If you’ve ever experienced the unfortunate loss of a cherished ring, valuable jewelry, or any significant trinket down the sink drain, you understand the distressing nature of such an event. Perhaps it’s this particular event that has led you to this blog today. Rest assured, you have come to the right place. We empathize with the seriousness of the situation and are here to provide assistance. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the retrieval process, allowing you to resolve your sink-drain predicament effectively. So, whether you currently find yourself in this plumbing dilemma or wish to equip yourself with this knowledge for future reference, continue reading for the step-by-step instructions provided by your knowledgeable team at Five Star Dayton Plumbing.
STEP 1: TURN THE WATER OFF & LEAVE IT OFF
If an object falls into your sink drain, it is crucial to act promptly and take immediate action to prevent further complications. Turn off the sink faucet immediately and refrain from using it until the issue is resolved and the item is retrieved. You want to avoid the risk of pushing the object deeper into the drain and potentially causing damage to the mainline. Typically, small items such as rings tend to become lodged in the P-trap and can only be retrieved from there. However, this is only possible if the water is not turned on and does not flow through the pipes beforehand. Taking these precautions will help ensure a successful retrieval and prevent any additional issues.
STEP 2: TAKE OUT THE DRAIN STOPPER
At this point, you may have already removed the drain stopper (if applicable to your sink) to examine the drain. If you have not done so yet, kindly remove it carefully to expedite access to the drain. In the event that the drain stopper cannot be removed easily, you will need to locate the pivot rod arm under the sink and unscrew it from the sink’s drainpipe. You may need a wrench or pliers to grip and twist off the pivot rod arm. Depending on your circumstances, a flashlight can be useful for illumination, or you can utilize the selfie mode on your phone to get a better view of the pipe. Once you have successfully loosened that section, return to the drain stopper in the sink and check if it can now be removed. If it can, you may proceed to step three.
STEP 3: TRY UTILIZING A GRABBING TOOL
Have you ever heard of a grabber claw tool? It’s such a handy four-pronged tool designed to fit into narrow spaces, like a sink drain, and grab and remove blockages. In our case, it might just help us retrieve your lost item! You should get one at any home improvement store. With a little bit of patience and the help of a grabber claw, you might just be able to pull yourself out of your sink drain drama and get your ring back in your hands!
OR
ALTERNATE STEP 3: TRY UTILIZING A MAGNETIC TOOL
You might be able to fish your lost item out with a telescoping magnetic wand. These nifty wands are extendable and magnetic, so they’re super handy in a pinch like this. Just remember, they won’t work on silver or gold rings or jewelry since those aren’t magnetic. If you are interested in trying out this method, you should be able to get one at any home improvement store.
OR
ALTERNATE STEP 3: TRY UTILIZING A SHOP VAC
If you happen to have a shop vac on hand, you can try this method to retrieve your lost ring or item. Begin by covering the end of the shop-vac nozzle with a nylon stocking. Then, securely grip the nozzle and position it directly over the sink drain. Now, switch on the shop vac. Once the shop vac has been turned on, with some luck, the item should be sucked up and caught by the nylon net.
OR
ALTERNATE STEP 3: TRY THE P-TRAP STRATEGY
The final method to mention is the P-trap method. This method involves the use of the P-trap, the curved section in the drainpipe resembling the letter P. Its purpose is to retain water, effectively preventing toxic and foul-smelling sewer gas, such as methane, from entering your home. Additionally, the P-trap serves as a containment system for stray objects, much like our current situation.
The P-trap, which is typically made of metal or PVC, is located under the sink. Before proceeding, it is recommended to place a bucket or container beneath the P-trap to collect any water or debris, including your lost item. Carefully loosen the two nuts positioned above and below the trap to remove it. Once both nuts are loosened, the P-trap can be detached, allowing you to empty its contents into the bucket. At this stage, you should have successfully retrieved your ring or item. Congratulations on your accomplishment!
After completing the task, ensure that everything is securely returned to its original position. This includes the drain stopper, pivot rod arm, and the P-trap. In the realm of ring retrieval, precision and patience are paramount. We trust that this blog has assisted you in transforming a potentially disastrous situation into a successful rescue mission. If you require any further plumbing assistance, rest assured that we are always available to help.
Reach out to Five Star Dayton Plumbing today at (937) 230-6506, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
