Slow drains are a pain, and when it’s the kitchen sink drain, it becomes a new challenge entirely. Different sinks tend to have different clogs, however. For example, showers have a tendency to collect hair, while kitchen drains struggle with grease and food particles. Below, we are going to take a look at ways to clear drains out, how you can avoid them in the first place, and when to call in the professionals.

1. Boiling Over, In The Best Way

When greasy residue finds a way into your kitchen sink drain, it may go down the drain in a liquid state, but it won’t stay that way for long. Greasy residues become solid as they cool, coating the inside of the pipes in the process.

This coating will get thicker and more durable as more of this substance builds up. This will eventually result in a slow draining, (or even completely clogged) sink.

To alleviate this problem, you could try this tried-and-true, homemade method! Boil a full cup or two of water on the stove. Pour a half-cup of baking soda down the clogged drain; followed by a half cup of white vinegar. Let it work its magic for roughly ten minutes.

Once this ten-minute period is through, turn the faucet on. Check if it’s visually draining faster. Since the clog usually contains a lot of greases, this boiling water cuts through most residue, thus removing the clog.

2. Plunger Time

If scalding water doesn’t improve the problem, then you may be looking at a tougher problem that isn’t related to build-up. If there is any backed-up water in the sink, remove as much as you can till you can see what’s going on at the base of the drain. Then, it’s time to get out the trusty plunger.

Place the end of the plunger over the drain opening and create a seal. From there, pull up and down rapidly several times, while maintaining air pressure with the seal. Quickly pull the plunger off the drain opening. Don’t forget to plunge both sides of the sink.

3. Remove the P-Trap

If neither of the above has been able to solve your problem, you’re likely looking at something trapped in your system. Large food particles like vegetable peels can become trapped in the curved pipe beneath the sink, known as the P-trap. To remove this piece, you will need pliers that specifically fit your system. Fair warning, water will spill from the trap when you take this piece out. Remove any debris or blockage you can see, then rinse out the pipe thoroughly before replacing it.

4. Use a Snake to Unclog Your Kitchen Sink

If you find that your P-trap doesn’t appear to be the problem, that clog could be located even deeper down the pipe. If that’s the case, you can use a drain snake to try to remove it. This is a process that is routinely handled by trained professionals, as the equipment is rarely on-hand with residential clients.

This method is a sure-fire way to either clear your drain completely or determine what is wrong with it while taking the next step towards repairs.

5. Keep Pipes Clean with Enzymes

There are natural enzymes that eat up organic matter. These were originally used to reduce the amount of organic waste buildup in septic tanks. Now, enzymes are available for all types of plumbing needs, and if properly maintained, enzymes can help keep the pipes clear of buildup.

Enzymes are not as effective at removing an existing clog immediately but are better served as preventative maintenance. Using them on clear drains to help keep small amounts of buildup out. Natural enzymes are much easier on your pipes, compared to chemical drain cleaners.

9 Things You Should Never Put Down Your Kitchen Sink or Garbage Disposal

• Grease – Coating pipes with build-up.
• Bones – Refuse to break down, can cause damage.
• Celery – Strings can disrupt and ruin disposal blades.
• Coffee grounds – Degrades into greasy sludge.
• Eggshells – Ground shells act as a forming base for grease.
• Corn husks – Strings can disrupt and ruin disposal blades.
• Artichokes – Strings can disrupt and ruin disposal blades, (see the trend?)
• Fruit pits – Refuse to break down, can cause damage.
• Potato peels – Peels can act as a forming base for more grease.

If you need professional assistance, Whipple Service Champions has the service you need. Book with us online here, or call for emergency service at 801-355-4433.