“Oil and fats are the main cause of blocked drains within a kitchen,” said Peter Clayton, based at Trade Plumbing.
Pouring hot cooking fats down the drain may seem no big deal when, in reality, when it comes into contact with cold pipes, it will instantly solidify on the surface.
Clayton explained: “When fat enters drains, it solidifies and becomes stuck to the inside of pipes.
“Food debris then clings onto this collected fat creating a blockage in the drain.”
“It is important to never dispose of fats and oils down your kitchen sink,” stressed Clayton.
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“Instead, ensure they are placed in a sealed container, or bag, and discarded in general waste.”
However, if it’s too late, and you have already partially blocked the drain, you may not need to call a plumber out.
“Pouring a mixture of boiling water and washing up liquid down your drain is an easy and effective solution for blocked pipes,” advised Clayton.
“The boiling water helps to clear food debris from your pipes while the washing up liquid breaks down any grease.”
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Clayton instructed: “Repeat this step two or three times for the best results.”
He advised against using baking soda though, as it could damage the plumbing system, even if it seems like it works to unclog the pipes.
Another option is to use a plunger, which may be an old-fashioned method, but it still works.
Clayton recommended simply filling the sink with water and then placing the plunger over the opening of the drain.
“Push up and down on the plunger for 30 seconds and release,” Clayton instructed.
“This should suction the debris out from the drain, it may take a few plunges so be patient with this method.”
Preventing future pipe blockages
Clayton strongly suggested using a food catcher in the kitchen sink, so that food debris doesn’t go down the pipes.
“Make sure to empty the strainer regularly, if not food particles can become worn down and slide through the small gaps in the strainer,” added Clayton.
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