What should I do if my HDB kitchen sink is completely blocked?

First try a plunger on the drain for 2-3 minutes. If unsuccessful, the blockage is likely deeper in the pipes - common in older HDB blocks. For severe blockages affecting the main drainage, contact a PUB-licensed plumber immediately. Cost: DIY tools $15-30, professional service $80-150.

How much does it cost to fix a blocked kitchen sink in Singapore?

DIY solutions cost $15-30 for tools (plunger, drain snake). Professional plumber services range from $80-150 for standard blockages, $150-300 for severe cases requiring pipe clearing, plus $50-100 emergency surcharge for after-hours service.

When should I call a plumber instead of trying DIY for my blocked sink?

Call a plumber if: water backs up into other drains, sewage smell is present, multiple attempts with plunger fail, water level rises instead of draining, or you suspect main pipe blockage. Professional help prevents damage to HDB sewage systems.

How can I prevent my HDB kitchen sink from getting blocked?

Pour grease and food waste into plastic bags instead of down the drain. Use a sink strainer to catch debris. Run hot water after each use. Pour boiling water weekly to dissolve grease buildup. Clean the strainer regularly.

QUICK SOLUTIONS

HDB Kitchen Sink Completely Blocked?

Don't panic! Learn when to try DIY solutions vs when to call a professional plumber. Save money and prevent damage with our complete guide.

7-minute read

95% success rate with DIY

DIY or Call Plumber? Decide in 30 Seconds

Try DIY First If:

Only your kitchen sink is affected
Water drains slowly but still goes down
No sewage smell
Recent grease or food debris buildup
First time experiencing this blockage

💰 DIY Cost: $15-30 | Success Rate: 85%

Call Plumber If:

Water backs up into other drains
Sewage smell from drain
Water level rises when you run tap
Multiple drain attempts failed
Affecting neighbor's drainage

💰 Professional Cost: $80-150 | Prevents Damage

DIY Solutions: Step-by-Step Guide

Plunger Method (Most Effective)

85% Success Rate

What You Need:

Cup plunger ($10-15 from Mr. DIY)
Old towels for cleanup
Rubber gloves

Steps:

1. Remove any standing water with cup/bowl
2. Place plunger over drain opening
3. Plunge vigorously for 2-3 minutes
4. Pour hot water to test drainage
5. Repeat if partially successful

Pro Tip: This works for 85% of HDB kitchen sink blockages caused by grease and food debris buildup.

Natural Cleaning Method

60% Success Rate

What You Need:

1 cup baking soda
1 cup white vinegar
Boiling water
Drain plug or cloth

Steps:

1. Pour baking soda down the drain
2. Add vinegar slowly
3. Plug drain immediately for 30 minutes
4. Flush with boiling water
5. Test with running water

Best For: Grease buildup and mild blockages. Safe for HDB pipes and environmentally friendly.

Drain Snake (Advanced DIY)

70% Success Rate

What You Need:

Drain auger/snake ($20-30)
Rubber gloves
Bucket for debris

Steps:

1. Insert snake into drain opening
2. Turn handle while pushing down
3. Feel for resistance (blockage)
4. Pull up debris carefully
5. Flush with hot water

Caution: Be gentle to avoid damaging HDB pipes. Stop if you feel strong resistance.

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional

DIY Solutions

Plunger (Mr. DIY)$10-15

Drain snake$20-30

Baking soda + vinegar$5-8

Total DIY Cost$15-30

✅ One-time purchase, reusable tools

Professional Service

Standard call-out$80-120

Severe blockage$150-250

Main pipe clearing$200-400

Typical Cost$80-150

✅ Guaranteed fix, warranty included

Emergency Service

After hours (6pm-9am)+$50-100

Weekends/holidays+$30-80

Immediate response+$50

Emergency Total$150-300

⚠️ Higher cost but prevents major damage

When DIY Isn't Enough: Professional Help

Red Flags: Call Plumber Immediately

Multiple drains affected: Indicates main pipe blockage
Sewage backup: Health hazard requiring immediate attention
Foul smell: Indicates sewage pipe issues
Water backing up: Risk of flooding
Recurring blockages: Deeper pipe problem

What Professionals Can Do

Hydro jetting: High-pressure water clears major blockages
Camera inspection: Identifies exact blockage location
Pipe repair: Fixes damaged or corroded sections
Main line clearing: Clears HDB sewage system blockages
Preventive maintenance: Ongoing service plans

Emergency Plumber Contacts

Quick Fix Specialists

HDB drain experts, $80 standard rate

Rapid Response Plumbing

30-minute response, transparent pricing

Call Now →

24/7 Emergency

Island-wide coverage, licensed

Singapore Drain Solutions

Camera inspection available

Call Now →

HDB Specialists

Older HDB blocks expertise

Elite Plumbing Services

Free quotes, warranty included

Get Quote →

Prevention: Stop Blockages Before They Start

Daily Habits

Pour grease into plastic bags, not down the drain
Use sink strainer to catch food debris
Run hot water after each use
Avoid washing large food particles down drain
Clean strainer daily

Weekly Maintenance

Pour boiling water down drain weekly
Use baking soda + vinegar monthly
Check for slow drainage early
Remove and clean sink strainer thoroughly
Run water for 30 seconds after use

Pro Tip from HDB Plumbers

"Most HDB kitchen sink blockages happen because residents pour cooking oil and grease down the drain. In Singapore's heat, grease solidifies in pipes within hours. Always scrape plates clean and dispose of grease in the waste chute instead of the sink."

Still Can't Clear Your Blocked Sink?

Don't risk damaging your HDB pipes. Get connected with licensed plumbers who specialize in HDB drainage systems.

Find Emergency Plumber →Get Free Quote