Should I try to fix my blocked sink?

Blocked sinks drains are definitely one of the most common plumbing problems in homes and businesses across Melbourne.  The very purpose of a kitchen sink is to have dirty dishes washed in it; however, these common human behaviours strongly increase the possibility of experiencing a clogged sink drain:

• not scraping food scraps from plates into a bin prior to washing dishes
• removing the drain filter (which then allows food scraps to enter the drain)
• pouring grease and oil directly down the sink

If I have a blocked sink drain should I try and fix it myself?

Fortunately, a clogged sink if recognised early enough, is a job you definitely can attempt a DIY fix on.  Visit our blog on 6 tips on how to unblock a sink.

The key to unclogging a sink is early intervention

Blockages in your sink drain generally build up over time so noticing the early signs your drain is starting to block, is critical in being able to unblock your sink yourself. View our blog on 5 signs you have a blocked sewer.  If left to gurgle away in the hope it will unclog itself the blockage will become more severe and you will end up needing to call an expert local plumber.

What do I need to unblock a sink?

The best and the most inexpensive DIY plumbing tool you should keep in your toolbox at home to unblock a sink, shower or handbasin drain is the humble plunger. Read our blog on 10 plumbing tools every household should have.  The easy-to-use plunger is your go-to when you first notice your sink not draining properly.  If you don’t have a plunger, one can easily be purchased at your local hardware store. View our blog on the best DIY plungers to buy at Bunning.

How to use a Plunger to Unclog a Sink

Blocked waste pipes on sinks, basins, baths and showers can often be cleared using very hot water and a plunger.  You will need to fill the bowl with hot water, place your plunger over the waste hole and plunge for approximately 30 seconds.  The plunger will bring the sludge from the drain back up into the bowl.  Make sure there is always water under the plunger and you are wearing safety glasses and gloves.  If it is just a build up of scum in the pipe the drain will clear after a few attempts at plunging.  Remove the sludge from the bowl and rinse the drain out with hot water.

When a plunger just won’t unblock a sink

When you’ve exhausted all your DIY options and your sink drain just won’t clear then it's time to call in a professional expert plumber.  It’s important to call in your local plumber as soon as possible, as if left untreated, not only will the problem become worse, it will become more expensive to fix and you risk having unsanitary water overflowing in your sink.  Over 33 years of plumbing experience in Melbourne tells us blocked drains can quickly go from being a minor problem to an emergency plumbing problem and usually at the worst possible times like on a public holiday, when you have friends over or on a long weekend.

Call an expert blocked sink plumber

An expert local, blocked-drain plumber will have all the professional equipment and local knowledge to be able to unblock your sink drain quickly and get your home sewer system running freely again.

After unclogging your drain the team at Essendon Plumbing Services will carry out an extensive CCTV sewer camera inspection of your drains to identify where and what caused your blockage and if any further repairs need to be carried out.

Essendon Plumbing Services has been in business for more than 33 years and has over 100 years of combined experience of unclogging sink drains in Melbourne.