What to Do When Sink Is Blocked in Cumbria

Have you ever found yourself standing in front of a blocked sink in Cumbria, North West England, unsure of what to do? As Drainage Cumbria, a blocked sinks company in Cumbria, we understand the frustration and inconvenience caused by blocked sinks. In this landing page, we will guide you on what to do when faced with this common problem.

Understanding Sink Blockages

Before we dive into the steps to take, it's important to understand the common causes of sink blockages. Sinks become blocked when substances or debris accumulate in pipes, restricting the water flow. The buildup can be due to various elements such as grease, soap, hair, food particles, and other foreign objects. When left unaddressed, the blockage can cause water to back up, leading to an overflow and eventual flooding.

Sink Blockage Removal Methods

There is a range of methods that you can use to remove sink blockages. Some are simple and can be done with readily available materials in your home, while others require professional help from a blocked sinks company like Drainage Cumbria. We will take you through each of these methods step-by-step.

Use Vinegar and Baking Soda

Vinegar and baking soda are common household items that can be used to dissolve sink blockages. Heres how to use them:

1. Pour a cup of baking soda into the sinks plughole, followed by a cup of vinegar.
2. Immediately cover the plughole with a cloth or stopper, creating pressure.
3. Allow the contents to sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove the stopper and pour boiling water down the plughole to clear the pipes.

Use a Plunger

A plunger is a common tool used to remove sink blockages. First, cover the plughole with petroleum jelly or dish soap. This creates an air-tight seal that allows the plunger to work effectively. Heres how to use a plunger:

1. Fill the sink with enough water to cover the plungers head.
2. Place the plunger over the plughole and begin pumping up and down quickly.
3. Keep pumping until the water starts to drain. This indicates that the blockage has been cleared.

Use a Wire Hanger

If the blockage is deeper in the pipe, you may need to use a wire hanger. Straighten the wire hanger and bend one end into a hook. Heres how to use the wire hanger:

1. Remove the plughole cover and insert the hooked end of the hanger into the pipe.
2. Pull the hanger back and forth, using it to scrape the sides.
3. Remove any debris and repeat the process until the water flows freely.

Unscrew the Pipe

If the above methods don't work, it may be time to unscrew the sinks pipe. This will require basic plumbing skills, so if you're not confident, call a professional like Drainage Cumbria. Heres how to unscrew the pipe:

1. Place a bucket underneath the sink to catch any water that may spill out.
2. Locate the nuts that connect the pipes to the sink.
3. Loosen the nuts using pliers or a wrench, and remove the pipe.
4. Use a wire hanger or brush to remove any debris from the pipe.
5. Reassemble the pipe, ensuring that the nuts are tightly secured.

Preventing Future Sink Blockages

After successfully removing a sink blockage, it's important to prevent future blockages by taking preventive measures.

1. Avoid pouring grease, oil, and fat down sinks, instead pour them into a container and dispose of them in a bin.
2. Install sink strainers to catch food debris, hair, and other objects.
3. Regularly clean the plughole and pipes using vinegar and baking soda or hot water.

Contact Drainage Cumbria

If the above methods don't work and your sink remains blocked, don't hesitate to contact Drainage Cumbria, a blocked sinks company in Cumbria, at 01228 734162, or email us at [email protected]. Our professional team of engineers will inspect your sink and use effective methods to clear the blockage.

Conclusion

Blocked sinks are a common problem that can cause frustration and inconvenience. It's important to understand the causes of sink blockages and the various methods to remove them, as well as preventive measures to avoid future blockages. If your sink remains blocked, don't hesitate to call Drainage Cumbria for professional help.