Plumbing

Posted in: Plumbing
Clearing a Sink Drain
By Martin Smith
Jul 17, 2008 - 2:58:23 PM

1. The clogged basin should be filled with a lot of water so that it covers the cup of the plunger.
2.  Apply petroleum jelly over the rim so the drain is sealed tightly.
3. You can consider using rags to block any sources of outflow like another sink and create vacuum.
4. Once it is tightly sealed, stroke strongly for at least 15 to 20 times.
5. Always try a few times before trying some other solution.


Chemicals:  If the drain is heavily clogged, do not make use of chemicals, as your skin may get burnt if they get blocked in a stuck drain. If this happens, you will have to use remedies for cleaning the clocks as well as the chemicals. Regular use of chemicals is also not recommended as these affect the metal pipes and can damage them.

1. Ensure proper ventilation in the room.
2. Rubber gloves should be worn along with the eye protectors.
3. There are alkalis to dissolve the grease and acids for soap, hair and other substances. Always read the labels and make sure that you use the correct cleaner.
4. Remember not to combine or mix the chemicals amongst themselves or with the plunger.
5. Do not lean over the drain as the chemicals throw toxic fumes and at times may suddenly boil up.


Drain auger: Also referred to as the “drain snake”, remember to make sure that the stops and filters have been removed before the auger is guided through the drain opening.

1. Always work with ease around the bends in the pipe. Rub it a few times to ensure proper cleaning. In case of toilets, there is a different kind of auger called ‘closet auger’
2. Pull it out and push it again a few times.
3. At times you may experience difficulties in pushing the drain auger through the opening. In such situations, consider pushing it through the system cleanout.

Using a drain auger is suggested to clean the drains. Firstly, the stopper should be removed and the auger should be pushed down the drain. Once inside, twist the handle through the clogged area and pull and push the auger a few times to clean the drain.
 
In case it is heavily clogged, make sure that the sink trap is removed first. For this, the couplings should be unscrewed, and then the auger should be pushed through to clean the clogged area.

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