Why Does My Kitchen Sink Keep Blocking? Your Answers Here

Understanding the Issue: Why Does My Kitchen Sink Keep Blocking?

A plumbing issue like a kitchen sink that keeps blocking isn't just a minor inconvenience. This issue has the potential to not just interrupt your everyday activities but also create an unsanitary environment that can compromise the health and safety of your household.

When a kitchen sink keeps blocking up, it can happen for various reasons. Some of the main culprits include the accumulation of food particles, grease, and soap residue that can gradually build up inside the pipes and obstruct water flow.

As debris accumulates and clogs the pipes, over time, it can create bad smells in the kitchen. Stagnant water can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould which can pose health hazards to the occupants. Moreover, the blockage can put a strain on the plumbing system, leading to leaks. Overall, neglecting a blocked sink can result in costly repairs and significant inconveniences.

Reasons Why Your Kitchen Sink Keeps Blocking

Understanding the causes of why your sink keeps blocking is crucial for effectively tackling the issue and preventing future blockages. Here are some of the most common culprits of a blocked sink:

Food Scraps Accumulation

One of the main reasons is the accumulation of food debris. Even small particles of food can cause a buildup in the pipes and obstruct the drain. Items like coffee grounds, chicken bones, eggshells, and vegetable peelings are particularly notorious for causing sink blockages.

Oil And Grease Buildup

While it may be tempting to dispose of used cooking oil down the drain, this seemingly harmless practice can lead to pipe blockages. As oils cool down, they solidify and form residues that stick to the interior surface of the pipes. Over time, this buildup attracts other debris, completely blocking the pipes. Grease and oils also build up in the Overflow Relief Gully (ORG) which usually is outside the kitchen.

Soap Scum

While soap is essential for cleaning dishes and utensils, it can also contribute to sink blockages. Soap scum can accumulate on the walls of the pipes and narrow down the passage for water to flow through kitchen sink pipes.

Hair

While hair might seem more associated with bathroom drains, it can also contribute to sink blockages in the kitchen. Strands of hair can find their way into the sink and become tangled with other debris, creating a stubborn pipe obstruction. Don’t rinse off things like pet food bowls in the sink regularly.

Small Objects

Sometimes, unexpected items find their way into the kitchen sink and cause blockages. Objects like small bottle caps and bread tags and broken glass can easily become lodged in the pipes, disrupt water flow, and cause blockages.

How to Prevent Kitchen Sink Keeps Blocking for Good

There are several preventative measures you can take to keep your drains clear and flowing smoothly. Here are some effective tips to prevent sink keeps blocking woes:

1. Use Natural Drain Cleaners

Instead of using harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes and harm the environment, opt for natural drain cleaners. Ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and hot water can work wonders without causing any harm.

2. Regularly Flush with Hot Water to Clear Buildup

Periodically flushing your kitchen sink with hot water can help dissolve any buildup of grease and soap scum. Simply run hot water down the drain for a few minutes to keep your pipes clear and flowing smoothly.

3. Use a Plunger to Clear Minor Blockages

For minor blockages, a plunger can be your best friend. Simply place the plunger over the drain and plunge to dislodge any obstructions. This is a quick and effective way to clear your pipes from small obstructions.

4. Install a Drain Catcher to Trap Debris

A drain catcher or strainer can prevent food scraps, hair, and other debris from entering your drain and causing blockages. Make sure to clean the drain catcher regularly to maintain its effectiveness.

5. Avoid Pouring Grease and Oil Down the Drain

One of the leading causes of drain blockages is pouring grease and oil down the drain. Instead, collect grease in a separate container and dispose of it in the proper garbage bin.

6. Educate Yourself on What Not to Pour Down the Drain

Educate everyone in your household on what should never be poured down the kitchen sink. Implementing these practices promotes responsible waste management and preserves the full functionality of your home’s plumbing system.

Does Your Sink Keep Blocking? Call Eze-Flow Plumbing!