How To Clean Grease Out Of Sink Drains
If you notice slow water draining from your sink, it may be due to grease accumulation and other debris in your drain. If left untreated, it may cause unpleasant odors and inflict more significant plumbing problems. Fortunately, cleaning grease out of sink drains is a fairly simple task that can be done using household items. In this article, we will go over the steps to clean the grease out of sink drains and offer some tips to help prevent future buildup.
Before we begin, it’s important to note that if you’re experiencing persistent drainage issues or suspect a bigger problem with your plumbing, it’s best to call a plumbing repair contractor in Reno NV. They can help diagnose and fix any underlying issues, such as broken pipes or tree root intrusion, that may be contributing to your drain problems.
Now, let’s dive into cleaning grease out of your sink drain!
Steps To Clean Grease Out Of Sink Drains
• Remove Visible Debris:
Before attempting to clean out the grease, remove any visible debris from your sink drain. Use gloves to remove hair, food scraps, or other materials clogging the drain. You can also use a plunger to try and dislodge any blockages that may be further down the pipe.
• Boil Water:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully pour it down the drain. The hot water will help dissolve and flush away any remaining debris in the drain.
• Pour In Vinegar And Baking Soda:
Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of vinegar. Pour the mixture down the drain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. The baking soda and vinegar will work together to break down the grease and other buildups in the drain.
• Rinse With Hot Water:
After the baking soda and vinegar mixture has had time to work, flush the drain with hot water, helping wash away any remaining grease and debris.
• Repeat If Necessary:
If your sink drain is still not draining effectively, repeat steps 2-4 as necessary. You may need to do this several times if there is a lot of buildup in the drain.
• Use Enzymatic Drain Cleaners:
These environmentally friendly cleaners use enzymes and bacteria to break down organic matter – like grease – in pipes. Follow the instructions on the packaging and let the cleaner sit for the recommended time before flushing with hot water. Remember, enzymatic cleaners may take longer to work but are gentler on your pipes.
• Professional Plumbing Repair Services:
If DIY methods fail, it’s time to call a professional for plumbing repair in Reno NV. They will have the necessary tools, equipment, and expertise to effectively clean your sink drain of grease and any other obstructions.
Tips To Prevent Future Buildup
Now that you’ve cleaned out the grease from your sink drain, you’ll want to take steps to prevent future buildup. Here are a few tips to help keep your sink drain running smoothly:
• Use A Sink Strainer:
A sink strainer can help catch food scraps and other debris before they make their way down the drain.
• Avoid Pouring Grease Down The Drain:
Pouring grease down the drain is a surefire way to create buildup in your pipes. Instead, pour it into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
• Run Hot Water Down The Drain:
Running hot water down the drain after each use can help flush away any small amounts of grease or debris before they have a chance to build up.
• Use A Commercial Drain Cleaner:
Numerous commercial drain cleaners are available to help dissolve grease and other buildups in your pipes. However, be careful when using these products as they can be harmful if not used properly.