Three Easy Tips for Unclogging a Blocked Drain

How To Fix a Clogged Kitchen Sink 

A kitchen sink clog is more than inconvenient; it can cause problems in other areas of the home. Before reaching for that bottle of Draino, think twice. Pouring chemicals down a kitchen’s drain is one of the worst things a homeowner can do to solve the problem. These corrosive chemicals wear down a home’s pipes and can cause irreparable damage. 

Homeowners can do three easy things to eliminate clogs without relying on chemicals. Some of these measures include:

Pouring Hot Water Down a Clogged Sink Drain

Here are some things to consider: 

• Do not use this method if the clog is made of oil, fat, and grease. The boiling water can bind these components together, creating a sludge ball that can be very difficult to remove. 
• If a home has PVC pipes, pouring boiling water down the drain can melt the pipes. If the pipes don’t melt right away, they could start leaking over time. 
• Pouring hot water down the drain shouldn’t be one’s go-to for removing clogs. It should only be used once in a while if the clog is a purely organic material and the pipes are metal. 
• A professional drain cleaning professional can determine what measures could work best for a clogged drain. They may use a drain snake or another method to remove the blockage. 

Use a mixture of Baking Soda and Vinegar 

Many people know that baking soda and vinegar combine to create foamy, bubbling carbon dioxide. They can work together to break down organic material. Here’s how to use baking soda and vinegar for clogs: 

• Pour warm water down the drain.
• Pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar down the drain.
• Cover the drain and wait five to 10 minutes.
• Remove the drain cover.
• Pour warm water down the drain again. 

This is generally a safe method for most homeowners to use. For instance, if a home has PVC pipes, the baking soda and vinegar solution will not hurt the pipes. However, if the clog is made of fat, oil, and grease, the solution could make the clog coagulate––making it difficult to remove without proper tools. 

Scheduling an Appointment with a Kitchen Plumbing Service Professional 

While DIY drain cleaning measures can address short-term problems, one should have their plumbing system assessed at least once a year by a trained professional. An expert will look for: 

• Leaks
• Old, rusted pipes
• Drains that chronically clog 
• Poor water pressure 

A professional may use a host of measures to eliminate clogs, such as using drain snakes, removing old pipes, and even evaluating the sewer main in front of the home. 

About RCL Mechanical 

RCL Mechanical is available 24/7 to help homeowners in the Taunton, MA, area. They offer flat-rate pricing and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for experienced technicians and professional service in Raynham, MA.

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