Tried unblocking sink but made it worse- time to call a plumber?

AFF8879

So once again the internet has lied terribly and made a bad situation worse.

I’ve had a slow running bathroom sink for a while now and decided today to attempt to fix it again. I have previously tried shop bought sink unblocker, boiling water, vinegar, washing up liquid and one of those extended wires with a brush head you can manoeuvre about. None have worked.

So today I read multiple articles that suggested a combination of salt, baking soda and boiling water. Having attempted this the sink is now totally blocked with sitting water. :mad:

Any ideas or should I resign myself to paying for a professional?

Robin9

Have you taken the u bend apart ?

Whitefiver

Hi,


Before you call anyone in, might just be worth trying a hot solution of Soda Crystals. Around £1 per Kg from e.g. Tesco, I believe.


Instructions are probably on the packet, but I use a couple of tablespoons of Soda in a pint of hot water (take care!), pour it down the plug hole, and leave for 10 minutes. Get as little as possible on any metalwork.


Follow up with a kettle of hot water.


One application usually works for my shower.


Hope that helps.

D_M_E

As Robin9 says, take the U-bend - could be a P-trap - off and clear that out then replace.

If it's gone so solid that you cannot clear it then buy another, they only cost a few quid from hardware shop or the likes of B&Q.

Remove any water from the sink first using a small cup or similar and put some towels or something underneath to catch what's left in the pipe when you remove the bend.

Grenage

As above, remove the u-bend. A couple of minutes with a bucket and you'll be done.

Browntoa

It can be the level pipe leading away from the u bend that's blocked , sometimes because of poor installation there's a slight drop in the level of the pipe towards the u bend and crap accumulation happens

Working_Mum

I had the same problem - i removed the U bend, cleaned it thoroughly (awful job) and replaced it - I have zero DIY plumbing skills so it's an easy job to do for a complete novice!!

Kept a cloth underneath the ubend for a few days as there was a slow drip but I just tightening it.

General_Applause

Use a plunger. Remember to block the overflow whilst plunging.

keith969

HG Duo drain unblocker. It's expensive, but cheaper than a plumber!

worried_jim

One shot- if you can get your hands on it now.

https://shop.wessexcleaning.com/the-cheeky-panda

paddy's_mum

If you do get a plumber in, make sure you warn him about the rake of toxic stuff that might still be lingering in the pipes.