How much will a plumber charge to unblock a sink?
It is never fun to discover that you've got a blocked sink, especially when you've tried to unclog it yourself using a plunger or chemicals and it's not worked. Sometimes this can mean that you have got a bigger problem, like a drain blockage, but other times you might just need a plumber to help. But how much will it cost?
How much does it cost to unblock a sink?
HaMuch has a large database of hourly and daily rates for plumbers based on your location, but the average cost to unblock a kitchen sink is £60. For most plumbers, this will be a quick job that they can help you out with in between other work, so they won’t charge you a call out charge. However, if it turns out to be a larger blockage that needs rodding, it could set you back an average of £280.
How long does it take for a plumber to unclog a sink?
How long it takes for a plumber to unclog a sink will depend on how bad the blockage is. If it's a simple one, they could use a plunger or snake the drain and they could unblock it within minutes. However, if the plumber tries to unblock the sink and realises that there is a bigger problem within the drain, they may have to jet or rod your drains. This could take an hour or more.
Will a clogged sink eventually drain?
Whether a clogged sink will eventually drain depends on the type of blockage and what you're doing to unblock it. Of course, if you just leave the blockage, it won't drain! But if your clogged sink is due to a buildup of food waste, hair or cleaning products, you could try to unblock it using white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.
- Start by pouring a kettle of boiling water down the sink.
- Next, pour equal parts of bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar down the sink - a cup of each should be enough.
- Cover with the plug and wait 5 to 10 minutes.
- Pour boiling water down the drain again.
If the blockage is minor, you may find that your sink will eventually drain. However, if the blockage is caused by a foreign object or a large build up of grease, oil and food, it’s unlikely to solve the problem. If you’ve tried snaking it yourself or using a plunger, (or even some of these useful ways to unblock a sink without a plunger) it’s time to call in a plumber.
What are the most common causes of sink blockages?
There are a few common causes of sink blockages - and you can prevent them by disposing of these things in the bin or compost!
- Fat, oil or grease - they will solidify in the pipes and eventually cause blockages
- Pasta and coffee grounds - these foods will swell and could clog your sink
- Food scraps - any food can end up stuck in the trap
- Soap scum - lots of washing up liquids and shower gels are made with fats which can clog your sink over time
- Toys and other small objects - accidents happen, but try to keep anything that’s small enough to fall down the plughole away from it!
All in all, unblocking a clogged sink shouldn't take a plumber very long and it should set you back less than £100. Make sure you take a look at HaMuch's average local costs, and make an inquiry to get quotes from trusted plumbers in your area.