Have you ever dropped a valuable item down the sink drain and felt the sinking feeling of dread? You know that it’s going to be difficult, if not impossible, to retrieve – but don’t despair! With a few simple tools and techniques, you can get your items back quickly and safely.
Whether it’s jewelry or an earring stuck in your sink drain or something larger like keys or a phone in the shower drain of your bathtub, we’ll show you how to do it without damaging anything. So read on for our handy guide on how to retrieve an item from a sink drain quickly and safely.
Did You Lose an Item Down the Drain? Here are 3 Steps to Getting It Back
Drain Cover Removal
The first step is to remove the drain cover. This may be a bit tricky, as some covers are more tightly sealed than others. If you’re having difficulty, try using an adjustable wrench or pliers to loosen the covering before lifting it off. Use pliers to grip the edges of the drain cover and twist it counterclockwise. Use an adjustable wrench to grip the edges and turn it in the same direction. If neither of these solutions work, you may need to call a licensed plumber to safely remove the drain cover without causing damage to your sink or plumbing. Remember, it’s always important to exercise caution when dealing with plumbing issues to prevent unintentional damage.
Auger or Drain Snake
Once the drain cover is removed, you can use a metal coat hanger with the hook cut off to reach in and retrieve your item. Bend the end of the hanger into a small hook shape (be sure not to make it too sharp) and put on a rubber glove for added protection from bacteria and dirt that might be present in your sink or shower drain. Gently lower the hanger into the drain until it contacts your item, then carefully lift it out.
If this doesn’t work, you may need to use a drain snake. These tools are designed to reach deep into drains and grab items that have become stuck in the pipes. Connect the snake to an extension rod and lower it into your sink or shower drain until it contacts your item – then carefully twist it to hook onto the object before gently lifting it out.
Professional Plumbing Service
For really stubborn items, you may need to enlist professional assistance. A qualified Indianapolis plumber will be able to access your drains using specialized equipment and retrieve any lost items quickly and safely. Whatever method you choose, do remember that there is always a risk of damaging your plumbing system when retrieving objects from sinks or shower drains.
Stay Up to Date With Routine Drain Cleaning and Maintenance
To maintain the cleanliness and functionality of your kitchen and bathroom, it’s important to keep your sink, shower, and tub drains well-maintained. With frequent use, these drains can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris, resulting in slow drainage or even a complete blockage. To avoid the hassle of drain repair, consider implementing a regular maintenance routine that includes the use of a drain cleaner or a DIY solution of baking soda and vinegar. Additionally, make sure to never pour grease or oil down your drains, as these substances can solidify and cause major blockages over time. By taking care of your drains, you can ensure they’re working properly and avoid any potential plumbing issues down the road.
The next time you lose something important down the drain, don’t hesitate to reach out to us right away! Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers serve residential and commercial clients.
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