Plunge the Drain — Use a Plunger
Part of project
How to Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink · Step 2 of 5
In this video
With the overflow sealed, place the plunger cup directly over the main drain, ensuring it is fully submerged in the standing water. Firmly grip the plunger handle with your free hand and perform a series of vigorous up-and-down strokes. Push down to create pressure and pull up to create suction. Continue this motion until you feel the clog give way and the water begins to rapidly drain. You may see debris come up from the drain, which indicates the clog has been broken up.
Goal: Dislodge Clog
- Start with a gentle plunge to force air out of the plunger cup, then increase the force for subsequent plunges.
- Be persistent. It may take several rounds of plunging to fully clear a stubborn clog.
Used in this video
- Plunger (Plunger Type: Cup plunger) — Creating pressure and suction to dislodge the drain clog.
201K subscribers
FAQs
Do I need to buy all the specialized tools, especially the drum auger, to unclog my double kitchen sink?
Not necessarily for every clog. Start with simpler tools like the HDX Sink and Drain Plunger. If that doesn't work, cleaning the P-trap requires basic pliers and a bucket. The Plumber's Choice 25 ft. Drum Auger is only needed for deeper, more stubborn clogs further down the drain line.
What are the most critical safety precautions I should take, especially since my double sink has a garbage disposal?
The absolute most critical step is to always disconnect power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker before performing any work near or inside the drain, even if you're working on the non-disposal side. Additionally, wear Heavy Duty Latex Gloves to protect your hands from grime and potential drain cleaner residue if any was previously used.
How long should a beginner expect this project to take, and is it genuinely a 'beginner' difficulty project?
For a simple clog cleared with a plunger, it might take 15-30 minutes. If you need to clean the P-trap, allocate 1-2 hours for setup, cleaning, and reassembly. Snaking a deeper clog can extend the project to 2-3 hours for a beginner. It's beginner-friendly in terms of steps, but patience and attention to detail are key.
When I try to plunge one side of my double sink, water just backs up into the other basin. How can I fix this?
This is a very common issue with double sinks due to shared drainage. To create effective suction with the plunger, you must completely seal off the drain opening of the non-clogged sink. Use a Universal Sink Stopper or have a helper firmly press a wet rag over the opening while you plunge the affected side.
Plunge the Drain — Use a Plunger
Part of project
How to Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink · Step 2 of 5
In this video
With the overflow sealed, place the plunger cup directly over the main drain, ensuring it is fully submerged in the standing water. Firmly grip the plunger handle with your free hand and perform a series of vigorous up-and-down strokes. Push down to create pressure and pull up to create suction. Continue this motion until you feel the clog give way and the water begins to rapidly drain. You may see debris come up from the drain, which indicates the clog has been broken up.
Goal: Dislodge Clog
- Start with a gentle plunge to force air out of the plunger cup, then increase the force for subsequent plunges.
- Be persistent. It may take several rounds of plunging to fully clear a stubborn clog.
Used in this video
- Plunger (Plunger Type: Cup plunger) — Creating pressure and suction to dislodge the drain clog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy all the specialized tools, especially the drum auger, to unclog my double kitchen sink?
Not necessarily for every clog. Start with simpler tools like the HDX Sink and Drain Plunger. If that doesn't work, cleaning the P-trap requires basic pliers and a bucket. The Plumber's Choice 25 ft. Drum Auger is only needed for deeper, more stubborn clogs further down the drain line.
What are the most critical safety precautions I should take, especially since my double sink has a garbage disposal?
The absolute most critical step is to always disconnect power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker before performing any work near or inside the drain, even if you're working on the non-disposal side. Additionally, wear Heavy Duty Latex Gloves to protect your hands from grime and potential drain cleaner residue if any was previously used.
How long should a beginner expect this project to take, and is it genuinely a 'beginner' difficulty project?
For a simple clog cleared with a plunger, it might take 15-30 minutes. If you need to clean the P-trap, allocate 1-2 hours for setup, cleaning, and reassembly. Snaking a deeper clog can extend the project to 2-3 hours for a beginner. It's beginner-friendly in terms of steps, but patience and attention to detail are key.
When I try to plunge one side of my double sink, water just backs up into the other basin. How can I fix this?
This is a very common issue with double sinks due to shared drainage. To create effective suction with the plunger, you must completely seal off the drain opening of the non-clogged sink. Use a Universal Sink Stopper or have a helper firmly press a wet rag over the opening while you plunge the affected side.