How to drain blocked sink in Cumbria

Drainage Cumbria is the leading company for unblocking sinks in Cumbria, North West England. A blocked sink is a common issue that can occur at any point in time. A blockage may occur due to the accumulation of food particles, grease, or other materials in the sink. Blocked sinks can cause a significant inconvenience to homeowners, but don't worry, there are several methods for clearing a blocked sink. In this guide, we will explain the main causes of blocked sinks and provide you with multiple techniques for unblocking them.

Causes of blocked sinks

A blocked sink occurs when water cannot drain from the sink due to an obstruction in the plumbing system. The most common cause of a blocked sink is the accumulation of food particles, grease, or soap residue in the drain. Other common causes of a blocked sink are:

• Small Objects: Small objects like hairpins, dental floss, and cotton swabs can accumulate in the drain and cause blockages.

• Foreign Objects: Children, unfortunately, may put small toys or other foreign objects into the sink, which can cause a blockage.

• Build-Up of Sediment: Build-up of sediment, rust, or dirt can cause a blockage in the sink.

• Broken Pipework: A broken pipework may cause a blockage in the sink, and it may require professional plumbing services.

Techniques for unblocking a sink

There are various methods for unblocking a sink, from simple household products to more sophisticated tools. Here are some examples:

Clearing a blocked sink with boiling water

One of the most straightforward methods of unblocking a sink is by using boiling water. Boiling water can help break down the grease and other materials in the sink, allowing it to drain. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Bring a kettle or pot of water to boil.
2. While you are waiting for the water to boil, remove any standing water from the sink.
3. Pour the boiling water slowly down the drain, allowing it to penetrate the blockage. Be careful not to burn yourself with the hot water.
4. Repeat this process several times if necessary.

Clearing a blocked sink with a plunger

Another common and effective method of unblocking a sink is by using a plunger. A plunger creates a vacuum which sucks out the blockage in the drain. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Cover the sink overflow holes with tape to improve suction.
2. Fill the sink with water up to the halfway point.
3. Place the plunger over the drain, making sure that it covers the drain entirely.
4. Push down on the plunger in a vertical motion, and then pull up sharply. Repeat this process several times until the water begins to drain.

Clearing a blocked sink with a drain snake

If boiling water or a plunger doesn't clear the blockage, a drain snake may be the next step. A drain snake is a long, flexible rod that can reach far down into the drain and remove the blockage. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Purchase or borrow a drain snake from your local hardware store.
2. Remove the stopper or insert the drain snake into the sink.
3. Rotate the drain snake clockwise to move it down the drain. Keep rotating until you feel resistance.
4. Once you reach the blockage, push and pull the drain snake to break it up or pull it out.

Clearing a blocked sink with baking soda and vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are common household products that can be used to clear a blocked sink. Baking soda is an alkali that can break down grease and dirt, while vinegar is acidic and helps dissolve the blockage. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Pour one cup of vinegar down the drain immediately after the baking soda.
3. Cover the drain with a plug or cloth and wait for five to ten minutes.
4. Pour boiling water down the drain to flush out the blockage.

Clearing a blocked sink with bleach

Bleach can also be used to clear a blocked sink. Bleach can dissolve organic matter and debris that are trapped in the drain. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Pour one cup of bleach down the sink drain.
2. Wait for half an hour.
3. Run hot water down the drain to flush out the bleach and any debris.

When to call the professionals

If none of these above methods work, or if the blockage keeps reoccurring, you may need to call in professionals like Drainage Cumbria. We have the expertise and equipment necessary to deal with even the most stubborn blockages. Also, if you suspect that your sink blockage is due to a broken pipework, don't try to fix it yourself as it may make the issue worse. Call our plumbing experts, who can quickly identify and repair the problem.

Conclusion

A blocked sink can be frustrating to deal with, but fortunately, there are several ways to clear it. If you are still having trouble with a blocked sink, don't hesitate to contact Drainage Cumbria. Our team is here to help you 24/7, with a phone number of 01228 734162 and our email at [email protected]. Let us take care of your plumbing problems so that you can enjoy a fully functional sink once again. You can also visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk to know more about our services.