How To Unclog A Kitchen Sink

Gillespie Plumbing • July 3, 2024

Whether you're washing dishes or preparing meals, a clogged sink can quickly disrupt your routine. Addressing it quickly is important to restore your kitchen's functionality and prevent potential plumbing damage. In this blog post, we'll explore how to unclog kitchen sinks effectively with the help of plumbers.

Assess Drainage Speed

First, it's important to determine the severity of the clog.

Signs of a Partial Blockage

  • Slow Draining Water: If water takes longer than usual, it indicates obstruction in the pipes. This could be due to accumulated grease, food particles or other debris.
  • Gurgling Noises: Strange noises from the drain suggest that air is trapped in the pipes due to a partial blockage. The gurgling sound occurs as air bubbles struggle to pass through the clog.
  • Foul Odours: Bad smells emanating from the drain are often caused by decomposing food particles or grease build-up within the pipes. These odours can be a clear sign of a developing clog that needs attention.

Signs Of A Complete Blockage

  • Standing Water in the Sink: If water is not draining at all and is simply pooling in the sink, this indicates a complete blockage. This situation requires immediate action to prevent further issues, such as overflows or leaks.
  • Inability to Use the Sink for Extended Periods: When a sink is completely blocked, it becomes unusable, disrupting your daily activities and causing significant inconvenience.
  • Persistent Unpleasant Smells: A complete blockage can trap waste and water in the pipes, leading to persistent and strong odours. These smells are often more intense than those associated with partial blockages and clearly indicate a severe problem.

Call A Reliable Plumber

If you suspect a blockage, contacting a reliable plumber should be your next step. Plumbers possess the necessary skills and adhere to industry standards. Detailed communication is key; accurately describe the symptoms of your plumbing issue when you call, allowing the plumber to better prepare with the right tools and replacement parts. This preparation can make the service visit more efficient and potentially reduce the time needed to solve the problem.


Plumbers can resolve your immediate concerns and protect your home from future plumbing emergencies. They can also assess the overall health of your plumbing, identifying any areas that may need attention before they develop into major problems, thus saving you from future hassles and unexpected expenses.

Utilising Advanced Equipment

Plumbers use advanced equipment to thoroughly inspect and resolve plumbing issues. One of the most effective tools is the CCTV drain camera. This sophisticated device allows plumbers to perform detailed inspections of your plumbing system. Key features of this technology include:


  • Multi-directional CCTV Camera: Allows for comprehensive inspection of plumbing systems.
  • Full-Colour Imaging: Provides clear, detailed visuals for precise diagnostics.
  • Branch Line Inspection: Ensures thorough examination by navigating and turning within branch lines.
  • Precision Diagnostics: Pinpoints the exact location of breaks, blockages and other issues.

Schedule Follow-up Maintenance

Once your kitchen sink is unclogged, it's crucial to maintain it to prevent future issues. Regular maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of recurring blockages and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. Plumbers can schedule routine inspections to check for potential problems. These check-ups can help catch issues early before they become major problems. Services like drain cleaning and pipe inspections can help you maintain the health of your plumbing system.


Preventative measures, such as using drain guards and avoiding disposing of grease and large food particles down the sink, can also help maintain clear pipes. Plumbers can provide personalised tips based on your usage patterns and the specific plumbing setup in your home.

Don't Let A Clogged Sink Slow You Down

At Gillespie Plumbing, our plumbers are equipped with state-of-the-art tools, including CCTV drain cameras, to identify and resolve hidden problems within your pipes. We offer precise diagnostics and efficient solutions, ensuring your sink operates smoothly. Get in touch with us today to book a service!

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