Plumbing issues in the kitchen can result in flooding, water damage, and unpleasant odors if not addressed on time. From leaking faucets to clogged drains, a professional plumbing appointment or drain clearing can assist in restoring kitchen operations. Here are several kitchen plumbing issues and how they can be fixed:
Clogged Kitchen Sink Drain
Frequent clogs can result from sticky fats and oils disposed of in the sink. If you notice a gurgling noise when using the sink or it takes too long to drain, consult an expert to evaluate the problem. When conducting a drain clearing, plumbing professionals use special tools like drain snakes to manually remove stubborn clogs. If the drain snake doesn’t work, the professional may utilize specialized techniques like hydro-jetting to clear stubborn clogs down the drain. Hydro-jetting machines use a jet of highly pressurized water to clear the pipes.
Leaking Kitchen Faucet
Leaky faucets can occur due to damaged seals, washers, O-rings, or loose fittings around the faucet. To address the issue, a professional plumber will identify the faulty components and replace them using tools like wrenches. If worn seals are causing the leaks, the plumber will replace both the inlet and outlet seals to resolve the problem. The plumber may also recommend replacing older faucet parts, such as the gasket, to help prevent future leaks.
Defective Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal can stop functioning due to clogs, a faulty motor, or a jammed flywheel, causing a buzzing sound. To fix these problems, a plumber manually rotates the impeller to clear any particles causing the jam. If the garbage disposal is clogged, they may use a plunger to dislodge debris. If clearing the drain and troubleshooting the motor doesn’t resolve the issue, the plumber might recommend replacing the entire disposal unit.
Leaking or Clogged Dishwasher
If excess water remains in the base after a complete wash cycle, the dishwasher may be clogged by a blocked filter. Call a professional after clearing the dishwater and disconnecting the appliance from the power outlet. A plumber will remove the bottom dish rack and uncover the grill that shields the filter. This step allows them to inspect the filter for food particles, scrub away debris, and rinse it before reassembling it. If the dishwasher receives an inconsistent water supply, the plumber will check the float’s condition. A damaged float prevents the dishwasher from regulating the water level properly, resulting in drainage issues or leaks from high water levels.
Clogged Washing Machine
Some individuals install their washing machines in the kitchen for easy access to plumbing and electrical connections. A washing machine’s drain pump can clog due to fallen objects or debris accumulation. Constant vibrations during water cycles can also loosen the washing machine hose. If you suspect a loose hose, have a plumber tighten it to fix the issue.
Washer seals and drain hoses may also deteriorate over time and cause leaks, requiring replacement by a trained plumber. A washer failing to spin or drain can indicate that objects are stuck in the outlet pipe, stopping the water flow. Plumbers will clear the hose using a drain snake to remove any debris that is causing the clog.
Leaking Refrigerator
A blocked defrost drain is one cause of a leaking refrigerator. This occurs when debris or food particles prevent the water from flowing to the drain pan, leading to water pooling at the bottom of the fridge or leaking onto the floor. A plumber will locate the drain hole at the back of the fridge and clear the blockage. They may use warm water or a tool to dislodge any debris, making sure the drain is clear and functioning properly. Other causes of leaks include damaged water supply lines, cracked drain pans, and improper leveling. A plumber will inspect these components, tighten or replace compromised parts, and adjust the appliance’s position to make sure it’s level.
Sputtering Water Flow
Unbalanced water flow from the kitchen faucet may indicate a clogged aerator or faulty valve tubes. A plumber will remove the aerator and soak it in a solution to loosen the mineral particles. After thoroughly washing and rinsing the aerator, they will reattach it to restore proper flow. If the valve cartridges are defective, your plumber should replace them and make sure the water flow returns to normal.
Schedule a Drain Clearing
Addressing kitchen plumbing issues promptly can maintain the room’s functionality and prevent more extensive damage like mold growth. Regular maintenance and drain clearings also help prevent water back-ups. If you encounter frequent plumbing issues in your kitchen, contact a reputable plumber and schedule a drain clearing today.
