If you want to prevent water spills in your kitchen, you should consider installing an overflow system. These systems can be installed at the back of the sink, beneath the taps, or just below the rim. However, experts advise only adding an overflow if you notice that your sink frequently overflows. This is not to say that your sink is less efficient; it simply means that it has less capacity for drainage. The amount of water you use and the methods you use to dispose of waste will determine the likelihood of overflow.
Replace a worn overflow pipe
If you're not sure how to replace a worn overflow pipe, you can contact a DIY store to help you. You can also replace a worn washer yourself. Before replacing the washer, you must turn off the water to the sink. Make sure that your household members are aware that you'll be working on the sink while water is off.
Use boiling water
When you're cleaning your kitchen sink, it is important to thoroughly clean it. This will prevent bacteria from growing in your sink, which may contaminate your dishes and utensils. In addition, an overflow drain will emit an unpleasant odor, which is an indication that it needs to be cleaned. Once this occurs, you should use a pipe-cleaner-type brush to brush the overflow area, and use boiling water to flush out any buildup.
Turn off the water
A kitchen sink overflow should be checked regularly, because it can cause a lot of damage if not addressed immediately. For instance, if you notice that the water flowing into the sink is slow, stagnant, or too strong, you may have a clog in the drain line. In such cases, you should immediately turn off the water and use towels to absorb the water.
If the clog is too hard to clean, you can use a plunger to clear the drain. Be sure to use an adjustable wrench to avoid splashing sewage into your yard. If you're not confident with such a task, consider hiring a restoration contractor, who should be certified to clean biohazards.
Prevent water from overflowing
Most bathroom sinks come with an overflow drain, which prevents water from overflowing. While brass sink don't come with overflow drains, they can easily be retrofitted if you want to install an overflow. The overflow should be installed about one inch away from the rim of the sink.
In addition to overflow protection, installing an overflow can make your kitchen sink much more functional. It prevents sewage gasses from traveling back into the home, and keeps odor from entering the kitchen. A kitchen sink without a trap will continue to function, but it may have a foul odor. If you do decide to install an overflow system, make sure to select a P-trap, which is designed for kitchen sinks and is made of traditional PVC. It is designed to withstand temperatures of up to 140 degrees.
Another option is to install a floor drain in your kitchen. A floor drain is a convenient and inexpensive option, but you should consider insurance and building codes when making this decision.