Every day we use the sink in the kitchen, and if there is a blockage and the water does not flow, it becomes a real problem that needs to be solved urgently. With every day of use of the sink, a plug forms inside the pipes, which accumulates fats and other food residues. As a result, we will find out about it only when it completely blocks the water drain. This phenomenon usually occurs in places where the drainage system has a bend, and it is difficult to get there. Let’s figure out how to clean the blockage in the kitchen sink yourself and not damage the pipes.
Causes of blockages in the kitchen drain system:
- accumulated fat and food residues;
- deposition of limestone and salts;
- old pipes affected by corrosion.
Mechanical cleaning
Mechanical cleaning methods include cleaning with a plunger and a special cable.
The plunger will help to cope with minor traffic jams and is easy to use. Fill the sink 1/3 full with hot water and pump the air in the pipe through the drain. It creates pressure that breaks the plug, but there is no guarantee that it will be able to be cleaned completely, maybe it will save you from the problem for a while, but it will not solve it permanently.
A plumbing cable can clear blockages in the sink much more reliably. It is a long cord, at the end of which there is a special nozzle that cleans it. It is necessary to slowly and with pressure insert the cable into the drain hole until it rests against the plug. Effort may be required, carefully screw in further. During such cleaning, turn on the hot water regularly, it will help clear the blockage in the kitchen sink. This cable cannot be used if the pipes are very rusted, as the impact of the metal cable on them can lead to destruction and failure. It is also not recommended to use it for plastic, chrome and brass pipes.
Chemical substances
Chemical industry means for removing blockages in pipes are diverse, differ in price and quality, the choice is always up to you. When buying such a tool, pay attention to what type of pipes it is intended for. They must be used according to the instructions. Usually it is a powder or liquid that is poured / poured into the drain hole and left for a while, then simply rinse with water. These agents are very effective, but also often very toxic. You need to work with them carefully to observe all safety measures.
Advice from housewives
Folk remedies always come to our aid, even in the problem of blockages. They are affordable and do not harm health.
Baking soda is the most affordable tool for many housewives. Fry 5 tablespoons of soda in a pan for 5 minutes, leave to cool. Add baking soda to a glass of water, mix and pour into the drain hole of the sink, leave for 7-8 minutes. To enhance the effect, you can use a plunger. We wash.
With baking soda and citric acid (vinegar), it is easy to clean blockages in the pipes. To do this, pour 5 spoons of soda into a plum, and pour a glass of citric acid (vinegar) solution. Leave on for 8 minutes, then rinse with water. Attention, do not use undiluted vinegar for plastic, brass or chrome pipes.
Salt and baking soda are mixed in the ratio of 1 tablespoon of salt and 2 tbsp. spoons of soda, dissolve the resulting powder in a glass of water and pour it into the kitchen sink. After 10 minutes, clean with a plunger and rinse with water.
Note:
- Clean dishes from product residues before washing, so you will protect your pipes from clogging;
- Install a net on the drain, this will also help keep the pipes clean.