Steps
The first step is to see if you can force the clog through the pipes using a plunger. Fill up the sink enough so the plunger is partially submerged in water. Next line up the plunger over the drain the push down the plunger several times and see if the water begins to drain out. Please note: this may be a little messy.
If
the
If the plunger does not work you need to remove the trap from the sink. The trap is located at the bottom of the pipe coming from the sink drain. The trap looks like a "J" shaped pipe.
Put a small bucket under the pipe and begin to turn the nut holding the trap in place. The water may begin to rush out so take your time in unscrewing the nuts. Once the water has drained out completely remove the trap.
Most of the time you will find food or other debris stuck in the trap. If so, then rinse out the trap in another sink or outside and then reinstall the trap.
If the trap is not clogged when you remove it then you can check to see if there is clog between the drain and the trap. If so then clear the clog and reinstall the trap.
If you do not find a clog in these two places then it is further down the pipes. This will require you to call a licensed plumber or go to Lowes or Home Depot and rent a Drill Snake.
If you rent a Drill Snake, it will look like a normal drill with a bif drum on the end of it. Simply insert the end of the drill bit into the pipe and squeeze the trigger to send the snake down the pipe. Try to get the snake completely extended,usually about 25 feet to clear the clog.
Tips and Tactics
It is worth it to try to Drill Snake to clear the clog. It is easy to use and will cost you about $35.00 for a 4 hour rental from Home Depot or Lowes versus $150 or more dollars for calling a plumber.
Links to Resources
www.lowes.com
www.homedepot.com
www.rotorooter.com
Links to Blogs and Forums
www.findplumbing.com
