If you have ever experienced the unfortunate event of losing a cherished ring, piece of jewelry, or other meaningful trinket down the sink drain, you understand the distress it can cause. It is with empathy and expertise that we offer our expertise. In this blog, we will provide you with the necessary steps to retrieve your item and resolve your sink-drain predicament. Whether you currently find yourself in this plumbing dilemma or wish to be prepared for such an occurrence in the future, read on to discover expert advice from your Bellbrook Plumbing & Drain team.
STEP 1: SHUT THE WATER OFF & LEAVE IT OFF
If you accidentally drop something down your sink drain, it is important to act swiftly. Immediately turn off the sink faucet and refrain from using it until the issue is resolved and the item is safely retrieved. This precaution is necessary to prevent the risk of further flushing the object deeper into the drain and potentially into the mainline. Typically, smaller items such as rings tend to become lodged and trapped in the P-trap. It is crucial to retrieve them from this section unless alternative measures are taken. It is worth noting that this can be achieved by ensuring that the water is not turned on and running through the pipes prior to retrieval.
STEP 2: REMOVE THE SINK’S DRAIN STOPPER
To ensure efficient access to your drain, it is recommended to remove the drain stopper (if applicable) and inspect the drain. If the drain stopper does not come out easily, locate the pivot rod arm beneath the sink and unscrew it using a wrench or pliers. You will find it connected to the sink drain pipe. A flashlight or the selfie mode on your phone can assist in obtaining a clearer view of the drainpipe. Once the pivot rod arm is loosened, return to the sink and check if the drain stopper can now be removed. If successful, you may proceed to step three.
STEP 3: TRY USING A GRABBER CLAW TOOL
Ever heard of a Grabber Claw? This nifty tool can make the whole experience a little less daunting. This cool four-pronged gadget is designed to fit into tight spots like a sink drain, so you can easily grab and remove blockages. In our case, it might just help you retrieve your lost item. You can easily find one at any home improvement store. With a little patience and the help of a grabber claw, you might just rescue your ring or lost item from the sink drain and get it back in your hands!
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ALTERNATE STEP 3: TRY USING A MAGNETIC TELESCOPING WAND
There’s another option to consider! Depending on the nature of the item that has been dropped down the sink, you may consider utilizing a telescoping magnetic wand to retrieve it directly from the drain. These convenient wands are magnetic and can be extended, making them exceptionally useful in such situations. However, it is important to note that this particular tool will not be effective in retrieving silver or gold rings/items, as silver and gold are not magnetic.
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ALTERNATE STEP 3: TRY USING A SHOP VACUUM
For this method, you’ll need a shop vac. Start by placing a nylon stocking over the end of the nozzle, ensuring a secure fit. Hold the nozzle firmly and position it directly over the sink drain. Now, turn on the shop vac. With some luck, the suction will pull your ring or other item and trap it in the nylon net. You can then retrieve it easily. This method provides an effective solution to recover lost items.
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ALTERNATE STEP 3: TRY REMOVING THE P-TRAP
The final method to mention is removing the P-trap. This crucial component of your drainpipe, shaped like the letter P, serves a dual purpose. Its main function is to hold pockets of water, effectively trapping toxic and foul-smelling sewer gas, including methane, from entering your home. Additionally, the P-trap acts as a containment system for stray items, such as the small predicament we have currently found ourselves in.
The P-trap, typically constructed of metal or PVC, is located beneath the sink. To effectively retrieve a lost item, place a bucket or container directly beneath the P-trap beforehand. Next, carefully loosen the two nuts positioned above and below the trap. This will enable its removal. Once both nuts are loosened, the P-trap can be detached, allowing the contents to be emptied into the bucket below. Following these steps, you should successfully recover your ring or item.
When concluding your task, remember to securely return everything to its original position, including the drain stopper, pivot rod arm, and the P-trap. In the realm of ring retrieval, precision, and patience are invaluable allies. We hope this blog post has aided you in transforming a potentially dire situation into a successful rescue mission. If not, rest assured that we are always available to assist you with any plumbing needs you may have. Your satisfaction is our priority!
Reach out to Bellbrook Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 240-3731 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!