Kitchen Clog? No Problem! 3 Simple Solutions
While people most commonly think of clogged toilets being a problem that can stop an entire household, a clog in the kitchen sink can be almost as bad. A clog in the kitchen sink can signal trouble for the dishwasher draining, and the whole cooking and cleaning process can come to a screeching halt. This article will present three common and easy solutions to kitchen clog woes.
Fix #1: The Boiling Water Trick
One of the simplest ways to clear a sink clog is to boil water and then pour it slowly and carefully down the drain. This works because hot water can help dissolve food residue that may be solid at room temperature but becomes liquid (or at the very least more pliable) when exposed to temps above 200℉. The water will hasten the release of this garbage from the pipe and open up the drain.
The problem with this method is that it cannot get everything. Though water is called the universal solvent, it cannot break up everything. Some things may be left in the pipes to create a web of trash that will clog the pipe again.
Fix #2: Elementary Science Experiment
Many people know how to make an “erupting volcano” for a second-grade science project. Sodium bicarbonate, better known as baking soda, makes a frothy mess when vinegar is added. This chemical reaction can also be used for DIY drain cleaning. The beauty of this drain cleaning method is that it is safe for pipes and uses common household ingredients.Steps for Cleaning a Drain Using Baking Soda and Vinegar:
- Drain as much water as possible. This method does not work well if it is diluted.
- Pour baking soda into the drain. Try to pack a good amount down into the pipes, don’t allow it to just sit on top.
- Slowly pour the vinegar into the drain.
- Allow the chemical reaction to take place. The gas that is created can help push the clog open.
- Repeat steps two and three as needed. Using boiling water in an alternating fashion may help increase the chances of the clog breaking.
- Enjoy the success of an open drain.
Fix #3: Call the Plumbing Technicians
If do-it-yourself isn’t working, it is time to call in the professionals. Plumbers have two main methods of drain cleaning that should provide a quick solution to the clogging problem. Those two methods are snaking (aka pipe augering) and hydro jetting.
- Pipe Augers: A medium pipe auger is usually used to clean kitchen plumbing. This tool sends a long cable with a spiral head down the pipe to break up the drain clog.
- Hydro Jetting: This method expels high-pressure water down the pipes and into the clog, effectively breaking it up and clearing the pipes.
About John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning
John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is family-owned and operated and is the only plumbing and HVAC company in Lincoln, NE, to win the BBB Integrity Award twice. The company has served the community since 1996 and offers flat-rate pricing. Call today for a licensed and insured technician in Lincoln, NE.
