Keep grease out of the sink
Cooking oil and grease may enter as liquid but cool and cling to piping. Collect them in a suitable container, wipe oily cookware before washing, and place the cooled waste in the trash according to local rules.
Use a drain strainer
A simple basket catches food scraps before they enter the trap and piping. Empty it frequently and wash it with normal dish soap and hot tap water.
Run enough water with a disposal
If the sink has a garbage disposal, use cold water while it operates and continue briefly after the food has cleared. Feed small amounts and keep fibrous waste, bones, grease, and non-food items out.
Never place a hand into a disposal. Disconnect power before any inspection allowed by the manufacturer.
Address odors gently
Clean the removable strainer and accessible sink surfaces first. A small amount of baking soda followed by warm water may help with ordinary odors, but it will not remove a solid obstruction or repair a venting problem.
Avoid common drain-cleaning mistakes
- Do not mix cleaning chemicals.
- Do not repeatedly use corrosive drain opener.
- Do not pour boiling water into piping unless the fixture and pipe manufacturer allow it.
- Do not force a cable through a disposal or unfamiliar piping.
Know when the problem is deeper
Recurring clogs, gurgling, backup into another fixture, persistent odor, or several slow drains can indicate a branch-line, vent, or main-drain issue. Russell Services can help identify the location and recommend the appropriate clearing or repair.
LOCAL HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT
Not sure what your home is telling you?
Describe the issue and Russell Services will help you determine the right next step. For active leaks, no heat, or a problem getting worse quickly, call directly.
