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How To Clear A Clogged Drain Trap

A clogged drain can quickly become a headache. However, some clogs can be easily fixed with just a few household tools. Our expert plumbers at Herman’s Plumbing came up with a simple guide on how to clean your drain trap. Following these steps will help you know exactly what to do the next time you face a clogged sink.

Firstly, knowing that your drain trap is the curved pipe underneath the sink is essential. It will look like the letter “U,” and its unique shape makes it vulnerable to clogs. This is the primary cause of most drainage issues, as debris, grease, hair, and soap scum can build up inside the trap. A partially clogged trap causes slow drainage, so keeping it clean and clear is essential.

If you have noticed slow drainage in your sink, we suggest clearing your drain trap to avoid a complete blockage. Begin by removing everything from under your sink to create a clear space to work. Then, follow these steps:

Grab a Bucket

Put a bucket under your drain trap to catch any water that might fall when removing your plumbing pipes.

Disassembly

Remove the two nuts that attach the trap to the sink end and the wall fitting. If these nuts do not move or come apart easily, it may be time to get a replacement trap.

Clear Out & Clean

It is recommended to clean the inside of your trap using either a large nylon bottle brush or a straightened wire coat hanger. Ensuring that all parts are thoroughly cleaned inside and outside is essential. Any small debris stuck between a drain washer and drainpipe can cause a leak, so cleaning everything properly is necessary. It is also suggested that all washers be inspected during this process. Flexible and soft washers are ideal, and if they appear crusty and hard, they will no longer seal, and it’s time to replace them.

Bring Out The Snake

If you have checked your drain trap and it appears clean and clear, the next step is to use a small retractable drain snake to clear any blockages in the wall pipe. To do this, insert the drain snake into the pipe and work it in and out while rotating the handle clockwise. This will help clear any potential blockages and ensure your drain functions correctly.

Reassemble:

Remember the following instructions when reassembling your drain trap:

Ensure that all washers are correctly seated and that twisting does not cause any issues.
Do not over-tighten the connections initially; keep the coupling nuts at a hand-tight level.
If a leak occurs, tighten the connections slowly and incrementally until the leak stops.
If the increased tightness does not solve the problem, your washers may be dirty, twisted, or defective.
Check them and try again.

If you run through all these steps and your plumbing fixtures remain clogged, call Herman’s Plumbing, and we’ll send our plumbers to help you out. We have all the skills and tools to handle any job and we’re always standing by to lend you a helping hand. Call us today.

Contact Herman's Plumbing & Drains or learn more about our services at the following locations:

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Josh Friede