Six of the Most Common Kitchen Sink and Plumbing Issues
BY MET Plumbing LLC | May 21, 2018
Kitchen sink and plumbing problems can range from minor issues to more expensive repairs if you wait until they become major issues. Understanding some of the most common plumbing issues you can encounter in the kitchen and what to do can help prevent costly repairs.
1. Dripping Faucets
When the washers and other internal parts of a kitchen sink faucet become worn, the faucet begins to drip. Although the slow dripping may seem insignificant, it can lead to substantial water wastage, resulting in an unexpected increase in your water bill. If left unattended, the drip will eventually increase in frequency and volume, to the extent that water continues to flow even after turning off the faucet. There are two viable solutions to address this issue: either replace the worn-out internal hardware components of the faucet, or replace the entire faucet with a new one.
2. Slow-Draining and Clogged Kitchen Sinks
Slow drainage or a clogged kitchen sink can be caused by grease, food debris, soap scum, and other materials. As time goes by, a blockage can form, preventing water from flowing out of the sink.
Although it may seem convenient to solve the problem by pouring store-bought drain cleaners and clog removers down the sink, it is not recommended. These products often contain harsh chemicals that can harm the drainpipes.
The most effective solution is to use a traditional plunger. If that doesn’t work, the next step is to contact a plumber and schedule a drain cleaning service. The plumber will use specialized tools to clear the drain lines and eliminate the clog.
3. Dishwasher Leaks
Dishwasher leaks are a prevalent issue in kitchen plumbing that you may face. If water is leaking from underneath the dishwasher, it could indicate that the water intake or drain lines are not connected correctly.
On the other hand, if water is seeping out during wash cycles, it implies that the door seals need to be replaced. It is recommended to seek the assistance of a certified plumber for both types of repairs if you are unsure how to inspect the water and drain lines or replace the seals.
4. Garbage Disposal Leaks
If you observe water leaking from the garbage disposal under the sink, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid mold and mildew growth and damage to your cabinetry.
The problem may arise if the drain line is not appropriately connected or if the seal in the kitchen sink is worn out. Although you can inspect the drain lines yourself to determine the root cause, you may want to seek the assistance of a plumber for other types of garbage disposal leaks.
5. Garbage Disposal Motor Jams
Sometimes if you overfill the garbage disposal or attempt to put food waste in it that it is not designed to handle, like potato peelings, the motor can jam. Most models have a motor reset switch on the bottom of the unit. You may need a special “key” that came with your disposal to insert in a slot to reset it.
6. Leaky Drainpipes
If you notice water under your sink in the cabinet or water stains, it could indicate there are leaks in the drainpipes. Leaks can develop if the pipe connections come loose. Check to make sure the connections are tight. If not, tighten them but make sure not to overtighten. If leaks persist, there could be a crack in the drainpipe and the pipe will need to be replaced.
For help repairing and resolving kitchen sink and plumbing problems, please feel free to contact MET Plumbing & Air Conditioning at 281-603-9949 today! We also offer 24-hour emergency plumbing services when you need help immediately.