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Quick answer
First, turn off the water supply under the sink. Check for visible leaks or clogs. For minor clogs, use a plunger or plumber's snake. For leaks, tighten connections or replace worn-out washers. If the issue persists, consult a professional.
Confirm the symptom
- Water drains slowly from the sink.
- Water leaks from under the sink.
- Gurgling sounds come from the drain.
- Foul odors emanate from the sink.
- Sink is not draining at all.
Tools and prep
- Plunger
- Plumber's snake
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Bucket and towels
- Flashlight
- Replacement washers or O-rings
- Turn off water supply under the sink
- Clear the area under the sink for easy access
Step-by-step troubleshooting
- Check for Obvious ClogsDo: Remove the drain cover and use a flashlight to look for visible clogs.Observe: Look for hair, food particles, or other debris.Means: If you see a clog, try to remove it with your fingers or tweezers.Next: If the clog is not visible, proceed to the next step.
- Use a PlungerDo: Fill the sink with about 2 inches of water and place the plunger over the drain.Observe: Ensure a tight seal around the plunger.Means: Plunge vigorously up and down for about 15 seconds.Next: If the water drains, repeat until the sink is clear. If not, try the next step.
- Use a Plumber's SnakeDo: Insert the snake into the drain and twist it to break up or retrieve the clog.Observe: Be gentle to avoid damaging the pipes.Means: Pull out the snake and discard any debris.Next: If the sink is still not draining, check for leaks.
- Inspect for LeaksDo: Look under the sink for any visible water leaks.Observe: Check the water supply lines and drain pipes.Means: Tighten any loose connections with an adjustable wrench.Next: If leaks persist, replace worn-out washers or O-rings.
- Replace Washers or O-ringsDo: Turn off the water supply and place a bucket under the pipes.Observe: Use a screwdriver to remove the old washers or O-rings.Means: Install new washers or O-rings and reassemble the pipes.Next: Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.
- Check the P-TrapDo: Place a bucket under the P-trap and loosen the slip nuts.Observe: Remove the P-trap and check for clogs or damage.Means: Clean the P-trap and reassemble it.Next: If the sink is still not functioning properly, consider calling a professional.
Common causes
| Cause | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair or Debris Clog Hair, food particles, or other debris can accumulate in the drain. | Common | Easy | Plunger, Plumber's snake |
| Loose Connections Water supply lines or drain pipes may become loose over time. | Sometimes | Easy | Adjustable wrench |
| Worn-Out Washers or O-rings These parts can deteriorate over time, causing leaks. | Sometimes | Easy–Medium | Replacement washers or O-rings |
| Clogged P-Trap The P-trap can accumulate debris and become clogged. | Sometimes | Medium | Bucket, Screwdriver |
| Corroded Pipes Older pipes can corrode and develop leaks. | Rare | Hard | Pipe replacement parts |
| Improper Installation If the sink was not installed correctly, it can cause drainage issues. | Rare | Hard | Professional inspection |
Parts matching
Ensure you have the right parts before starting the repair. Common parts needed for fixing a sink kecil include:
- Plunger
- Plumber's snake
- Adjustable wrench
- Replacement washers or O-rings
- Bucket and towels
- Flashlight
Always turn off the water supply before starting any repair work to prevent flooding.
When to call a professional
- If the sink is severely damaged or corroded.
- If you cannot locate the source of the leak.
- If the sink continues to leak after replacing washers or O-rings.
- If you are not comfortable performing the repair yourself.
- If the sink is not draining after trying all troubleshooting steps.
FAQ
How do I prevent future clogs in my sink?
Use a drain strainer to catch debris and avoid pouring grease or large food particles down the drain.
What should I do if my sink is overflowing?
Turn off the water supply immediately and use a plunger or plumber's snake to clear the clog.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners?
Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage pipes. Stick to mechanical methods like plunging or snaking.