It’s Thanksgiving—a day of food, family, and (hopefully) smooth-running sinks. But sometimes, all that turkey grease, potato peel, and gravy fat adds up to a kitchen disaster: a clogged sink right when you need it most. If you find yourself in this situation, take a deep breath before you reach for that bottle of chemical drain cleaner. There are safer, more effective ways to get your drain moving again. And if all else fails, your trusted plumber in Columbus, OH is just a call away to rescue your holiday dinner.
Step 1: Try a Sink Plunger
Before anything else, grab your trusty sink plunger. Not the toilet kind, but the flat-bottomed one designed for sinks. Fill the sink partially with warm water, then position the plunger directly over the drain to create a tight seal. Give it several firm, rapid pumps.
The pressure changes should help dislodge minor clogs caused by food scraps or grease buildup. If you have a double sink, make sure to plug the other drain with a wet rag to ensure maximum suction power. After a few attempts, remove the plunger and check if the water drains freely. If not, move on to step two.
Step 2: Use a Plastic Drain Snake
A simple plastic drain snake (sometimes called a hair clog remover or zip tool) can be surprisingly effective. Insert the snake gently into the drain, wiggling it around to catch and pull up food debris or congealed grease. These tools are inexpensive, disposable, and easy to use—perfect for small to moderate clogs.
Be careful not to force the snake too deep; you want to break up or retrieve the clog, not damage the pipe. Once you’ve removed the debris, flush the sink with hot water for a minute or two to clear away any remaining buildup.
Step 3: Try a Hand-Cranked Drain Auger
If plunging and snaking don’t do the trick, a hand-cranked drain auger (also known as a plumber’s snake) can reach deeper blockages. Feed the coiled metal cable into the drain and crank it slowly. When you feel resistance, you’ve likely reached the clog. Turn the handle to work the auger into the blockage, breaking it up or snagging it so you can pull it out. Once it feels clear, retract the cable carefully, wipe it clean, and flush the line with hot water.
Never Use Liquid Drain Cleaner
It might be tempting to take a shortcut with chemical drain cleaners, but don’t! These harsh products contain caustic ingredients that can burn your skin, irritate your lungs, and corrode your pipes—especially if your plumbing is older or made from metal. Over time, using these cleaners can lead to leaks, pipe damage, and costly repairs. They’re bad for your health, your home, and the environment.
When to Call the Pros
If you’ve tried all three safe methods and your sink is still clogged, it’s time to call in the experts. A professional plumber has the tools and expertise to clear even the toughest holiday blockages without damaging your plumbing. We can identify the cause—whether it’s grease, food waste, or a deeper pipe issue—and get your kitchen back in working order fast.
Don’t let a clogged sink spoil your Thanksgiving. Call us, and we’ll make sure your holiday cleanup goes smoothly!
Schedule your service today, and keep your family comfortable during the holidays. Contact us today for help from an expert plumber in Columbus, OH.
