Imagine quickly washing the dishes in your double kitchen sink as you’re rushing your way out only to find out that the water isn’t draining.
A clogged sink is a common household nightmare. The kitchen is both an important and sensitive space. It’s heavily used, you rely on it a lot, but it’s also at risk of contamination.
A clogged sink isn’t only an inconvenience, it can present health hazards when not resolved immediately and properly. Here are some tips to help you unclog a double kitchen sink with standing water.
Pour some boiling water.
Let’s start with the simplest possible remedy. Several agents can cause your sink to get clogged. They include oil, grease, debris from food, and even objects, such as earring locks. Pouring some boiling water on your double sink may not be able to address all types of culprits, but it may offer help in clearing up pipes. Boiling or hot water helps melt grease and fat. Before pouring, scoop out excess water using a small bucket. Check if the water drains after you’ve poured hot water. You may need to do this repeatedly to see improvements. You may also use your kitchen sink taps if they dispense hot water.
Try resetting your garbage disposal.
If that doesn’t work still, try resetting your garbage disposal. Switch it off first to ensure it isn’t overheated. Then, try to turn it on again and check if the water is already moving. A garbage disposal works to collect and break down solid food waste into fine pieces, so they’re easier absorbed into the chamber wall. However, it may lead to a clogged sink when it starts to wear or malfunction. Even if you have garbage disposals, be cautious of the waste you’re placing on your sink. Eggshells and fat must not be disposed of in the kitchen sink. If pouring hot water and resetting garbage disposal still isn’t enough, try using a plunger.
Try a kitchen plunger.
This part may be messy, so set your mind for it. Since you’re working on a double sink, cover the working sink first to focus all the pressure on the clogged sink. Once that’s done, it’s time to position the plunger. Make sure there’s remaining water to at least cover the plunger cup. Make a tight seal and then push the plunger evenly six times and see if there are changes. You may need to try again if there seems to be no effect, but if it already worked, pour some boiling water into the system again to help dislodge grease and fat that may have built up.
If these 3 options still don’t work, try removing the sink trap and see if you can spot any debris. You may try removing them using improvised tools, such as a coat hanger. But if the pipe seems clear, you may need to contact a professional plumber for assistance.
Addressing a clogged double kitchen sink is a trial and error process. You never know which will work. Unless you immediately spot the cause of clogging, you may need to try a couple of potential solutions first.