Summary

There are several methods to clear a blockage from a
sink waste pipe. Below are details of the most common
methods:

	1	To clear a slow draining sink
	2	Using a plunger
	3	Removing the waste trap
	4	Directly accessing the waste system

Tools
Plunger, drain auger, curtain wire	

Materials
Proprietary chemicals	

Step 1 - To clear a slow draining sink
An accumulation of grease can cause a sink to drain 
slowly. It is possible to buy some proprietary chemical 
cleaners or caustic soda which will dissolve this 
accumulation. Detailed instructions come with the 
cleaner. Note that many of these contain extremely 
hazardous strong chemicals - always follow explicitly 
the safety instructions on the package.	


Step 2 - Using a plunger
If the sink is completely blocked, you may need to use 
a plunger. Put the plunger directly over the plug and 
hold a cloth over the overflow to stop the air escaping. 
Pump the plunger for several minutes or until the 
blockage clears.


Step 3 - Removing the trap	
If the first two methods fail, you will have to remove 
the waste trap. Always wear rubber gloves and wash your 
hands and clothing after opening the waste trap because 
of the bacteria that thrives on the waste caught in 
traps. Place a bucket under the sink and open the 
waste trap itself.

Step 4 - Directly accessing the waste system	
Often the waste system has built in access points where 
the pipe is turned at right angles. These are called 
capped swept tee connectors. They look like normal T-shaped 
pipe connectors, but one end of the T is a removable cap. 
You can hire or buy a special flexible-rod tool to try and 
access parts of the waste system and dislodge the blockage.