Down the Drain: Why Your Sink is Clogged & How to Clear It Like a Pro

Blocked sinks are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s your kitchen sink struggling to drain after doing the dishes or your bathroom sink clogging up with hair, a blocked sink can be a real inconvenience. At RDF Plumbing, we understand the frustration of dealing with a clogged sink, and we’re here to help you through why sinks get blocked and how to fix them effectively.

Common Causes of Blocked Sinks

There can be many causes why your sink may be blocked. Understanding the common causes can help prevent future issues and assist you in fixing the problem more effectively.

1. Food Scraps and Grease in the Kitchen

In the kitchen, food waste is a primary reason. While some food scraps may go down the drain harmlessly, regular disposal of food remnants, like coffee grounds, rice, and pasta, can create blockages over time. Similarly, grease and oils from cooking can accumulate in the pipes, forming stubborn clogs.

2. Hair and Soap Scum in the Bathroom

In the bathroom, hair and soap scum are the most frequent cause behind this. Hair strands, when combined with soap or shampoo residue, can easily build up over time and create a sticky, clog-prone mess. This is usually found in bathroom sinks, showers, and bathtubs.

3. Foreign Objects

In some cases, a foreign object may accidentally enter down the drain. This can include anything from jewelry to children’s toys. If an object causes a blockage deep in the pipes, it can be tricky to clear without a professional plumber’s help.

How to Fix a Blocked Sink

While some blockages are severe and require professional plumbing assistance, others can be resolved with a bit of DIY effort. Here are some DIY methods you can try to unclog a drain:

1. Boiling Water

For a blockage caused by grease or soap scum, pouring boiling water down the drain can help dissolve the clog. However, be cautious with PVC pipes, as boiling water can damage them. If you have plastic pipes, use hot water instead of boiling water.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

A natural solution to a blocked sink involves using baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by half a cup of white vinegar. The fizzing action helps break up blockages. This method is particularly useful for kitchen sinks clogged with grease.

3. Plunger

For a more stubborn blockage, a plunger can provide enough suction to dislodge the clog. Cover any other drain openings in your sink to ensure maximum pressure. With a bit of effort, a plunger may clear the blockage and restore flow to your sink.

4. Caustic Drain Cleaner

If all else fails, you can use a commercial drain cleaner, though this should be used as a last resort. Chemical drain cleaners can break down tough clogs, but they can also be harmful to pipes if overused. Always read the label and wear protective gloves when using these products.

5. Call a Professional

If the blockage persists, it’s time to call in the professionals. At RDF Plumbing, we have the tools and expertise to handle even the most difficult sink blockages. From high-pressure water jets to drain cameras, we can identify and resolve the issue without causing damage to your plumbing system.

Preventing Blocked Sinks

Here are a few tips to help you avoid a blocked sink:

• Kitchen: Never pour grease, oil, or food scraps down the sink. Use a strainer to catch food particles and dispose of them in the trash.
• Bathroom: Install a drain guard to catch hair and soap scum, and regularly clean the drain to prevent buildup.
• Routine Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on your plumbing by flushing drains with hot water and using natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and baking soda to keep things flowing smoothly.

When to Call a Professional

If your sink continues to drain slowly despite your best efforts, or if you notice foul odors coming from the drain, it’s time to call a professional. Our expert team is trained to tackle blocked sinks quickly and efficiently, ensuring your plumbing system remains in top shape.
At RDF Plumbing, we pride ourselves on providing immediate and professional service for all plumbing needs, including blocked sinks.