Singapore Plumbing Works

Clogged Sink: Causes, Prevention and Solutions

Have you ever encountered a bathroom basin half-filled with dirty soapy water, unable to drain no matter how long you left it standing? Or perhaps you have been frustrated by the slow draining action of your kitchen sink, making it difficult to wash dirty dishes quickly?

Let’s delve into the depths of clogged sinks to uncover causes, prevention tips, and effective DIY solutions.

Understanding Clogged Sinks

Clogged sinks rank among the most prevelant plumbing issues in households.

Initially, water drainage slows down, eventually leading to complete blockage. This may result in dirty water overflowing from the sink or the sink trap, causing flooding on the floor.

Kitchen sink clogs create an even bigger mess as the water often contains a layer of oil, food particles, and emits a foul odour.

Common Causes of Sink Clogs

Sink blockages stem from various factors:

• Clogs at the water stopper area.
• Clogs within the sink drain.
• Major blockages in the drainage system leading to the sink’s drainage pipe.

Clogs are often caused by obstructions such as hair, food particles, solidified fats, or foreign objects in the drainage pipe. 

For choked kitchen sinks – one of the primary culprits is food debris that gets washed down the drain. Grease buildup is another common cause, especially in the kitchen where cooking oils can solidify and block the pipes. 

For bathroom sinks – hair accumulation is a frequent issue, along with soap scum and other residues. Hence bathroom basins commonly become choked due to a buildup of soap and hair in the trap or fixture drain line. 

To effectively remove these clogs, you will need to trace and identify the location of the blockage, whether it is in the sink traps or further down the drainage pipe.

Signs of a Clogged Sink

How do you know if your sink is clogged?

Well, there are a few telltale signs to watch out for.

First and foremost, if you notice that water is draining slowly or not at all, it is a clear indication of a clog. You might also hear gurgling noises coming from the drain or detect foul odours emanating from the sink.

These indicators signal the need for immediate action to prevent worsening clogs.

How to Prevent Sink Clogs

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to clogged sinks. Be mindful of what goes down the drain.

• Avoid washing large food scraps down the kitchen sink.
• Dispose of cooking oils in a separate container instead of pouring them down the drain.
• Use sink strainers to help catch debris before it reaches the pipes, thus reducing the risk of clogs.

How to Clear a Clogged Sink – DIY Methods

Effective DIY solutions include:

• Boiling water flush – you pour boiling water down the drain to dissolve grease and loosen clogs. 
• Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, which creates a foaming reaction that can help break down organic matter.
• Use a chemical drain cleaner to dissolve the clog in the drainage pipes.

How to clear More Stubborn Clogs

1. Start by checking the sink water stopper to ensure it’s clean and free of hair or food particles.
2. Use a plunger to break up the clog and force it down the sink drain.
3. For more stubborn clogs, try using a plumbing drain snake to dislodge difficult blockages, especially at sharp bends in the drain line.
4. Use a chemical drain cleaner to dissolve the clog in the drainage pipes.
5. If the blockage is at the sink trap, dismantle the trap, clear the clog, and reassemble it. For clogs further down the drainage pipe, you may need to clear the blockage from the sinkhole.

When to Call a Professional to Clear Choked Sink

While DIY methods suffice for minor clogs, persistent issues necessitate professional intervention. If you have tried multiple DIY methods and the clog persists, or if you notice signs of a more serious plumbing issue such as water backing up into other drains or sewage smells, it is time to seek immediate assistance.

Plumbing specialists possess the expertise and proper equipment to swiftly diagnose and resolve complex clogs.

Dealing with a clogged sink can be exasperating, but armed with the right knowledge and tools, you can tackle the blockage and prevent future clogs from occurring. Remember to be proactive about maintenance and address clogs promptly to avoid more significant plumbing issues down the line.

If you find all this work a hassle, don’t hesitate to contact Singapore Plumbing Works for swift and reliable assistance today!