A clogged kitchen drain can be a frustrating, messy problem. This is especially true when the cause is a buildup in grease. Untreated, grease-filled drains will cause slow drainage and foul odors. They can also lead to plumbing issues. In this article we will discuss how to unclog grease-filled kitchen sinks. We will also provide new ideas and tips to keep your sink free of grease.
- Boiling Water with Dish Soap – This is an easy and effective way to clear grease clogs. Start by pouring boiling water down the drain. It will soften the grease and melt it. Then, squirt a generous amount (about a cup) of dish soap down the drain and let it sit a few seconds. Then flush the drain with boiling water to remove the soap residue and grease. The combination of boiling hot water and dish soap breaks down the grease to allow it to flow through the pipes.
- Baking Soda Vinegar: Baking Soda Vinegar will work wonders in unclogging a grease filled kitchen sink. Pour a cup full of baking soda in the drain, making sure that it reaches all the clogged areas. Cover the drain with a plug, or a cloth to stop the fizzing. Let the mixture rest for about 15 to 20 minutes. This will help break down any grease. Final step: flush the drain thoroughly with hot water in order to remove all the grease and debris.
- Salt and Boiling-Water: A combination salt and boiling-water can help dissolve grease clogs and dislodge them from your kitchen sink. Pour a half-cup of salt into the drain. Be sure to reach the clogged areas. Let it sit a few moments to break down the grease. Pour boiling water down the drain next to flush out any dissolved grease or salt. The heat from boiling water helps liquefy grease while the abrasive salt helps scrub away any remaining residue.
- Enzyme Based Drain Cleaners Enzyme Based Drain Cleaners are an environmentally friendly and effective way to remove grease clogs. These cleaners are made with enzymes that break organic matter down, including grease. They do not damage your pipes. Follow the directions on the product, and pour the recommended amount down the drain. Allow the product to work overnight, or for the time specified on the packaging. After flushing the drain with hot, soapy water, you can remove the grease and debris.
- Plunger – Using a plunger to unclog an oiled kitchen sink can be effective. Make sure that there is enough liquid in the sink to completely cover the plunger. Apply petroleum jelly around the rims of the plunger for a better seal. Place the plunger in the drain and press down firmly. Then, quickly pull the plunger up to create a suction. Repeat the plunger motion a few times to clear the grease blockage. Flush the drain with warm water to remove any remaining residue.
- Plumbing Snake: If a stubborn grease clog persists, you can use a plumbing auger (also called a snake) to physically remove it. Insert the snake down the drain while twisting and pushing it. Rotate the snake when you feel resistance. This will help break up a grease clog. Slowly retract the serpent and any debris trapped in it should come out. Pour a complete removal of grease and debris, flush your drain with hot water.