Introduction

Blocked sinks are among the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face. They are a nuisance that can easily disrupt your daily routine, and if left unchecked, can lead to more serious issues. Fortunately, cleaning a blocked sink pipe is not as difficult as it may seem. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to clean a blocked sink pipe in Cumbria. We are Drainage Cumbria, a blocked sinks company in Cumbria, and we have years of experience helping homeowners with their plumbing problems. So, let's get started.

You'll Need to Remove the Sink

Before we begin, it is essential to note that to clean a blocked sink pipe, you'll need to remove the sink itself. Removing the sink will give you access to the trap, which is the bend in the pipe that collects debris and prevents it from entering the main drain. Removing the sink may sound intimidating, but it's a relatively simple process that you can accomplish with a few basic tools.

Tools You'll Need

To remove the sink, you'll need a few tools, including:

• A wrench
• A bucket
• A towel or rag

These tools are all you need to remove the sink and access the trap. Once you have these tools, follow the steps below to remove the sink.

Hair and Other Debris

The most common cause of blocked sink pipes is hair and other debris that collects in the trap. To unblock the sink, you need to remove this debris. Here's how to do it:

1. Grab the Drain Place a bucket under the drain to catch any water or debris that may come out. Then, use your hand to grab the metal drainage plug in the centre of the basin and twist counterclockwise to remove it.

2. Use a Plunger If there's still standing water in the sink, you can use a plunger to force the water down the drain. Remove the basket strainer and then place the plunger over the drain opening. Make a seal with the plunger's suction cup and then pump it up and down repeatedly. This action may dislodge the blockage and allow water to flow freely down the drain.

3. Use a Drain Snake In cases where the plunger fails to dislodge the blockage, you can use a drain snake. A drain snake is a flexible metal wire with a corkscrew-like end that you can insert into the drain to remove blockages.

To use the drain snake, insert it into the drain until you meet resistance, then turn the handle clockwise. This action will engage the corkscrew end and allow you to grab the debris and pull it out. Keep turning the handle until you have removed all the debris.

Chemical Products

If the blockage is too severe or you cannot remove it manually, you can use chemical products to clear the drain. However, be cautious when using chemical products as they can be hazardous to your health and the environment.

Blocked Drain Products

Blocked drain products are designed to dissolve blockages in your plumbing system. They contain strong chemicals that can dissolve hair, grease, and other organic matter that block your drain.

To use a blocked drain product, pour it directly down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes. The product will dissolve the blockage, and you can then flush the drain with hot water.

Drain Unblock Powdered Product

Drain unblock powdered products work similarly to blocked drain products, but they're in powder form. They contain enzymes that break down organic matter to clear the drain. To use this product, pour it down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes. You can then flush the drain with hot water to clear the blockage.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

You can also use vinegar and baking soda to clear blocked sink pipes. Vinegar and baking soda are safe and natural alternatives to chemical drain cleaners. Here's how to use them:

1. Place a Large Pan Under the Sink Place a large pan under the sink to catch any water that may come out. Then, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain.

2. Add Vinegar Add vinegar to the drain, letting the solution fizz and bubble for several minutes.

3. Boiling Water Pour boiling water down the drain to clear any remaining debris.

Resetting the Disposal

If you have a garbage disposal and it's not working correctly, it can cause a blockage in the sink pipe. If you suspect that your garbage disposal is the problem, try resetting it to see if that solves the issue.

To reset the disposal, locate the small red button on the bottom of the unit and press it. If the unit is clogged, it will automatically shut off, and pressing the reset button will reset the motor.

Conclusion

Blocked sink pipes can be frustrating, but with the right tools and techniques, you can remove the blockage and have your sink working correctly again. Follow the steps outlined in this article to clean blocked sink pipes in Cumbria, and if you need further assistance, give Drainage Cumbria a call. We are a blocked sinks company in Cumbria, and our team of experts is always ready to help you with your plumbing problems. Contact us today at 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected].