If you find that water isn’t draining from your sink like it used to, or if it backs up when you run the garbage disposal, there’s a good chance that your drain is clogged with grease. Grease is one of the most common culprits when it comes to clogged drains, and it can be tough to remove. But don’t despair—there are some simple steps you can take to unclog your drain and get things flowing again.
What are the best ways to unclog a grease-clogged drain?
Start with hot water
One of the simplest ways to break up and remove grease from your drain is to pour a pot of boiling water down it. The heat will help to melt the grease, making it easier to wash away. Just be careful not to use too much water at once—if the level in your sink rises too high, it could cause problems.
Use a plunger
If hot water alone doesn’t do the trick, you can try using a plunger to unclog your drain. Cover the overflow hole with the suction cup of the plunger, then plunge up and down several times to create a vacuum that can break up the clog. Be sure to use a plunger that’s the right size for your sink—if it’s too small, it won’t create enough suction.
Try a drain snake
If a plunger doesn’t do the trick, you can try using a drain snake to remove the clog. A drain snake is a long, flexible piece of metal with a spiral tip that you insert into the drain to break up the clog. You can find drain snakes at most hardware stores.
Use dish soap and baking soda
If you don’t have a plunger or a drain snake on hand, you can try using dish soap and baking soda to unclog your drain. First, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, then follow it with a cup of hot water. Next, add 1/2 cup of dish soap and let it sit for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, run hot water down the drain to flush away the clog.
Use vinegar and baking soda
If dish soap and baking soda don’t do the trick, you can try using vinegar and baking soda. First, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, then follow it with a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, then run hot water down the drain to flush away the clog.
What if none of these methods work?
If you’ve tried all of these methods and you’re still struggling with a clogged drain, it’s time to call a plumber. A professional plumber will be able to quickly identify the cause of your clog and take steps to clear it. In some cases, they may need to use a power auger or hydro jet to remove the clog. A professional plumber will also be able to identify any underlying problems with your plumbing and make recommendations for repairs or replacements.