HOW TO UNCLOG A SINK

IF YOUR SINK IS CLOGGED AND PLUNGING fails to clear the blockage, look to your P-trap (or simply, “trap”) before calling a plumber.

- Paul Smith, test editor

It’s that J-shaped piece of plumbing at the bottom of your sink drain. It’s specifically designed to hold or trap water in the pipe after drainage is complete, sealing off the drain system from sewer gas that would otherwise have free entry into your home. It can also trap unwanted solids that inhibit drainage.