Slow draining / clogged sink (pictures included)


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Old 05-09-18, 05:36 PM
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Slow draining / clogged kitchen sink. Trying to detach P Trap

Hello all. I've tried fixing my clogged kitchen sink via simple methods found via Google & YouTube, such as salt, baking soda, vinegar, boiling water, and using a plunger. It seems like I was able to plunge it successfully at one point as it drained well right after, but then I thought it would be a good idea to plunge it some more, and subsequently of course the sink clogged to the point it wouldn't drain at all (DOH).



I've tried removing the "P Trap" below the sink, but was unsuccessful. I was able to loosen the inlet on the left side with a wrench. I turned it fully to the left, but was still unable to disconnect the trap. I used a little force to try and pull it off, but was unsuccessful. I feel that I can use some more and remove it, but of course worry about the risk of breaking it.

The right side of the trap has no inlet to unscrew / loosen, which makes me question how it's supposed to come off.

I feel like getting this P trap off and cleaning it is the solution to my problem, or can at least get me to the point where the sink is at least functional again. Does anybody have any tips on getting this off? What type of trap this is? What tools I need? Any other tips?

This looked so much easier on YouTube. Clearly I am definitely far from a handy man.

Please help! Thanks in advance.
 
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Last edited by rain183xx; 05-09-18 at 05:57 PM.
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Old 05-09-18, 07:06 PM
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The connection on the left appears to be a compression fitting but on the back side it looks solid, at least from what is shown.

Is there a similar connection?

It may just need to be cut out are re fitted with a new p-trap.
 
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Old 05-09-18, 07:11 PM
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If the other end of the trap is glued then you remove it by cutting it off. What size is the pipe coming out of the wall? From your photo the trap appears over sized.
 
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Old 05-09-18, 08:09 PM
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It seems like there is no screwable inlet on the back side, it appears that it fits flush. Maybe it's glued on?

Is cutting it out and refitting it my best bet?

Would draino be effective in fixing this issue?

I'm really trying to avoid hiring a plumber for this job.

Thanks in advance
 
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Old 05-10-18, 03:52 AM
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Skip all the chemical crap. Do what PD and Marq said. You need to cut the pipe and replace with standard slip nut type traps. When your traps are off then a snake into the cut pipe will most likely clear the clog.

Are any other sinks or toilets running slow? If so then the clog is much further down the line and you may need to open a clean out and snake from there.
 
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Old 05-10-18, 03:55 AM
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Would draino be effective in fixing this issue?

I've never used and simply rely on cleaning out the traps if needed sooo might work, but if anything ever got dropped down, then you need the ability to access. Trust me it does happen!

Cant tell what is the situation above the "U" on the back, if there is straight section then cutting out and replacing would be much easier.

I'd pick up several drain pieces and visually see what works but having a compression on both sides will allow for easy removal.

Another thing I noticed, is that a clean out drain at the bottom of the "U" or something in the background?
 
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Old 05-10-18, 05:08 AM
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Again... What size is the pipe coming out of the wall?

From your photo the trap appears over sized. Most kitchen sink drains and traps are 1 1/2" but your trap appears larger and has a reduction bushing so I'm guessing it's 2"

If you can cut off the existing and leave at lease a inch or two of pipe protruding from the wall you can glue on a 2" to 1 1/2" DWV trap adapter. This will allow you to use slip couplings and trap which will make assembling everything very easy and allow you to easily remove the trap in the future.

 
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Old 05-10-18, 08:28 AM
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Thankfully as of now all of the other toilets and sinks in the house are functioning normally.

It appears that it is indeed a size 2. I've added more pictures for reference. Hopefully they're useful.

There is a bottom piece, which doesn't seem to be accessible. I've tried pulling at it, unscrewing it, but it's stuck in pretty tight.

Realistically is this a project that I can complete on my own? I'm worried about making a huge mess and potentially making things worse. I'm a complete newbie when it comes to this stuff so I'm a bit apprehensive.

How much time am I looking to invest into this project if I completed it on my own? How much money? Is it doable for a complete beginner? What tools do I need? I'm most worried about cutting the back of the U piece off. Is there a guide anywhere that I can refer to? I am willing to put in the time & effort if this is a doable project.

Thank you all so much for your time and input thus far.
 
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