Opening Completely Clogged Drains
In some cases, using a simple suction cup will open a clogged sink drain.
First, remove the basket strainer from the drain. Run hot water until it stands about 2 inches deep in the sink.
Take a suction cup plunger and pump it up and down directly over the clogged drain. The water in the sink provides a seal. If the suction cup does not clear the drain in a few minutes, you will probably be forced to remove some of the pipes to get the job done.
If you cannot open the drain with the suction cup, open the cabinet under the sink and take a look. Notice the section of pipe beneath the sink that’s shaped like an “S” or a “P”? That portion of the pipe is called the trap, and it could be at the root of your problem.
Set a bucket or pan underneath the sink trap and remove the cleanout plug and washer.
Warning: Never remove a sink drain trap after chemicals have been added to the line without wearing protective gloves and eyewear. Always inform a plumber if chemicals have been added to a drain line so he can take proper precautions.
Use slip-joint pliers to loosen the slip nuts located on each side of the trap. Once the slip nuts are loose, unscrew them by hand and push them to the side. If the drain is only slightly clogged, a few quick probes with a screwdriver may breakup and clear the problem.
If the screwdriver doesn′t open it, use a snake or drain auger through the pipe. A drain auger works best if you rotate it, feed it in a short distance, and then rotate it again. This enables the drain auger to be inserted deeply into the pipe.
After the drain pipe is opened, replace the cleanout plug and washer. Run scalding water through the pipe to carry away any accumulations.
