Why Is Your Kitchen Sink Not Draining?

A clogged kitchen sink can quickly escalate from an annoyance to a serious issue. Clogged sinks are unsanitary, inconvenient, and can be a massive problem for your plumbing system. There are a few causes of clogged sinks, and a few remedies may help. However, hiring professional plumbing services in Vancouver is the best course of action to ensure your clogged sink is handled the first time appropriately. If you experience a clogged kitchen sink, it is most likely caused by food scraps or a buildup of soap or grease. 

Buildup of Grease and Oils

The accumulation of grease inside drain pipes is a common problem that can cause frustrating results. When fat and oils accumulate inside your kitchen drain pipes, it can block the flow of water and lead to an overflow from the affected plumbing fixture. Drains clogged with grease and oils can cause a smelly, unhygienic mess very quickly. 

If you suspect a blockage because of grease and oil, a plunger can help to alleviate the problem. You can sanitize your regular plunger or buy a sink-only plunger from your local hardware store. First, try softening the clog with warm water. Next, ensure the plunger is placed precisely over the drain. Pump a half dozen times before rerunning the water. Repeat the process a few times to try and remove the clog. If this does not work, you should call a professional plumber. 

Accumulation of Soaps and Chemicals 

When soap residue and certain chemicals react with the fatty acids inside a drain, soap scum is created. Also referred to as lime soap, soap scum can accumulate in drains over time, causing slow water and clogged drains. Soap scum attracts mould, making clogged drains even worse. Soap scum can also adversely impact your family’s health as it promotes the growth of bacteria and germs in your plumbing system. Chemicals can also build up in kitchen drains, causing similar problems to soap scum. 

Buildup of Food Scraps

Food scraps commonly cause clogged drains, even if you have a garbage disposal. Some food scraps should not be placed down the drain, and some food can cause significant clogs if placed in the drain in large amounts. Food scraps create significant blockages that can damage your plumbing system over time, necessitating expensive repairs. Food and liquids, including grease, oil, oyster shells, artichokes, eggshells, and corn husks, should never be discarded in a kitchen drain. 

For minor clogs, making a solution of baking soda, vinegar, and water may break down the material inside the drain and save you from more significant issues. Using baking soda and vinegar can break down harmful chemicals while also sanitizing hazardous materials. Mix a cup of fresh baking soda with a cup of regular white vinegar. Pour the solution down the drain in intervals, running warm water in between. 

Benefits of Calling a Professional

Plumbing systems are complex, and homeowners risk making the problem worse if they do not have the correct tools to complete a job. Calling a plumber is the best course of action for a clogged drain to ensure your plumbing system is not further damaged. 

Work With an Expert

Do you have a clogged drain in your Vancouver home that is not responding to home remedies? It is best to call a professional plumber to ensure your drain is handled correctly and your plumbing system is not further damaged. 
Call Handyman Connection today to help with your clogged drain. We can help homeowners and business owners with many services, including repairs, remodels, and renovation jobs. Our technicians are experienced and can fix your clogged drain in no time at all. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.