Air Lock vs. Clogged Drain: How to Tell the Difference
Introduction When your sink refuses to drain, the first thought is usually a clog. But sometimes, it isn’t food scraps or grease causing the problem—it could be an air lock in waste pipe. Both an air lock in sink drain and a traditional clog cause slow drainage, but the solutions are very different. Knowing the difference will save you time, effort, and frustration. What Is an Air Lock in Drain Pipe? An air lock happens when air gets trapped inside the plumbing system, creating a blockage that stops water from flowing. Common in U-bends or horizontal pipes, an air lock in kitchen sink drain can make it seem like your sink is clogged when it’s actually not. What Is a Clogged Drain? A clogged drain occurs when solid materials—like food scraps, grease, soap scum, or hair—block the pipe. Unlike an airlock, clogs usually build up over time and cause slow draining sink not clogged situations to turn into completely blocked drains. Signs of an Air Lock vs. Clog Air Lock in Waste Pipe Water n...