How to Fix a Stuck Sink Drain
- 1). Run water in the sink so a couple of inches of water is in the sink. Set the plunger lip around the rim of the drain firmly. Add water, if necessary, so the cup of the plunger is covered with water. This technique allows hydraulic pressure to force the clog free.
- 2). Pump the plunger up and down until suction is created. Continue pumping.
- 3). Pull the plunger off the drain, breaking the suction and allowing the clog to break free.
- 4). Repeat working the plunger in this manner to free the clog.
- 5). Remove the P-trap if the clog is far enough down the drain pipe that the plunger suction cannot reach. Do this by unscrewing the slip-nut with your hand or with a pipe wrench, then wiggling the trap until it comes apart. Pour the excess water in the trap into the bucket.
- 6). Inspect the P-trap for clogs or debris. Remove grease and other materials from the pipe.
- 7). Insert the hooked wire into the upper section of the pipe that connects to the sink to check if it is open and free of material that may have stuck to the walls. Remove any debris along the walls.
- 8). Check the lower pipe in the same manner for clogs or grease buildup. Remove the material if necessary.
- 9). Insert the drain snake into the lower end of the pipe. Tighten the set screw and turn the crank handle. This will allow a longer piece of the snake to move through the pipe, pushing through any clogged material it finds along the way.
- 10
Remove the snake from the drain and clean it. - 11
Replace the P-trap and screw the slip-nut into place. Tighten securely. - 12
Run ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar into the drain to remove any leftover grease and debris.