How to Unclog A Sink Drain Pipe Without Calling A Plumber
Clogs happen. Hair, soap buildup, food particles and nearly any other substance can clog a drain, and you don't always have the time or funds to call and wait for a plumber. Large plumbing problems require a licensed professional, but clogs in otherwise healthy pipes usually can be cleared with a few tools and some elbow grease. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Rags
- C-clamp
- Plunger
- Bucket
- Pipe snake
- Adjustable wrench
- Electrical tape
- Adjustable pliers
- Teflon plumbing tape
Instructions
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1
Release, remove and clean the drain stopper, if applicable. Most bathroom sink drains use a pop-up stopper, which stays in place and collects debris every time you use the sink. Sometimes this alone will solve the problem.
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2
Stuff rags into the overflow drain holes and the drain of any additional sinks attached to the clogged drain. Pinch the dishwasher water supply tube closed with a C-clamp. Make sure there are two to three inches of water in the sink, then place the plunger head over the drain. Pump the plunger ten times, then check to see if the drain is clear. Repeat several times. Remove the rags and C-clamp.
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3
Insert a pipe snake into the drain. Crank the handle to release the snake until you feel resistance. Crank the snake back toward the drain opening. Continue to work the snake until the clog clears.
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4
Locate the U-bend beneath the sink, place a bucket under it and remove the cleanout plug with an adjustable wrench. Insert a pipe snake into the cleanout opening until you meet resistance, then work the crank back and forth to remove the clog. Replace the plug.
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5
Wrap the head of a pair of adjustable pliers with electrical tape to create a non-slip surface, then remove the drain trap beneath the sink. Clean the trap, then insert the pipe snake into the drain, remove any debris and replace the trap.
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