Try these first
Use a cup plunger with enough water to cover the cup, and seal any second basin or the dishwasher air gap. A drain snake or hand auger can pull out a clog close to the sink.
- Plunge firmly for 20 to 30 seconds
- Remove and clean the P-trap under the sink with a bucket underneath
- Flush with hot, not boiling, water and dish soap
Why to avoid harsh drain chemicals
Chemical openers can damage older pipes and fittings, are hazardous to handle, and can leave a plumber working in caustic water if they fail. A mechanical clearing is safer and more thorough.
Habits that cause clogs
Never pour cooking grease down the drain. Wipe pans into the trash, use a strainer, and skip fibrous and starchy scraps in the disposal.
When to call a plumber
If several fixtures drain slowly, water backs up into another sink or tub, or you hear gurgling from drains, the problem is likely deeper in the main line, and it needs proper equipment.
Need a hand?
If it is more than a simple fix, we are a call away in Clifton and nearby towns.