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Author:
QR (VA)
Hi Folks,
After reading this page, I'm sufficiently relieved of my ignorance to know how dumb it was to get into this mess. I need some advice on clearing my apartment's clogged kitchen sink of some garbage disposed coffee grounds. The unit consists of:
- 2 sinks
- Garbage disposal in left sink
- Dishwasher connected to disposal
I've tried plunging, but couldn't get a good seal.
I've tried Drano (I'm sorry).
The water did drain overnight, but the pipes still aren't running clear.
Running the disposal now pushes the small amount of remaining water up into the right sink. Does this suggest that the clog is near the Y-connector for the two sinks?
Any advice or perspective much appreciated, especially on (1) how to effectively retry plunging, (2) any tools needed to remove/reattach traps for cleaning, and (3) other options before calling a pro.
Photos of unit:
A- Below Left sink. Disposal, pipe to outside unit, pipe over to Right sink, and white ribbed tube from dishwasher to disposal just barely visible top left above copper water pipes.
[tinypic.com]
B- Below Right sink.
[tinypic.com]
Thank you very much
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Author:
cvcman
did you pull the traps off to see if they are plugged ?? Are all the other fixtures draining ok in the house ??
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Author:
QR (VA)
Thanks so much for your reply
I have not yet removed the traps.That's probably in order if plunging fails again, huh? But doesn't the water flowing between sinks suggest that the traps aren't clogged?
All other sinks etc. in the apartment are working fine. I have not run the connected dishwasher.
Edited 1 times.
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Author:
Wheelchair
I'm not one to suggest a product I have no knowledge with, but I will make an exception and hope it works for you. Some of the big box stores have a compound/chrystals in a pouch you can purchase to put into the garbage disposal to improve its operation and make it smell nice. I don't know if it is enzyeme based or what. I just know I've seen it. If you get it and try it.... let us all know.
But I'd clean the traps 1st as suggested, 1st.
Best Wishes
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Author:
QR (VA)
Thanks Wheelchair.
I didn't go with the chrystals. The problem does go beyond the disposal. Both traps and both lines to the single pipe leading out of the cupboard are clear.
I picked up a Rigid Kwik-spin manual snake, but can't get past some curve or lip about 6' in. I've been wiggling and jimmying that thing for an hour with no progress.
Any tips on using this snake more effectively?
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Author:
hj
quote; Any tips on using this snake more effectively?
How can you make a "toy" work more effectively?
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Author:
Wheelchair
The Ridgid Kwik-Spin, MANUAL Unit is a nice piece of equipment for blockages with 20 inches of its handle on a straight run. Beyond 20 inches, bends and drops the unit is NOT effective. As suggested, the unit is nothing more then a pacifier, and then a true Kollman professional series drain cleaner is needed.
As suggested, you have done your best without the results you seeked. Now it time for a licensed plumber to resolve those issues. Watch what they do and ask questions. In the end you will have piece of mind and a clean drain.
Best Wishes
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Author:
hj
I used one of those SIXTY years ago, but quickly moved up in technology.
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Author:
The Unclogger (NY)
I agree you need a longer snake, and it needs to be electronic. if you dont want to spend a few hundred bucks on a pro style electric snake i suggest going over to home depot or lowes and renting one of the ones they have. It will make the job much easier. when you do get the snake remove the trap again and snake directly into the pipe that goes into the wall. Hope this helps.
The Unclogger
[www.howtounclogasinkhq.com]
Edited 1 times.
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