How To Fix A Backed Up Kitchen Sink

A backed-up kitchen sink is a common plumbing problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including food scraps, grease, and hair. If your kitchen sink is backed up, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it yourself before calling a plumber.

1. Check the garbage disposal. If you have a garbage disposal, it may be clogged with food scraps. To check the garbage disposal, turn it on and run some water down the drain. If the water doesn't drain, the garbage disposal is likely clogged. You can try to unclog the garbage disposal by using a plunger or by pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of vinegar.

2. Clean the P-trap. The P-trap is a curved pipe that is located under the sink. The P-trap can become clogged with grease, hair, and other debris. To clean the P-trap, place a bucket under the P-trap and loosen the nuts that hold the P-trap in place. Once the nuts are loose, remove the P-trap and clean it out with a brush or a stream of water. Be sure to replace the P-trap correctly, or you could create a new leak.

3. Check the vent stack. The vent stack is a pipe that runs from the roof of your house to the sewer line. The vent stack helps to prevent sewer gases from backing up into your home. If the vent stack is clogged, it can cause your sink to back up. To check the vent stack, go outside and look for a pipe that is sticking out of the roof of your house. If the pipe is clogged, you will need to call a plumber to have it cleaned.

4. Call a plumber. If you have tried all of the above steps and your sink is still backed up, you will need to call a plumber. A plumber can use a variety of tools to unclog your sink, including a drain snake or a hydro jet.

Here are some additional tips for preventing your kitchen sink from backing up: