that are usually to blame. These include hair, soap, dirt, food waste, mineral buildup, or any other solid substance. When clogs occur, it’s important to address them right away. If you don’t, more serious plumbing backups can occur—and damage your plumbing.

How Can I Unclog My Drain?

Before you call in the Martens experts to tackle your clogged drain, try these quick tips first:

1. Remove visible blockages

Wearing rubber gloves, see if you can remove the blockage with your hands. If you can’t fit your hand down the drain or can’t seem to identify the source of the clog, move on to the next step.

2. Pour boiling water down the drain

Boil a large pot of water on your stovetop and pour directly down the drain. This is especially helpful if your clog is due to soap or grease because the water will melt these substances. However, do not try this method if you have PVC piping, since it could damage or even melt the pipes.

3. Try salt or vinegar and baking soda

Pour half a cup of salt down the drain, followed by boiling water. You can also make a mixture of one cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar. Pour down the drain, wait for it to bubble, and then follow with boiling water.

4. Use a plunger

A plunger may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you have a sink clog, but it works the same way as it does on a toilet. Plunge the drain several times and then rinse it with warm water. If the clog persists, try it again.

5. Check your garbage disposal

If the clog is in your kitchen sink, it may be that your garbage disposal is to blame. Try to reset the disposal by pressing the reset button, usually located on the side or bottom of the unit. Turn on your disposal again to see if that helps clear the clog.

6. Snake the drain

Use a snake to remove the clog. This tool has a spiraled coil that can reach down into the drain. Once you feel it hit something, retract the snake—hopefully, you’ll bring the blockage up with it. If not, try it again.

Martens—For All Your Plumbing Needs

Whether it’s a simple clog or a more severe problem, you can count on Martens for any plumbing concern. We specialize in traditional plumbing repair, as well as remodeling and new construction plumbing. We also offer free water analysis and will recommend the best water treatment for your situation and needs. Contact us today for more information or a free estimate on your next plumbing project.