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March 21,2023

How Do You Unclog a Drain with Standing Water?

The most used sink in residential buildings is the kitchen. This means there’s a high chance it can clog during simple tasks like cleaning and cooking. When you notice a slow or completely blocked sink, it is common to rectify the issue with a plunger and brute force. However, this is not the only method to clear the buildup in the sink. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Youngstown, we assess the severity of damage and recommend a viable solution to restore flow and efficiency. Let’s look at common ways to unclog a sink with standing water.

By Hand

The easiest way to clear a minor clog is by hand. Use a bucket to remove standing water and dump it in a functional drain. Once all the water is removed, inspect the drain for food particles and debris accumulated in the bottom sink. A flashlight can help get a better visual if the clog is further down. Wear latex gloves to reach the drain and clear the buildup safely. If this doesn’t work, hire a skilled plumber or try the next drain clearing technique.

Use a Plunger

First, remove the stagnant water in the sink to prevent splashing as you plunge. A bucket is ideal for scooping as much water as possible and dumping it in a functional drain. Plug the drain not clogged with a rag or stopper to build. This helps to ensure air pressure doesn’t escape through the second sink. Place the plunger over the clogged drain and plunge up to ten times while keeping the seal intact. Remove the plunger and run water into the sink to test the drain. If the issue persists, leave the heavy lifting to a licensed plumber or try the next method.

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Use a Natural Drain Cleaner

Once you remove all the water from the clogged drain, measure one cup each of white distilled vinegar and baking soda. Pour the baking soda and vinegar into the drain and cover it with a rubber stopper or plug. Let the mixture combine for an hour, and then test the drain. If water still backs up, consider a more effective drain cleaning alternative, hiring a plumber. We leverage innovative drain cleaning equipment like hydro-jetting, safely clearing the blockage without risking corrosion.

Unclog with a Drain Snake

The first step is to clear the stagnant water and dump it outside or in a functional drain. Place the empty bucket under the loosened P-trap before setting it aside. Insert the drain snake into the drain until it comes into contact with the clog. Rotate the auger’s head to break the clog, or grab it with the hooked head and pull it out. Re-attach the P-trap and run water into the sink to see if the problem is fixed.

Regardless of how you clear a clogged sink, schedule routine inspections and maintenance with a professional plumber. Contact us at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Youngstown to learn how to clear drain blockages effectively. We offer top-notch drain cleaning services at friendly rates.

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