Are you experiencing sink drainage issues? If your sink only drains when the garbage disposal is on, then something may be wrong with your plumbing system.
In this article, we’ll discuss what could be causing this problem and how to fix it. We’ll also give some tips on how to prevent sink drainage problems from happening in the future.
So if you’re having trouble with sink drainage, keep reading for helpful advice!
The Most Likely Cause: Clog
When sink drainage is only successful when the garbage disposal is running, it’s likely due to a clog in the sink drain. This can be caused by a build-up of grease, oil, food scraps and other debris.
In some cases, the sink may not completely empty even with the garbage disposal running. This indicates a more severe blockage in the sink drain.
Identifying the Source of the Blockage
In order to identify and repair the sink drainage problem, you’ll need to locate the source of the blockage. This might require an inspection of your sink drainpipes or the replacement of a sink stopper.
Fixing the Problem
As for the buildup of grease and oil, to break down the blockage, you can use a sink cleaning solution or 1/3 cup of baking soda and 1/3 cup of vinegar to dissolve it. Pour the solution down the sink drain and let it sit for an hour or so, then flush with cold water. (This method is suitable for solving most occasions.)
To clear a sink stopper-related blockage, you’ll need to remove and clean the sink stopper. If it’s rusted or worn out, you may need to replace it. To do this, turn off the sink faucet, unscrew the sink stopper, and clean or replace it as needed.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you’re having sink drainage problems and can’t seem to find the source of the blockage, here are some tips for troubleshooting:
1. Check the sink strainer and garbage disposal guard for any debris that may be preventing sink drainage.
2. Disconnect the sink trap and inspect it for any clogs or backups.
3. Inspect the sink drainpipe for any cracks, leaks or blockages.
4. Check the sink vent pipe and make sure it is not blocked.
Preventing Future Blockages
In order to avoid sink drainage problems in the future, make sure to always use a sink strainer or garbage disposal guard when washing dishes. This can help keep food scraps and other debris from entering the sink drain and causing a blockage.
Additionally, it’s important to regularly clean your sink drains with cold water and a sink cleaner solution to prevent grease buildup.
Cause 2: Leaky Pipes, Air Lock
In some cases, sink drainage issues may not be caused by a clog. If your sink is draining slowly or gurgling when the disposal is running, then it could be due to an air lock in the pipes or a leaky sink pipe.
Fixing the Leaky Pies or Air Lock
When troubleshooting sink drainage issues, it is important to check for any cracks and leaks in the sink pipe. This includes looking for any signs of water leakage, cracks in the sink pipes, or an air lock.
To check for these issues, you can use a flashlight to inspect the sink pipes for any damage. If you find a crack or leak, then you will need to repair the sink pipe with a pipe repair kit.
To fix an air lock in the sink pipes, you can try running cold water through the sink drain to clear it out.
Preventing Future Leaky Pipes or Air Lock Issues
To prevent sink drainage problems related to leaky pipes or air locks, make sure your sink pipes are properly installed and in good condition. Use high-grade pipe materials like polypropylene and high-grade connections like copper and brass to ensure a longer life span. Most importantly, don’t forget to install seal rings.
Additionally, you should also check the sink pipe connections for any signs of corrosion or wear and tear.
Regularly cleaning sink pipes with sink cleaners can also help prevent sink drainage issues caused by air locks or leaky sink pipes.
Cause 3: Improperly Installed Sink Drain
If sink drainage problems are due to an improperly installed sink drain, then you may need to replace the sink drain and sink drain components. To do this properly, you should hire a professional plumber to assess the sink installation and make any necessary repairs. Or, if your garbage disposal is still under warranty, contact the seller.
Fix the Problem
A sink drain installation should include a sink trap, sink vent pipe, sink drainpipe and sink strainer. If any of these components are missing, then the sink drain may not be working properly.
To fix a sink drainage issue due to an improperly installed sink drain, you’ll need to remove the sink drain components. Then, make sure the sink drain components are properly connected and sealed. Replace the faulty part if necessary.
Preventing Future Problems
To avoid sink drainage issues in the future, make sure to inspect sink drain components regularly and replace any damaged or worn parts.
Additionally, if you’re installing a sink drain yourself, follow the instructions carefully to ensure that it’s installed correctly. This will help avoid sink drainage problems caused by an improperly installed sink drain.
Finally, if you have a garbage disposal installed under your sink, make sure to use it according to the instructions in order to avoid sink only draining when the garbage disposal is on.
Cause 4: Poor Plumbing System
A sink drainage issue caused by a poor plumbing system can be difficult to diagnose and repair. If you suspect that there is a problem with the plumbing system, contact a professional plumber to inspect the sink and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Preventing Future Problems
To prevent sink drainage issues caused by a poor plumbing system, you should consider originally when arrange drainage and garbage disposal system. Make sure the sink is connected to the proper pipes and outlets, and that there are no leaks or blockages in the plumbing system.
Additionally, avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage sink pipes and reduce their lifespan.
Cause 5: Flywheel of Your Disposal Gets Stuck
If the sink only drains when your garbage disposal is on, and the sink does not drain at all when it’s off, this could be due to a flywheel in your disposal getting stuck. To repair this problem, you’ll need to unstick the flywheel.
Unstick the Flywheel
To do this, unplug the sink disposal and remove the sink drain cover. Then, find the flywheel in the sink and check for any debris or objects that might be stuck in it. If you find any debris, use a wire brush or pliers to remove it.
Once the flywheel is clear of debris, try turning it by hand to see if the flywheel can move freely. If it moves freely, plug the sink disposal back in and try turning it on.
Preventing Future Problems
In order to prevent sink drainage problems caused by a stuck flywheel, you should always make sure your sink disposal is clean and free of debris. Additionally, you should never put large objects down your sink drain as they can get stuck in the sink disposal’s flywheel.
Cause 6: Your Garbage Disposal Is Overload
If sink drainage problems are due to an overloaded sink disposal, the sink drain may not be able to handle the amount of water being forced through it.
Fixing Overload Garbage Disposal
To fix this issue, reduce the amount of water going through the sink drain and make sure to dispose of food waste properly.
Additionally, you may want to consider replacing your sink disposal with a more powerful one.
Preventing Future Problems
To avoid sink drainage problems caused by an overloaded sink disposal, you should make sure to dispose of food waste properly and in small amounts. You should also consider using a sink filter to catch any food particles before they enter the sink disposal. Additionally, make sure to inspect sink drains regularly for clogs or debris that could cause sink drainage issues.
