The most common plumbing issue is a slow-draining sink. Typically, the problem is caused by hair, soap, grease, and other debris clogging the drain. While you may be able to use your sink for a while, it will soon become a much bigger issue. With this in mind, here's how to repair a slow-draining sink—you can try several plumbing solutions.
- Determine if the issue is limited to a single sink.
Check the other sinks to ensure that the problem is isolated to one sink, not a more significant plumbing issue in your home. If not, it may indicate that your septic tank is backing up. Contact a professional plumber right away.
- Attempt the Natural Method (Vinegar and Baking Soda).
Pour 14 cups of baking soda 1 cup of vinegar and down the drain, one of the most traditional plumbing solutions for a slow-draining sink. If you have one, wait 15 minutes after plugging the drain with a sink stopper. Then pour the hot, boiling water down the drain. Repeat as needed.
- Attempt the Plunging Method.
The plunging method is another way to fix a slow-draining sink. If you're working with a bathroom sink, remove the sink stopper; otherwise, you'll move the plug up and down. Pull the sink stopper up, turn it to the left, and unscrew it. Fill the sink halfway with water to cover the drain. Begin plunging after ensuring that the plunger is tightly sealed around the drain. Next, use a flashlight to search for and remove any blockages. If you can't see the obstruction, repeat this step.
- Examine Your P-Trap.
Build-up can sometimes be found in the P-trap. Begin by placing a bucket beneath your P-trap and removing it with a screwdriver. Examine your P-trap for any potential blockages and remove them. If there is no visible obstruction, the clog could be in the pipe that leads to the wall. If this is the case, you will need to use a plumbing snake, but plumbers advise against doing so if you are inexperienced because it can cause additional problems. Your next best option is to contact a plumber.
- Use Boiling Water.
When soap residue, hair, grease, and other debris become clogged in your drain, boiling water may be all that is required to clear the blockage. Because it is the simplest solution, it should be your first choice when attempting to unclog a sink. Bring some water to a boil on the stove or kettle, then pour the hot water directly into the drain opening. Then, turn on the faucet to see if the water drains consistently. Repeat the process if it is draining slowly or standing in the sink.
- Make use of the plumber's snake.
Clogs that fight back necessitate using a plumber's snake to clear the blockage. The tool has a spiral snake that is coiled and reaches down the drain. Crank the handle when the snake comes into contact with an obstruction to dislodge the debris and pull it out of the drain. Electric snakes have even more power to unclog drains.
A wire coat hanger will suffice if you don't have a plumber's snake. Unwind the hanger into a long piece of wire with needle-nose pliers. Keep the hooked end because this is what you'll use to grab onto the debris. Use pliers to adjust the hook's angle, so it fits easily through the drain opening.
- Use Homemade Drain Cleaners.
After the larger debris has been removed, mild homemade drain cleaning cleaners can clean the drain pipes. Combining two common and inexpensive household products can help break down the mucky buildup inside drain pipes. Getting even a small amount of the buildup out of the drain can allow it to flow freely again. You can avoid harsh chemicals and save money by cleaning your drain.
- Remove Hair Strands.
Hair is the most common cause of clogged bathroom sink pipes. The best way to clear this clog is to use your bare fingers to pull out any hair in the drain. If you cannot remove the loose hairs, seek the assistance of a trained professional.
Final Thoughts
A clogged, slow sink drain is a common plumbing problem. It may be time for a drain cleaning if your kitchen sink drain takes longer to empty. Nothing is more aggravating than a slow-draining drain. While you may not notice it, a slow drain can be inconvenient, time-consuming, and annoying! Fortunately, there are simple solutions that anyone can use to clear a slow drain. However, if these solutions do not work or you are concerned about adverse side effects, it is always best to contact a professional plumber. A clogged, slow sink drain is a common plumbing problem. It may be time for a drain cleaning if your kitchen sink drain takes longer to empty.
