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How To Unblock A Sink

How To Unblock A Sink

Instructions

A sink full of slow draining water, or even worse, no drainage it all, is a sure sign of a blocked pipes. Blocked with all those scraps of food and crumbs that get down the plug hole everyday. Yuck. This isn't going to be a pretty job, but thankfully it's an easy one, and we at Homeserve are going to show you how.

Step1:
Before you start, get everything you need close to hand:

• A good sink plunger
• An adjustable wrench
• A bucket
• Some strong wire - a wire coat hanger will do
• Gloves, it will get messy
• And some disinfectant to finish up with.

Step 2:
Plug the overflow with some damp tissue or something similar to stop air escaping, and fill the sink with water. Push the plunger down over the plug holes and pump several times. The suction caused should remove the blockage and the water will easily drain away. Squirt a little disinfectant down the plug hole to finish the job off.

Step 3:
If the sink plunger didn't do the job you'll have to dismantle the pipes under the sink. Don't panic, this is easier than it looks. You will either have a U-bend, or a bottle shaped trap. With a U bend unscrew the retaining nuts at either end, with a bottle trap, unscrew the whole thing. Put a bucket underneath to catch any water first, otherwise that dirty water from the sink will end up on your floor.

Once removed, use your fingers, or a piece of wire, to poke out any blockage in the pipes. Beware- not only does it look grim, but it will also stink. Rinse the pipes well to get rid of every last bit of dirt, and give the seals a clean so they can do their job.

Step 4:
Put the system back together, firmly tightening all nuts. Lastly squirt a little disinfectant down the plughole to finish the job off.