Wellington Plumber: Common Causes of Blocked Sinks & How to Fix Them – Laser Plumbing Wellington East
Wellington Plumber: Common Causes of Blocked Sinks & How to Fix Them – Laser Plumbing Wellington East
A blocked sink is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a kitchen sink or a bathroom basin, blockages can lead to slow drainage, foul smells, and even potential water damage if left untreated.
At Laser Plumbing Wellington East, we regularly assist customers with sink blockages, ensuring a fast and effective solution. In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of blocked sinks and what you can do to prevent and fix them.
What Causes a Blocked Sink?
Blocked sinks usually occur due to buildup inside the pipes. Here are some of the main culprits behind sink blockages:
1. Food Scraps & Grease Buildup
If food scraps or grease are washed down the sink, they can build up over time, blocking the drain. Grease and fat harden inside the pipes, creating a sticky residue that traps other debris.
Prevention Tip: Always dispose of food scraps in the bin or compost, and avoid pouring oil or grease down the drain.
2. Soap Scum & Hair (Bathroom Sinks)
In bathroom sinks, soap residue and hair are common culprits for blockages. Soap can combine with minerals in the water to form a thick, sticky buildup, restricting water flow.
Prevention Tip: Use a sink strainer to catch hair and prevent soap buildup.
3. Incorrect Use of Waste Disposers
If you have a waste disposer, it’s important to use it correctly. Not running enough water before and after grinding food scraps can cause a blockage inside the disposer and the drainpipes.
Prevention Tip: Always run cold water while using your waste disposer and avoid overloading it with large amounts of food scraps at once.
4. Foreign Objects & DIY Mishaps
Accidentally dropping objects like toothpaste caps, cotton swabs, or jewelry can cause serious drain blockages. Attempting DIY fixes with the wrong tools can also worsen the problem by pushing blockages deeper into the pipes.
Prevention Tip: Be mindful of what goes down the sink and avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, which can damage your pipes.
How to Fix a Blocked Sink
If your sink is draining slowly or completely blocked, here are a few steps you can try:
Use a Plunger – A plunger can sometimes dislodge minor blockages. Make sure there is enough water in the sink to create a seal and plunge vigorously.
Try Hot Water – If grease or fat is the issue, pour boiling water down the drain to melt the blockage.
Use a Wet Vac – A wet vacuum can sometimes suck out the blockage if other methods fail.
Call a Professional Plumber – If the blockage persists, a professional plumber can dismantle the waste system and use a drain machine or high-pressure water tools to clear it.
Professional Sink Unblocking in Wellington, Lower Hutt & Kapiti Coast
If your sink remains blocked despite your efforts, it’s time to call the experts at Laser Plumbing Wellington East. Our experienced plumbers and drain unblockers use the latest tools and techniques to quickly and effectively clear your drains, preventing further damage and costly repairs.
