One of the most common pluming problems homeowners are confronted with is clogged kitchen sinks. Most homeowners just about panic when the kitchen sink becomes clogged because it usually occurs in the middle of preparing a meal. In addition, they have no idea how to remedy and prevent a clogged kitchen sink. Actually removing the clog is a very easy DIY plumbing task.

Cause of Kitchen Sink Clogs:

Kitchen sinks have a drain pipe beneath the sink for draining the sink. Because the kitchen sink is where dishes are washed during and after meals, leftover food often gets stuck in the drain. These small bits and pieces of food often cause the clog and prevent liquid from draining properly. Although the food particles are small, they can accumulate and with added oil and grease they can create a solid clog. When this happens it is nearly impossible for the liquid to pass through the pipes

How to Prevent Kitchen Sink Clogs:

Although food is the major cause of the clogs in the kitchen sink drain pipes, the soap which is used to wash the dishes could also worsen the problem by corroding the pipes itself. This corrosion can also cause sinks to clog. Running a stream of hot water can help in preventing the formation of clogs. The water provides a lubricant for melting and preventing the oil to form in the drain and prevent the clog. Another way to prevent clogs is to use a screen in the sink to prevent bits and pieces of food from going down the drain. The screen will catch the food particles before they enter the drain pipe.

How to Deal with a Clogged Kitchen Sink:

Just because there is a clog formed in the kitchen sink, it does not mean that the drain pipes have to be replaced. There are still things that could be done to clear the clog. One of the ways to remedy this problem is to use a plumbers snake. This will help locate the clog and push it down through the drain pipe. Once this is done, hot water should be used to flush the drain. Another way is to use an eco-friendly chemical to help remove the clog. Although there are many products on the market which can be used to remove the clog, some of them may be too harsh for the pipe itself. In addition, a plunger is often effective for unclogging a sink drain.

If all else fails, the drain pipe can be removed so the clog can be removed.

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