Three Easy Ways To Unclog a Kitchen Drain

Toss Out That Drain Cleaner – Here's the RIGHT Way To Unclog The Kitchen Sink 

On TV, drain cleaner commercials dazzle viewers with 3D models of the product slicing through clogs. These commercials claim that one can get back to using their once-clogged sink drain in minutes with just a spoonful of Drano, Liquid Fire, or Liquid Plumr. However, that couldn't be farther from the actual truth. Drain cleaner can wreak havoc on one's plumbing system – and a homeowner might not even notice the damage until it's too late. 

Instead of using corrosive chemicals, homeowners can employ three easy methods to clear away clogs. Some DIY drain cleaning tips include: 

Pouring Hot Water Down the Drain

Many homeowners swear by this method simply because it works for most situations. Boiling water can dissolve any built-up grime, grease, or blockages that obstruct the drain. It's also a great way to get the drain itself sparkling clean. 

Yet, if homeowners have PVC piping, they should stay away from this method. The boiling water could warp the pipe itself, causing leaks, flooding, and other issues. One should only use this method if one knows that they have metal pipes, such as copper. 

Also: this method should be avoided if the clog is made out of grease and fat. The boiling water could melt the grease and fat together, leading the substance to congeal into a hard-to-remove substance. Even if the congealed substance makes it into the sewer system, it could morph into a "fatberg," which is a giant mass of grease, fat, and waste. 

Using Baking Soda and Vinegar 

Baking soda and vinegar aren't just for science fair volcanoes; it's also a great way to address a kitchen sink clog. When mixed, baking soda and vinegar create a new substance that releases carbon dioxide. This gas "lifts' stains from the surface, making them easy to wipe down or wash away. 

The solution also works for clogs. By "lifting" the clog's edges, one can dislodge an obstruction and wash it down with warm water. Here's how to do it: 

• Remove the drain strainer
• Clear away any food residue that's collected around the drain's holes
• Take a 1 ⅔ cup of baking soda and a ½ cup of vinegar
• Mix the two, eliminating any clumps of baking soda
• Pour it down the drain
• Wait five minutes
• Run warm water down the drain
• Repeat as necessary

Reaching Out to a Professional Drain Cleaning Service 

Sometimes, a clog is just too big to attack with DIY measures. There comes a time when it's best to call in a professional. After inspecting the drain, its pipes, and the clog itself, a kitchen plumbing service professional may: 

• Use a drain snake: The plumber may slide a drain snake down the drain to remove the blockage. The length of the drain snake depends on how deep the clog is. 
• Remove a pipe: A plumber may locate the clog using magnets, an auger, or another tool. If it's easier to remove a pipe and manually remove the clog, they may use that method. 
• Use a hydro jet: For especially severe clogs, a plumber may use a "hydro jet," a tool that sends high-pressurized water through the drain, forcing the clog to either fall apart or move into the sewer main. 

A plumbing professional can also explain what measures could prevent clogs. They might even recommend installing new parts if clogs are a chronic issue. 

About S and J Plumbing 

S and J Plumbing are more than a drain cleaning service; it's a community staple. These professionals offer same-day service, online scheduling, and honest pricing options. Homeowners in Arlington Heights can call these professionals today for drain cleaning services!

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