How To Unblock A Sink With A Tubular Trap
Unblock a Sink with a Tubular Trap. A sink can easily become blocked through everyday use and there is often no need to call a plumber as unblocking it is fairly easy. We show you two different methods to help you unblock a household sink
Step 2: Place newspapers onto the floor
Put some newspapers down onto the floor in case of any water spillage
Step 3: The Plunger Method
Block the overflow of the sink using some wet kitchen towel. This prevents air from escaping when you start plunging.
Using both hands, push the plunger down several times over the plug hole. This will force water through the waste pipe and hopefully dislodge the blockage.
Step 4: Removing the trap
If the plunger hasn't solved the problem you will need to remove the trap beneath the sink and examine it for blockages.
Step 5: Bale out the water
It's a good idea to bale out as much of the water in the sink as possible using a bowl or a bucket.
Step 6: Put the plug in
If your sink still has water in – like this, then you should put the plug in unless you want an impromptu shower later on.
Step 7: Position the bucket
The trap connected to the underside of the sink, typically a "U" shaped piece of drainage pipe. As all sinks are connected to the foul water drain of the property, the trap is full of water all of the time which creates a permanent barrier stopping smelly gasses from entering your home. Place the bucket underneath the trap below the sink
Step 8: Unscrew
Use either a wrench or your hands to unscrew the trap. Once both ends of the trap are fully loosened, remove it and empty the contents into the bucket
Step 9: Clear with wire
Use the wire to clear away any blockages both inside the trap and in the pipes.
Step 10: Replace the Trap
Carefully reposition the trap. Make sure to screw the nuts on tightly so that they don't leak.
Step 11: Test the sink
Run some water from the taps down the sink keeping an eye on the trap for leaks. If the sink does not back up again, you've completed the job.
Step 12: Pour some household bleach down the sink
Pouring some household bleach or disinfectant will cleanse your sink and clear away any remaining residue
