How to clear a blocked U-bend
How to clear a U-bend
The U-bend underneath your sinks and baths are traps that block any smell from the drainage system from flowing into a building.
Slow water drainage is usually caused by a build-up of soap, hair, and grease in the U-bend beneath the sink.
Below are three options for clearing a U-bend blockage.
Whichever of the three options you are using, the first step is to bail out any water that is backed up in the sink or bath.
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Clearing a blockage with homemade drain cleaner
A simple drain cleaner can be used when the pipe is not fully blocked.
Carefully mix together 4 litres of boiling water, 250ml of vinegar and 100g of bicarbonate of soda.
Gently pour into the sink with the blockage. This drain cleaner will help to disintegrate any grease, soap and hair build-up.
Clearing a blockage using a plunger
If the drain cleaner does not clear the blockage, you can try clearing it usinmg a plunger.
Put the plunger above the drain in the sink.If you have already baled out the sink fill with enough water to cover the top of the plunger cup.
Pump firmly for at least 1 minute or until the blockage clears.
Removing and cleaning the U-bend
If the drain cleaner or using a plunger does not clear the blockage, the U-bend assembly can be removed and cleaned quite easily.
Put a large bowl underneath the U-bend to catch the flow when the U-bend is removed.
On both corners of the U-bend, ensure to attach masking covering around the nuts. Try to use la pair of huge multigrips to loosen if the U-bend proves tough.
Pour extra water into a container after getting rid of the U-bend.
A coathanger can be used to get rid of the blockage. Once this achieved, you can go ahead to scrape gunk from your U-bend. Ensure to properly clean with a bottlebrush and detergent.
On the screw threads, smear petroleum jelly prior to replacing. It will help to facilitate removal next time.