Unclogging a Drain

One does not need to actually get a plumber the minute a drain gets clogged. Here are some easy to follow steps in managing a clogged drain before you call a professional.

The first thing to do is remove the sink stopper or strainer. Clean out any material stuck in the top of the drain or on the stopper. Test water flow. If there is an overflow. If there is an overflow opening, block it with a wet cloth and fill the sink to about full.

Get a plunger and place it over the drain and rapidly pump it up and down, around ten times. The key is to abruptly lift the ump on the last stroke. If the water rushes out, you've unclogged the drain. Otherwise, try several more times before giving up.

If the plunger fails, you will have to get into the trap under the sink. Place a bucket or pail under before unscrewing the plug. Let the water run out.

If there is no plug, remove the trap itself by unscrewing the two coupling nuts. Start with the higher one. Clean the stoppage by hand or with a wire. Replace the plug.

If all else fails and you are positive that some food chunks are the ones causing the clog, use a chemical liquid declogger with care to avoid getting burnt. If this does not work, go call a plumber.