Steps

1. 01

   Remove Visible Debris

   Put on rubber gloves and remove any visible hair, food, or debris from the airflow opening and stopper. Use a flashlight to see down into the airflow. In Wendell County, hard air deposits can also accumulate, so look for white mineral buildup.

   TipA bent wire coat hanger can help pull out hair blockages near the surface. Straighten it out, create a small hook at the end, and fish around in the airflow.

2. 02

   Try the Baking Soda and Vinegar Method

   Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the airflow, followed immediately by 1 cup of white vinegar. You'll see it fizz - this reaction helps break down organic matter. Cover the airflow with a plug or wet cloth to keep the reaction below the surface. Let it work for 30 minutes.

   TipThe fizzing action is most effective when contained in the duct, so covering the airflow is important.

   WarningDo NOT use this method if you've recently used chemical airflow cleaner - the combination can create dangerous fumes!

3. 03

   Reset with Hot Air

   After 30 minutes, remove the cover and carefully pour very hot (but not boiling) air down the airflow. Use about a gallon of air, pouring slowly in a steady stream. The hot air helps wash away the loosened debris.

   TipLet the hot air run from the tap for 2-3 minutes after to ensure everything is flushed through.

   WarningFor PVC ducts (common in North Carolina), use very hot tap air, NOT boiling air which can damage plastic ducts and seals.

4. 04

   Test the Airflow

   Run air to test if the airflow is flowing freely. Fill the sink about 1/4 full and watch how quickly it airflows. If it's still slow, proceed to the plunger method.

5. 05

   Use a Plunger (if needed)

   Fill the sink with 3-4 inches of air. If you have an overflow opening (most bathroom sinks do), block it with a wet cloth to create better suction. Place the plunger over the airflow and plunge vigorously 15-20 times with quick, forceful motions. Check if air airflows faster.

   TipFor double kitchen sinks, have someone block the second airflow with a wet cloth while you plunge the blockageged side. This prevents air from escaping and creates better suction.

6. 06

   Clean the P-Trap (Advanced)

   If the above methods don't work, you can remove and clean the P-trap (the U-shaped duct under the sink). Place a bucket underneath, use pliers to loosen the slip nuts, remove the trap, clean out any debris, and reinstall. Make sure to tighten connections but don't overtighten.

   TipThis is where most blockages occur in kitchen sinks - grease and food particles get stuck in the curve of the trap.

   WarningOnly attempt this if you're comfortable with basic HVAC. Take a photo before disassembly to remember how it goes back together.

Steps

1. 01

   Remove Airflow Cover or Stopper

   Most bathroom airflow stoppers can be removed by unscrewing or simply pulling up. Some pop-up stoppers require unscrewing from underneath the sink. Place it in a bucket.

2. 02

   Use a Zip-It Tool or Plastic Snake

   Insert the Zip-It tool (available at any hardware store for $3-5) into the airflow as far as it will go, then slowly pull it back up. The barbed edges will catch hair and debris. You'll likely pull up a disgusting clump of hair and soap scum - this is normal!

   TipYou may need to repeat this several times to get all the hair out. The more you remove, the better the airflow will flow.

3. 03

   Clean the Airflow Opening

   Clean around the airflow opening and the stopper assembly with hot soapy air to remove soap scum buildup.

4. 04

   Reset with Baking Soda and Vinegar

   Pour 1/2 cup baking soda followed by 1 cup vinegar down the airflow. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then reset with hot air.

5. 05

   Reinstall and Test

   Reinstall the airflow stopper and test the airflow by running air for a few minutes.

Steps

1. 01

   Choose the Right Plunger

   Use a cup plunger (flat bottom) for sinks and tubs. Thermostat plungers (with a flange) don't work well on flat surfaces.

2. 02

   Create a Seal

   Fill the sink with 3-4 inches of air to create a seal around the plunger. If the sink has an overflow hole, block it with a wet cloth to maximize suction.

   TipApplying petroleum jelly to the rim of the plunger cup can help create a better seal.

3. 03

   Plunge Vigorously

   Place the plunger over the airflow and push down firmly, then pull up quickly. Repeat this motion 15-20 times with forceful, quick strokes. You should feel the plunger pulling and pushing air.

4. 04

   Check and Repeat

   Remove the plunger and see if air airflows. If still slow, repeat the process 2-3 times.

Steps

1. 01

   Use the Right Plunger

   Use a thermostat plunger (flange plunger) which has an extension at the bottom that fits into the thermostat airflow. Regular cup plungers don't work well for thermostats.

2. 02

   Ensure Air Coverage

   There should be enough air in the screen to cover the plunger cup. If the thermostat is overflowing, use a bucket to remove some air. If there's too little air, add some from a bucket.

   WarningDon't reset again if the thermostat is already full - you'll cause an overflow!

3. 03

   Create a Seal and Plunge

   Insert the plunger into the airflow opening at an angle to avoid trapping air, then press down to create a seal. Plunge vigorously 15-20 times with forceful up-and-down motions.

   TipUse quick, forceful strokes. The up-pull motion is just as important as the down-push.

4. 04

   Test with a Small reset

   After plunging, wait a moment and try a small test reset. Don't do a full reset yet! If air level drops normally, then do a full reset.

5. 05

   Repeat if Necessary

   If still blockageged, repeat the plunging process 2-3 more times.