How To Clear Your Sink Drain By Removing The Trap
If your kitchen sink is not draining, there is likely an obstruction caught in the trap. If you have already tried other drain cleaning methods, such as using a plunger or drain snake, it might be time to check the trap. Here are instructions for removing and clearing the trap of any obstructions.
Prepare for Removing the Trap
Before you start removing the trap, there are a few preparation steps you need to take. First of all, you need to have the right tools. Most traps are secured with nuts, so you will need to have a wrench for removing them. You may be able to remove them with your hands, but having this tool is always a good idea. A pair of large pliers might also be needed.
After you have gathered your tools, make sure you have a container that fits under the trap for waste removal, so you can catch water that comes out. You may have a good amount of water and other debris, depending on how bad the sink drain is clogged.
Remove the Trap
You are now ready to loosen and remove the trap. Find the nuts on the trap and first try twisting them to loosen them with your hands. They should be hand-tightened, but if they aren't, you need to grab your wrench to give it a try. If that is still not working or you don't have a wrench that is large enough to fit around the nuts, use large pliers instead.
Once the nuts are loose, you will be able to pull the tap down and remove it. As you pull it, make sure you go straight down so you don't bend it. The water and other contents of the drain will come out fast, so be sure your container is ready.
Clear the Drain
Once the water empties into the trap and you no longer see any more debris falling out on its own, you need to clear it yourself. There is probably an obstruction somewhere in the trap, so look through it to see if there is anything you need to remove. You can also try using another sink to rinse it and be sure the water runs straight through from one end to the other.
Once you are sure the trap is cleared, remove the trap arm. This is the piece located near where the trap was. Follow the same instructions of loosening the nuts and pull the arm straight out. Empty its contents in the same manner. You can now replace the traps, being sure they are secure but not too tight.