How to Fix an Airlock in a Kitchen Sink Drain: Expert Tips in 2023

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What could be more annoying than a sink that refuses to drain? Even the calmest cook can be thrown into chaos by this dilemma. We’ve got your back! The guide below will help you solve a standard kitchen sink problem: airlocks. This guide will keep it simple and humorous while providing all the necessary information to free up your kitchen sink.

What is the Airlock on a Drainage System

Let’s first understand the problem. It’s like an airlock blocking the flow of Water in a city. An airlock can be created when air is trapped in the pipes of your sink. The trapped air prevents the Water from draining correctly, leaving you with dirty dishes and increasing frustration.

How to fix an airlock in a sink drain

The best kitchen sink is the unsung star of culinary arts. You can create culinary masterpieces there, wash the dishes, and even clean your pets. What happens when your sink stops draining correctly and starts to act up? You may have an airlock. We’re here for you to explain what an airlock is and show you how to free it so that your kitchen becomes the buzzing center of culinary delights it should be.

What you need:

Let’s first assemble the toolkit. What you will need is:

• The Plunger is the unsung hero in many sink-clog situations.
• Buckets: If you don’t like dirty Water splashing around, use a bucket.
• Towels: They are used to keep the place clean.
• Heat Water: the secret weapon to combat airlocks
• The Drain Snake is for more challenging situations.

Look for local blockages:

Inspect the sink to see if there are any blockages. Use a flashlight and remove the drain cover to look into your sink. It’s possible to find that stray potato peel or the missing spoon.

Find Your AAV:

You ask, “What is an AAV?” A small air admittance valve (AAV) is an important device, usually found under the sink. The valve allows air to enter the plumbing system to avoid airlocks. You’re one step closer to victory if you find it.

Check the AAV:

Your AAV can cause an airlock if it is malfunctioning or clogged. It’s essential to clean and maintain it. When you most need your AAV, it should not be MIA.

Tests:

Now comes the exciting part! Watch the Water draining from your sink. Congratulations, you have just fixed the problem. If you still have a persistent airlock, then it is time to get the heavy-duty equipment.

What To Do If This Doesn’t Work?

Sometimes, even with your best attempts, an airlock will not move. When this happens, it is time to look at more sophisticated solutions. We still need to finish.

The Tools Required for Repair

You may need the following:

• Gloves are a great way to protect your hands.
• Safety glasses: safety first.
• If you haven’t seen it before, here is a drain snake.
• Plumber’s Auger – For severe blockages.
• The wrench is used to disassemble pipes and check them.
• After sealing connections, use pipe sealant.

Airlocks in Drains: How to Detect Them

It’s essential to know the subtle signs. You may notice bubbles when running the faucet, a gurgling or slow drain, or an unpleasantly mildew-smelling sink.

The plunger method for clearing the airlock

Are you ready to unleash the full power of your Plunger? How to use the Plunger

• Make sure the overflow hole is plugged.
• Place the Plunger on the drain to create a seal.
• Take a Plunge Make a series of vigorous dives while keeping the seal intact.
• Test Drainage Remove the Plunger, then run water through the drain to see if the airlocks are gone.

Voila! The airlock should be cleared with the Plunger.

Release the Airlock with Hot Water

Try the hot water method if the Plunger does not work.

• Boiling Water: Bring a pan to almost boiling point.
• Pour it in: Carefully pour hot Water down the drain.
• Running the Tap: Open the faucet and allow hot water to flow for one minute.
• You can test the drain by letting it run smoothly. If the Water flows freely, you have beaten an airlock using hot Water’s magic.

How to remove the airlock using a drain snake

Bring the drain snake in for the most challenging cases:

• First, safety! Wear gloves and safety glasses.
• Insert the drain serpent gently into the drain.
• To navigate, turn the handle.
• You can feel the Resistance: If you find an airlock, it’s probably where you are hitting Resistance.
• Continue to turn and push until the snake is free.
• Run Water to check the drain.

The conclusion of the article is:

It’s like learning a brand-new recipe. You may find it difficult at first, but with humor and the correct ingredients, you will be successful in no time. Start simple, and then increase your effort as necessary. You’ll be able to return with a smile and a happy kitchen sink.

Frequently Asked Question

You now have the knowledge and tools to clear that blockage in your sink. Go ahead and conquer the airlock in your kitchen sink drain.