How to Open a Closed Laundry Sink Drain
In most homes, the water from the washing machine flows directly down into laundry sink. This method does make installing your washing machine much easier, but not with its own set of drawbacks. The water from the washing machine contains dirt, hair and other debris that eventually clog the drain. The drain needs to be unclogged to work properly.
What You'll Need:
- Plunger
- Plumbing snake
- Liquid drain opener
- Pipe wrench
- Bucket
- Towels
- Clear out any visible hair, lint or other debris from the top of the drain. If there is any standing water present in the sink, you'll need to use a plunger to clear any clogs from the inside of the drain. After you've plunged the drain, pour the liquid drain opener directly into the drain. Follow the instructions as listed on the bottle for the suggested wait time.
- Use a plumbing snake to open the drains for those more stubborn clogs. Position several old towels underneath the sink. Place a bucket on top of the towels but ensure that they are placed directly under the pipes of the sink.
- Use a pipe wrench to remove the pipe from directly underneath the drain. Loosen the nuts that hold the "U" shaped pipe and remove it.
- Inspect both of the pipes for any clogs. Insert the end of the snake into the pipe that is connected to the wall. Begin slowly feeding the snake into the pipe until you begin to feel some resistance. Pull out about 1/2 inch cable and tighten the locking screw. Continue pushing the cable into the drain while turning the hand crank of the snake in a clockwise direction. If done correctly, the clog should begin to loosen. If it does not do it initially, continue doing so until the clog begins to break.
- Begin reinstalling all the pipes and wipe away all of the water. Allow hot water to run down the drain to flush out any of the remaining debris from the pipes. To avoid clogs from reoccurring, keep the drain free and clear of any lint and other debris and use liquid drain opener periodically.