Extend and Rotate the Auger — Snake the Drain Line
Part of project
How to Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink · Step 4 of 5
In this video
Hold the main shaft of the auger steady with one hand. With the other hand, simultaneously push the handle down towards the shaft and turn it in a clockwise direction. This action extends the metal snake out of the protective tube and into the toilet's trap and drainpipe. The rotating motion helps the auger head to either break through the blockage or to hook onto it. Continue this motion until the entire length of the cable is extended or you feel the clog give way. You may need to pull back slightly and push forward again to work through the clog.
Goal: Clear the clog
- If you feel resistance, don't force it too hard. Gently work the auger back and forth while rotating to navigate bends or break up the clog.
- A sign that the clog is clearing is when the water level in the bowl begins to drop.
Used in this video
- Toilet Auger (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Plastic, Auger Type: Toilet auger, Cable Length: Short, Protective Features: Rubber boot to prevent scratching the toilet bowl) — To extend into the drain and clear the clog.
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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.
Extend and Rotate the Auger — Snake the Drain Line
Part of project
How to Unclog a Double Kitchen Sink · Step 4 of 5
In this video
Hold the main shaft of the auger steady with one hand. With the other hand, simultaneously push the handle down towards the shaft and turn it in a clockwise direction. This action extends the metal snake out of the protective tube and into the toilet's trap and drainpipe. The rotating motion helps the auger head to either break through the blockage or to hook onto it. Continue this motion until the entire length of the cable is extended or you feel the clog give way. You may need to pull back slightly and push forward again to work through the clog.
Goal: Clear the clog
- If you feel resistance, don't force it too hard. Gently work the auger back and forth while rotating to navigate bends or break up the clog.
- A sign that the clog is clearing is when the water level in the bowl begins to drop.
Used in this video
- Toilet Auger (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Plastic, Auger Type: Toilet auger, Cable Length: Short, Protective Features: Rubber boot to prevent scratching the toilet bowl) — To extend into the drain and clear the 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.