How to unblock a kitchen drain

Are you dealing with a clogged kitchen drain in Adelaide? If your sink is filling up instead of draining, you might be facing a blockage caused by food scraps, cooking oils, grease, hair, or even steel wool. Fortunately, unblocking a kitchen drain isn’t too difficult. Follow our step-by-step guide to clear your drain efficiently.

Non-invasive option – Keep Your Hands Clean

For minor blockages, such as those caused by fat, oil, and grease, start by using hot water and detergent. If your kitchen sink isn’t draining properly, try pouring boiling water mixed with detergent into the drain. A plunger can also help push the water through. You can find a plunger at your local hardware store.

Avoid using baking soda and vinegar, as they often produce fizz but don’t effectively break down grease and grime.

If you’re searching online for solutions to unblock a kitchen drain, it might be time to move on to more hands-on methods.

Get your hands dirty and get under the sink

It’s time to get a little dirty and tackle the problem directly. Unblocking a drain is simpler than you might think, and it’s certainly less complicated than avoiding a volunteer shift at the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. Here’s what to do:

What are you working with?

It’s time to get your hands dirty and tackle the clog directly under your sink. This task might seem daunting, but it’s easier than it sounds. Here’s how you can get started:

Step 1: Preparation is Key

You don’t need a full hazmat suit for this job, but wearing old clothes isn’t a bad idea. Before you start, make sure to pull your pants up to avoid the dreaded plumber’s crack. Now, let’s prepare:

1. Clear out the space under your sink – You’ll need room to work.
2. Lay down an old towel – This will help catch any spills and keep your floor dry.
3. Grab a bucket or a plastic container – A wide, shallow container is ideal for catching any water that comes out.
4. Put on gloves – Short ones will do, but longer gloves might make you feel more protected.

Step 2: Unscrewing the Trap and Checking Your O-Rings

Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty:

• Locate the U-shaped pipe under your sink. This is called a trap, and it’s designed to hold water, preventing sewer gases from rising into your kitchen. Unfortunately, this is also where food scraps, oils, and fats tend to accumulate, causing blockages.
• Look for the O-rings on the trap. These are black rubber rings that act as seals. Pay attention to where they are when you unscrew the trap, so you know where to put them back later.
• Unscrew the nuts on either side of the trap. It’s a good idea to loosen each nut a bit before fully unscrewing them to control the water flow. Once loose, the water will spill out, but your container is there to catch it because you’re well-prepared!
• Tip the trap upside down over your container to remove any debris. Don’t be alarmed by what comes out—it’s all part of the process. Take the trap to another sink and give it a good rinse to ensure it’s clean. Also, check the O-rings for any muck. If they are worn or damaged, you’ll need to replace them to prevent leaks.

Step 3: Reattach the Trap

After cleaning the trap, reattach it to the pipes under your sink, making sure the O-rings are in place and secure. Tighten the nuts, but don’t overtighten them, as this could damage the rings or the pipes.

Step 4: Test Your Work

Turn on the water and see if it drains properly. If it does, congratulations! You’ve successfully unclogged your kitchen drain.

What If the Drain Is Still Blocked?

If your sink is still clogged after clearing the trap, the blockage might be further down the pipe. In this case, it’s best to call in the professionals. Contact Flowtec Plumbing and Gas—we’re here to help with all your plumbing needs!