How to Unclog a Drain in the Kitchen

Clogged drains in a commercial kitchen can be such a pain. That is why it is important for a steward to learn how to unclog a drain. In truth, you do not need expensive chemicals to unclog the drain. You can always use a simple plunger and basic vinegar or vinegar mixed with baking soda. Here is a step-to-step guide on unclogging the drain:

1. Pour ¼ cup of vinegar concentrate or a cup of baking soda mixed with ¼ cup of vinegar down the clogged rain. A mixture of baking soda and vinegar will create foaming which will help clear the clog. Leave it for 25 minutes.
2. Pour freshly boiled hot water into the drain.
3. Pump or suction the drain with the plunger in order to get the clogged materials to move.
4. Pour hot water into the drain once again.
5. Repeat this process until the drain is clear.

Make sure that you seal off openings in order to allow suction. You need to seal secondary openings so that you will not lose pressure from your plunger. This should work but if it doesn’t, then the clog may well be going up the sewer air vent. Also, the problem may be really further down the drain. This is often the case in double sinks that are both clogged. You may have to resort to using a drain cleaning auger. You also need to learn how to use a snake when trying to learn how to unclog a drain. Drain cleaning augers or snakes vary in kinds. There are manual, electric, hybrid and automatic snakes. Usually, hybrids are attached to electric hand drills. Since you will be most likely draining clogged pipes every now and then, you probably should avoid manual snakes. These things are ideal for home use. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to unclog a drain using a snake.

1. Insert the drain cleaning auger into the drain pipe until you meet resistance.
2. Once you do, rotate it carefully clockwise until it moves forward again.
3. Continue to turn and push the snake forward until you cut through the pipe and unclogged it.

It is important that you use this tool carefully and surely. Do not jam or push it hard because this could damage the snake. Usually, the snake will be filthy once you pull it out of the pipe. Sometimes, the problem may not be fixed by a plunger or a snake. It is great to learn how to unclog a drain, but sometimes, you may have to resort to professional help if these simple solutions do not solve the problem.