How To Quickly Fix A Sink That Drains Slowly: Simple Solutions Before Calling An Emergency Plumber

By Author: Smita Jain
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However, it is also good to know the signs of when to call plumbing services or an emergency plumber in case it persists or worsens. In this article, we will be discussing the problems of a slow-stop sink that is draining slowly, and you will be provided with real-world solutions so you can fix a slow-draining sink on your own.

Common Causes of a Slow Draining Sink

Before we jump into how to resolve your persistent plumbing situation, it is important to know the reasons why a sink sometimes drains slowly. In terms of slow drainage, there are a few main issues:

Clogged Drain: The biggest contributor to slow drainage is an obstructed drain. Over time, soap, hair, food remnants, grease, and other substances can build up and block the drain from moving water through.

Grease Build-Up: In kitchens, grease and oils solidify and build up and can obstruct piping or drain openings, especially where the piping is the narrowest.

Blocked Vent: In many drain systems, drainage and pressure need to be vented correctly with an unobstructed ...
... opening, and a dirty vent will lead to drainage problems, too.

Tree Roots: In older homes, roots from trees may extend into buried piping and create slow drainage problems. This will typically need a professional to address.

Broken Pipes: Over time, pipes can thin, corrode, crack, and even collapse in places, creating clogs and slow drainage.
Simple Solutions to Fix a Slow Draining Sink

Depending on what is causing your slow drain, there are a few DIY fixes you can try before you search for plumbers near you. Below are a few techniques to try:

1. Boiling Water

Boiling water is one the fastest and simplest fixes for a slow drain, especially if your clog is from soap and/or grease. In any case, here's a how-to: Boil water in a kettle. Very slowly pour the boiling water down the slow drain, and the hot water should break the clog. Wait for a moment or two to see if the water is draining faster now. This works best in your kitchen sink or somewhere grease or soap has accumulated over time.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

This is just as effective and less chemical than chemical drain cleaners, and works on small clogs. Pour about ½ cup of baking soda directly into the drain first. Then, pour ½ cup of vinegar in the drain as well. Cover the drain and wait 10-15 minutes. Then, wait and flush drain with boiling water to hopefully flush out all the gunk. The reaction in the drain between the vinegar and baking soda can break down the clog and keep the pipes clean.

3. Plunger

A plumber will do wonders at clearing minor clogs and re-establishing good drainage. You don't have to call a professional plumber for this – simply follow these easy steps:

Put the plunger over the drain, making sure it has a good seal.
Push down and pull up with force several times to build pressure that can loosen the clog.
After around 10-15 plunges, see if the water begins draining.
If you don't get instant results, plunge a few more times or try an alternative method.

4. Drain Snake

A drain snake, sometimes referred to as a plumber's snake, is a useful instrument for breaking up clogs that are deeper in the pipes. You may choose to buy one, or even rent one, from a hardware store. This is how to use it:

Feed the drain snake down the drain and then rotate the handle until you hit the clog.
When you meet the obstruction, keep turning the snake to shatter the clog.
Withdraw the snake and pour hot water down the drain to clear any remaining obstructions.
Having a drain snake work can be very effective if the clog is further down the pipes.

5. Clean the Drain Trap

A blocked drain trap (which is the bent pipe located under your sink) is another common source of slow draining. Here’s how to resolve it:

Place a bucket under the trap to catch any water.
Using a wrench, unscrew the trap to take it off.
Check for any obvious obstructions (ie, bits of food or hair) and remove the blockage.
Put the trap back in place and turn on the water to see if it drains. If the water drains adequately, you have probably cleared the obstruction.

Conclusion

An obstructed sink can be bothersome, though there are a few DIY fixes you can try before hiring a plumber. Sometimes, a little boiling water or a drain snake will do the trick. But if the slow drainage continues or you even experience more serious symptoms like odor or backups, search for expert plumbers to get some professional emergency plumbers involved.

Regardless of how serious it may be, you can always rely on plumbing services like RightCliq with specialties such as drain cleaning and repair.

Resource: https://medium.com/@smitajain046/how-to-quickly-fix-a-sink-that-drains-slowly-simple-solutions-before-calling-an-emergency-plumber-4288ea9e6276