Why is My Double Kitchen Sink Backing Up to the Other Side?

12 Dec

Double sinks are designed with seperate drain lines

Double kitchen sinks are designed with two separate drain lines.

When everything is functioning properly, water and waste flow freely down each drain without interfering with each other. However, when one side of your sink starts backing up into the other, it indicates that there's an issue somewhere in your plumbing system that needs your attention. Let's dive into why this happening and explore what you can do to fix it.

The Main Causes

Even though your double kitchen sink has two separate drains, they eventually meet up at a common point before going further down into your home's main drainpipes. Thus, if there's a clog or blockage there, it affects both sides equivalently.

Blockages: The most common reason for one sink to back up into the other is due to blockages. These can be as a result of food scraps, grease, soap build-up, or any object that has fallen into the sink.
Plumbing Design flaws: In some cases, the problem could be due to the way your plumbing system has been assembled. For example, if the slopes used in the drainage pipes are inadequate, it can result in slow drainage or backflow.

How To Rectify The Issue

The solution to the problem of your double kitchen sink backing up to the other side generally involves clearing the obstruction or correcting a faulty plumbing design.

Here's how to go about it.

Using a Plunger: This is one of the simplest and most effective methods to clear blocked drains. Ensure you cover the other sink drain to create a vacuum which increases the efficiency of the plunger.
Snake the Drain: If using a plunger proves fruitless, you may need to use a snake or auger. This tool allows you to reach deeper into your drain to dislodge the stubborn clog.
Call a Professional: If all else fails, it's time to call a professional plumber. A persistent issue could indicate a more serious underlying problem with your system that needs expert attention.

Remember, in managing your double kitchen sink, prevention is always better than cure. Regularly cleaning your drains and ensuring nothing goes down there that shouldn't can go a long way preventing annoying backups and potential damage to your system.

Conclusion

Dealing with a double kitchen sink backing up to the other side can be a real headache. But with the right information and approach, you can quickly diagnose and deal with the issue. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to seek a professional's help - it's better to be safe than sorry.