Toilets, Sinks, Showers, Tubs and Disposals - Sink backing up; is there anything else I should try?

Hello everyone, my sink is backing up whenever the water is run for any length of time. I've pulled all the removable pipes from under the sink, and none of them have any blockage. I've tried plunging it. I've tried a short auger (or pipe snake thing, whatever it's called), as well as a long (~15-20 foot) snake. I have run out of ideas and am about to call a plumber. If anyone has any more suggestions, I'd love to hear them.

On a side note, this is my first post. I am new to maintaining a house (I'm 19 and just moved in to my parents' rental home), so I still have much to learn. Thanks for your time!

Sometimes drains grow constricted by fat accumulation. This happens when the pipe temperature (farther along the pipe) is cool enough to congeal food oils and even soaps. Some people simply never run hot water down their drains long enough to melt this gunk off.

Try a pot of boiling water, followed by full hot water from the tap.

Hello Shoobie, and welcome to the DIY Forums!

I see Kobuchi has already given you excellent advice, so I hope this will fix your problem and you'll return again.

Connie

Unfortunately, as the drainage issue, per your post, is after the water runs for any length of time, I would guess you have an obstruction in the main drain somewhere. The sink drains properly until the main drain finally fills up with water - causing your backup. While it could be something as simple as fat/grease buildup - I would guess it's something a tad tougher to correct. Might be time to call the landlord (mom/dad)...

Unfortunately, as the drainage issue, per your post, is after the water runs for any length of time, I would guess you have an obstruction in the main drain somewhere. The sink drains properly until the main drain finally fills up with water - causing your backup. While it could be something as simple as fat/grease buildup - I would guess it's something a tad tougher to correct. Might be time to call the landlord (mom/dad)...

Sorry everyone, I should have mentioned that I tried the boiling water idea, but I didn't try running hot tap water afterwards. My dad tried to unplug it, but he couldn't fix it either. I'll try the hot water method again, but I think it's time to call the professionals.

Thanks everyone.

Shoobie - have you traced the drain line? You might find a cleanout in the basement or crawlspace.