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How Do You Drain a Slow Sink?

Published in Plumbing Maintenance 2 mins read

Here's one common method to drain a slow sink:

  1. Start with Boiling Water: Carefully pour boiling water down the drain. This can help melt away grease and other buildup.

  2. Baking Soda Treatment: Pour approximately ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.

  3. Vinegar Activation: Follow the baking soda with ½ cup of vinegar. You'll likely see fizzing – this is the chemical reaction working to break down the clog.

  4. Wait and React: Let the mixture sit and work for about 10 minutes.

  5. More Boiling Water: Pour another round of boiling water down the drain to flush away the loosened debris.

  6. Hot Water Rinse: Turn on the hot water faucet to run for a minute or two to completely clear out the solution and any remaining blockage.

Important Considerations:

  • Safety First: Be very cautious when handling boiling water to avoid burns.
  • Pipe Material: While this method is generally safe, be mindful of your plumbing. If you have very old or delicate pipes, excessive boiling water could potentially cause damage.
  • Repeat as Needed: If the sink is still draining slowly, you can repeat this process.
  • Alternative Solutions: If this method doesn't work, you may need to try other solutions, such as using a plunger, a drain snake, or chemical drain cleaners. However, consider the environmental impact of chemical cleaners.
  • Prevention is Key: Regularly flush your sink with hot water to prevent buildup, and avoid pouring grease or food scraps down the drain.

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