If you have noticed a slow-draining sink, before you reach for the drain cleaner or the plumber’s contact number, try to perform your own plumbing repair. After you’ve unclogged a slow-draining sink, you will have the confidence to do it again, and maybe, you will feel comfortable branching out into more complex plumbing issues, such as freezing pipe solutions.
What is a U-bend?
Meet the P-trap, often referred to as the U-bend. This is an important part of your sink’s drainage system. So if you take a look under the sink, you will see that instead of going down, the pipe will make a U-shaped bend before it goes off to your septic or sewer line. This is designed to stop backflow, and, to ensure no sewer gases do not come up out of the sink.
When your sink is clogged
The U-bend is the low point in your plumbing, and as its name implies, it will trap things. It helps to know how to take it apart just in case you accidentally drop something down it, but it is also useful to know how to do this just in case your sink begins to drain slowly. If you start to notice your sink is clogged, there is a good chance the problem is with the U-bend.
How to unclog the U-bend
Start by clearing out under your sink, as some spillage will occur, plus, you will need room to work. Get either a bucket or a large bowl and put it under the U-bend before you slowly unscrew the threaded caps on either end of the bend. These should come off easily unless the plumbing has not been serviced for a long time; if they stick, add some lubricant to help them along the way.
If you would like to make an appointment to discuss plumbing repair, please do not hesitate to contact JP & DC LLC at (240) 232-8308 now, if you live in the Silver Spring, MD region.