If your sink drain is clogged, you may be able to clear the clog with few simple tools and about an hour of effort. If you still can’t clear the clog, no harm done other than spending about an hour of your time trying. Then you can call the plumber and relax while they handle the drain cleaning.
First, here are a couple of don’ts: Don’t try to clear the clog by pouring caustic chemicals down the drain. If you already have, stop now and call a plumber. You don’t want to try any of these clog clearing techniques on a sink full of hazardous chemicals. Also, don’t try to clear the clog using compressed air or a pressure washer. You will probably make a big mess and you can damage the pipes and end up needing a very expensive repair.
Now, to clear the clog start by removing the P trap under the sink. This is the P shaped pipe attached to the sink drain. Put a bucket under the trap and carefully remove the slip nuts with a pair of pliers. If the clog is in the trap, clean it out and put it back together. If not, you can either call it a day and let your plumber take care of it, or you can try using a plumber’s snake to clear the pipe. Plumber’s snakes for home use are available at your home improvement center.
Leave the P trap off and feed the plumber’s snake into the drain pipe. Continue feeding and cranking the snake until it stops. Then, tighten the set screw, apply some pressure and continue cranking until you feel the obstruction give way. Carefully remove the snake, cleaning it as you go.
Reassemble the P trap and run hot water through the drain to flush away loose debris.
