How to Fix a Clogged Commercial Sink Faucet?

Use a Plunger to Clear Clogs in Commercial Sink Faucet

When your commercial sink faucet starts dripping sluggishly or has weak water flow, a plunger is the first tool to reach for—it’s straightforward, affordable, and effective for most minor clogs. Begin by filling the sink with 2-3 inches of water (this helps build up the necessary suction). Next, press the plunger firmly over the faucet’s drain opening, ensuring it fully covers the entire hole (if the sink has a second drain, plug it with a cloth to maintain strong suction). Push and pull the plunger firmly 10-15 times—avoid moving too quickly, as this can break the suction seal. Afterward, lift the plunger rapidly and check if water drains normally. If the clog persists, repeat the process 2-3 more times. This method works best for clogs caused by food scraps (such as rice grains or vegetable peels) that are trapped near the drain opening. It’s safe for all types of commercial sink faucets and won’t harm the faucet or pipes—ideal for busy cafes or restaurants that can’t afford operational downtime.

Use Baking Soda & Vinegar to Unclog Commercial Sink Faucet

For clogs that a plunger can’t resolve (like grease or soap scum accumulation), a mixture of baking soda and vinegar is a natural, non-toxic solution—perfect for commercial kitchens looking to avoid harsh chemicals. Start by pouring ½ cup of baking soda down the drain of the commercial sink faucet. Then, slowly pour ½ cup of white vinegar over the baking soda—you’ll see fizzing (this is the mixture breaking down the clog). Cover the drain with a plug or cloth to trap the fizz, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes (the longer it sits, the more effectively it breaks down the clog). After the waiting period, boil a pot of water (but let it cool for 30 seconds—extremely hot water can damage plastic pipes) and pour it down the drain to flush away the loosened clog. This method is gentle on commercial sink faucet components and pipes, and it leaves no chemical residue—essential for kitchens that handle food. It’s also more cost-effective than store-bought drain cleaners, helping your business save money.

Take Apart & Clean the Aerator of Commercial Sink Faucet

Sometimes the clog isn’t in the drain—it’s in the aerator of the commercial sink faucet (the small screen at the end of the spout that mixes air with water). A clogged aerator leads to uneven water flow or splashing. Fixing this issue is simple: first, turn off the water supply under the sink (there are usually two valves—one for hot water and one for cold water). Then, use your hands (or a pair of pliers wrapped in a cloth to prevent scratching the faucet) to twist the aerator counterclockwise and remove it. Rinse the aerator under running water to remove debris (such as mineral deposits or small food particles). If it’s still clogged, soak it in a bowl of white vinegar for 10 minutes, then gently scrub it with a toothbrush. Once clean, twist the aerator back onto the spout clockwise, and turn the water supply back on. This process takes only 5-10 minutes and instantly fixes water flow problems—crucial for commercial kitchens that need fast, steady water flow for cleaning or food preparation.

Conclusion

Fixing a clogged commercial sink faucet doesn’t require hiring a plumber—you can do it using simple tools and natural solutions: use a plunger for minor food clogs, baking soda and vinegar for grease or soap scum buildup, and clean the aerator to resolve flow issues. These methods are fast, inexpensive, and safe for commercial kitchen equipment, helping you avoid costly downtime (a major benefit for businesses that rely on consistent water flow). Additionally, regular maintenance (such as monthly vinegar soaks for the aerator) can prevent clogs from forming in the first place, extending the lifespan of your commercial sink faucet. For restaurant, café, or catering owners, knowing how to fix these clogs on your own saves time and money while keeping your kitchen running smoothly. It’s a small skill that makes a significant difference in your daily operations.