Dealing with a clogged double sink can be a frustrating experience, especially when both sides of the sink start filling up with water. Whether it’s food scraps, grease, or some other culprit causing the issue, a clogged double sink often needs special attention to clear properly.
If you’ve been wondering why your double sink is clogging or looking for effective ways to solve the issue, our guide from Nationwide Plumbers has you covered. Read on for tips to fix double sink clogs and get your kitchen running smoothly again.
Common Reasons for Kitchen Sink Blockages
When it comes to double sinks, clogs are often caused by a buildup of food particles, grease, soap, or other materials that accumulate over time. Here are some of the top reasons why your double sink may be clogging:
- Grease and Fat Accumulation: Cooking grease is one of the primary culprits for clogs. As grease cools, it solidifies in your pipes, leading to stubborn kitchen sink blockages that can slow or completely stop water flow.
- Food Waste Build-up: Even with garbage disposal, some food particles don’t break down completely and can eventually cause clogs. Foods like coffee grounds, pasta, rice, and fibrous vegetables are particularly troublesome and can clog your double sink over time.
- Soap and Detergent Residue: Soap and detergent can contribute to clogging by combining with minerals in your water to form soap scum, which clings to the insides of pipes and traps other debris.
- Poor Pipe Design: In some cases, clogs occur due to outdated or poorly designed plumbing. Double sinks are often set up with complex pipe arrangements, which makes them more prone to blockages.
DIY Steps to Fix a Double Sink Clog
Before calling a professional, you can try a few simple methods to tackle the clog yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to clear a double kitchen sink blockage and avoid further plumbing issues.
1. Plunge the Sink
Plunging is often the easiest and quickest way to clear minor clogs in a double sink. Follow these steps:
- Fill one side of the sink with enough water to cover the plunger cup.
- Place the plunger over the drain, ensuring a tight seal.
- Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
- Remove the plunger to see if the water drains. If one side of the double sink is clogged, repeat the process on both drains to help dislodge the blockage.
If plunging doesn’t do the trick, move on to other methods.
2. Try Baking Soda and Vinegar
This natural solution can break down clogs without using harsh chemicals. Here’s how:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda down the sink drain.
- Follow with ½ cup of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, which helps to break up the clog.
- Allow it to settle for 15-20 minutes, then flush the sink with hot water.
Repeat as needed, but if the clog persists, it may be time to try another approach.
3. Check the P-Trap
The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe under your sink that can often collect debris, causing clogs. Here’s how to inspect it:
- Position a bucket underneath the P-trap to collect dripping water or food debris.
- Remove the slip nuts on each side of the P-trap and detach it with care
- Clean out any buildup you find inside and reassemble the P-trap.
- Run hot water to check if the clog has cleared.
If the P-trap was the issue, this should restore normal drainage to your double sink.
4. Use a Drain Snake
A drain snake or auger is an essential tool for tackling more persistent clogs. Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Insert the snake into the drain and rotate the handle to guide it further into the pipe.
- If you encounter difficulties going deeper, this likely means you’ve located the clog.
- Turn the handle of the auger to break up the clog or pull it out.
- After removing the snake, run hot water to ensure the clog is completely cleared.
When to Call an Emergency Plumber in Brooklyn
If none of the above methods work, or if you’re dealing with recurring clogs, it might be time to reach out to a licensed plumbing service in Brooklyn for assistance. Double sinks are particularly prone to tricky clogs, and a professional plumber can address the issue with advanced tools and expertise.
Our emergency plumbers in Brooklyn use high-powered solutions like hydro jetting or specialized augers to completely clear the clog and prevent future issues. Additionally, they can inspect your pipes for any underlying problems, like corrosion or poor alignment that may be contributing to frequent clogs.
Preventing Future Clogs in Your Double Sink
To keep your double sink from clogging up again, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Dispose of Grease Properly: Dumping grease down the drain is a guaranteed recipe for pipe clogs. Instead, chuck it into a container and throw it in the trash.
- Use Drain Covers: Install drain covers in both sinks to catch food scraps and other debris.
- Run Hot Water: Run hot water through your sink after each use, which helps break down any grease or soap residue.
- Avoid Hard-to-Dispose Items: Don’t let coffee grounds, pasta, rice, or fibrous vegetables go down the drain.
Where Can I Find a Reliable and Licensed Company for Plumbing Repair Near You in Brooklyn?
If you’re still facing trouble with your double sink clog or experiencing frequent drainage issues, Nationwide Plumbers is here to help. As your reliable emergency plumbers in Brooklyn, we specialize in drain cleaning and plumbing service in Brooklyn to resolve any issue you’re facing, from minor blockages to major pipe repairs.
With our professional tools and expert techniques, we can help keep your kitchen sink flowing smoothly and ensure a long-term solution for your plumbing needs.
Call Nationwide Plumbers now for fast, reliable service and expert plumbing and drain cleaning solutions.