We’ve all been there. One moment, we’re just washing an item in the sink. Before we know it, the object has fallen down the drain. We need to be extra careful when handling small and slim items since these can fit inside the hole. If it’s valuable like a wedding ring, then you are probably eager to get it back. Even if the fallen item isn’t that important, you should try to retrieve it anyway. Any solid object inside the drain can eventually clog the sink drain, causing a slew of plumbing problems. Here’s what to do when you dropped something down sink drain.
What To Do When You Drop Something Down The Drain
Contents
Below, we discuss some of the steps you should take in the event that you drop an object down the drain.
Turn the Water Off
Your immediate goal is to prevent the item from moving further down the drain. That would make it harder to reach. Turn the water off as soon as possible, so there won’t be any current washing it away. Every second counts in this situation. Do it before you start to panic. Do it before you plan how to perform the retrieval. If you can’t turn off the faucet above the sink for any reason, then use the shut-off valve under the sink. Your last option would be to close the home’s main shut-off valve. This will prevent any water from going into the plumbing system.
Unplug the Garbage Disposal
Kitchen sinks can be found under various conditions and arrangements. Some are plain while others are equipped with extra features. If you have a garbage disposal unit in your sink, then it is dangerous to reach down the drain for retrieval. It could move without warning and cause injuries. Be sure to unplug it to prevent any surge of power into the machine. This will also protect the disposal unit from damage in case the object is hard like strips of metal. You need to remove this before grinding anything else. If you are not sure how to proceed, then call a plumber for assistance.
Check for Visibility
It is never advisable to put other items down the drain during the rescue attempt. It is particularly dangerous to place your bare hand inside. Likewise, you should not use chemical drain cleaners which may end up harming the plumbing system. While it may be tempting to use a bent coat hanger or other paraphernalia to poke and pull the item, you need to be careful with this strategy. You might end up pushing it further down by accident. However, if part of the object is clearly visible and easily within reach from the surface, then you may grab it and pull it out.
Use a Magnet
Check whether the dropped item is magnetic or not. Not all metals are magnetic. For example, aluminum, brass, lead, tin, zinc, and copper are non-ferrous. Anything made from these is not going to stick to a magnet. However, ferrous metals with significant iron content will respond to its presence. You might want to take advantage of this property. Tie a small magnet with a piece of string and lower this down carefully until you feel the item engage. Pull it slowly back up. Note that this only works if the object is small and light.
Open the Trap
If you look under the sink, then you will notice that there is a piece of pipe with an odd curve, also called a p-trap. This is designed to trap water and prevent the smell of the sewer from moving up to the house. The trap also holds items that fall down the drain. If you move quickly to stop the flow of water, then you might find the item here. However, access will only be possible by removing the trap with tools. Those who are comfortable fixing things around the house may try it. Others might want to let the professionals handle the matter.
Call a Plumber
Not everyone has experience with plumbing. Most people have never taken their pipes apart. After all, it can be a messy affair and a lot can go wrong if you are inexperienced. Fortunately, plumbers are just one call away. You can call for emergency plumbing services to get a professional in your house right away. Pros have dealt with this situation countless times over their careers. They know exactly what to do and what to avoid. They can execute their plan perfectly, so you can have the item back in no time at all. With their help, you won’t have to worry about losing a piece of jewelry or other important assets.
Plumbers can employ a variety of techniques for retrieval based on the location of the item in the drain. The deeper it goes, the harder it gets to get a good outcome. Professional help is essential if it is no longer visible. Just make sure that you do what you can, which is to stop the flow of water as soon as possible. Avoid anything that could make the situation worse than it already is. Once the plumber reaches your home, he will move quickly to find the item and remove it from the pipes. You will soon be using your kitchen sink as if nothing happened.
Conclusion
You don’t have to wait until you have a leak or a clog before you call a plumber. Any solid object that falls down the drain is a cause for concern. If you ignore it, then it may eventually block the passage of water through the pipes. Act as fast as possible to prevent this from happening. It will save you from the stench of standing water and the inconvenience of not being able to use your kitchen sink. It will also help you prevent the loss of a precious item. Call the professionals for your peace of mind.
Call Robinson Plumbing For Superior Plumbing Services
Contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the most trusted plumbing companies in the Lehigh Valley, for reliable plumbing services. We offer various plumbing services ranging from drain clogs, water heater replacements, toilet repairs, water leaks, and more. We always give a wide range of solutions when possible for any plumbing repairs. This allows you to choose the best options for your home and budget.
Find yourself dealing with an unexpected plumbing problem in the middle of the night? No worries! You can count on the expert plumbers at Robinson Plumbing to take care of you. We offer reliable 24-hour emergency plumbing services. You can count on us to get the job done quickly and correctly and, best of all, at an affordable price.
We proudly offer the most affordable and best plumbing services in the Lehigh Valley area. Our plumbers all have the proper licenses and expertise to ensure your satisfaction. All of our work comes with a guarantee. Contact Robinson Plumbing today and schedule your free estimate.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have!