Hi,

We have two, probably-related problems: (1) when we run the garbage disposal, located in the left hand side of the sink, we sometimes get a bunch of dirty water coming up on the right hand side of the sink; and (2) when we run the dishwasher, we sometimes get the same dirty water coming out of the right-hand sink. There is a tube that runs from the dishwasher to the downspout of the right hand sink.

We have been in the house for about a year and this just started happening. I'm wondering if I need to call a plumber or if there are steps I can take to get this to stop. Please help! Thanks!

You have a clog in the lateral drain line,( the horizontal drain line in the wall behind the sink). Remove the "J" bend from the trap and send a snake up the pipe into the wall. You will hit a bend about 8 inches in but once around it you only have to put out 5 or 6 feet more. Afterwards flush the drain out with a few sinks full of hot water. Good luck, Tom

Thanks Tom. I'll try it and let you know how it goes.