sink frozen

Plumbing

The answer to 'sink frozen' is that a frozen sink drain is a common plumbing issue caused by cold temperatures or a blockage. Symptoms include slow or no water drainage, ice buildup around the drain, and potentially a frozen pipe. Solutions can range from DIY methods like pouring hot water down the drain or using a drain snake, to calling a professional plumber if the issue persists or the pipe is completely frozen.

Frozen sinks are typically caused by cold air exposure, such as from a window or open cabinet, or a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. If the issue is caught early, DIY fixes may work, but if the pipe is fully frozen, it's best to call a plumber to safely thaw the line and address the root cause.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Pour Hot Water Down the Drain

    Carefully pour a kettle of boiling water down the sink drain to help melt the ice.

  2. 2

    Use a Drain Snake

    Insert a drain snake or plumber's snake into the drain to break up the ice blockage.

  3. 3

    Apply Heat Directly

    Wrap the frozen area with a heating pad or apply a heat lamp to thaw the ice from the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent my sink from freezing?

To prevent a sink from freezing, insulate exposed pipes, keep the cabinet doors open to allow warm air circulation, and address any existing drain blockages.

What should I do if my sink is frozen?

If your sink is frozen, first try pouring hot water down the drain to thaw the ice. If that doesn't work, use a drain snake or plunger to break up the blockage. If the pipe is completely frozen, call a professional plumber.

How long does it take for a sink to unfreeze?

The time it takes for a frozen sink to unfreeze can vary depending on the severity of the freeze, but it typically ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours using DIY methods. For a fully frozen pipe, it may take a plumber several hours to safely thaw and address the issue.

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