How To Unblock A Sink With A Tubular Trap

Step 1: You will need:

bucket
bowl
plunger
kitchen towel
newspapers
wire
cloth
bleach or disinfectant

wrench

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