Should I fix a slow draining sink by myself or contact a professional plumber?

Slow draining sinks are among the most frustrating plumbing inconveniences everyone must have faced at least once in their lifetime. This is a very common problem but is very persistent as well. 

A slow-draining sink can make simple tasks like washing dishes and simply brushing your teeth and washing your face very irritating and time-consuming. Of course, there are several DIY fixes like using chemicals to clear the clog, is it really worth calling professional plumbers for the same? Let’s find out.

What causes the sink to drain slowly?

There are several reasons behind slow-draining sinks. The most common culprits are:

• Hair and soap scum
• Food particles and grease clog kitchen sinks and lead to their blockages
• Mineral deposits build up on pipes caused by hard water also reduces water flow
• Curved pipes and T-pipes under the sink trap large amounts of debris and lead to clogs
• Or there can be main drain blockages that are hard to identify.

DIY Solutions

Most of the clogs are minor and can be resolved without professional help. If you think there is dirt build-up causing blockage and slow draining, then you can use these tips:

1. Use a plunger

This is the most effective way to dislodge clogs in the P-trap and is the easiest as well as quickest method. You just need to fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger’s cup and then place the plunger over the drain and ensure it is sealed properly. After that pump the plunger up and down vigorously for a few seconds. Then when you lift the plunger, you will find water draining. If you think the water speed is not as normal, then repeat the process for a few more times.

2. Use natural drain cleaners

Though in most cases plunger is very effective, but if doesn’t work, you can try a natural drain cleanser. To make a natural drain cleanser, simply pour about half a cup of baking soda into the drain and then pour another half cup of vinegar. This mixture acts as a natural cleanser and within 15-20 minutes it will do its job. You will hear a fizzing sound of the reaction between these two chemicals that will break the clogs down. To give a finishing touch, pour some boiling water down the drain to flush out the remaining debris.

3. Use drain snake

A drain snake is also known as a plumber’s auger that is highly effective in cleaning stubborn clogs. Here’s how it works. Just insert the snake into the drain until you feel it is stuck. Then, rotate the handle to get hold of the clog. Once you feel the clog is grabbed, slowly pull the snake out to remove the clog out of the drain. Finally, run hot water into the drain to clear out any remaining debris.

4. Clean the P-trap

P-trap is the curved section of pipe under the sink and most of the clogs are formed there only. Therefore, cleaning the P-trap regularly can prevent the forming of clogs and avoid slow draining of the sink. For this, first place a small bucket under the p-trap to catch water while cleaning. Then loosen the slip nuts on both the sides of P-trap using a wrench or pliers. Swiftly remove the P-trap and clear all the debris out. Reassemble carefully once it’s done.

Remember, these methods are fine only for minor clogs. If you exert too much pressure and force while cleaning, then you may end up damaging the drains and pipes. So, when it should you call the professionals?

When to call professional plumbing services?

Most of the time, slow-draining sinks are easily solved with the DIY methods that we discussed above. However, there are few signs that indicate, this problem requires professional attention. Here’s the sign that you must not ignore:

1. Persistent clogs

If your sink drains slowly every now and then even after cleaning and clearing the clogs, then there might be deeper issues that can be solved only by professionals.

2. Multiple clogs

If multiple drains in the home are slow and clogged then it indicates there is a problem in the main sewer line and that must be attended to by professionals only to prevent further damage.

3. Foul odors

Bad smells though are unpleasant experiences, they are a great indicator of serious blockage and sewer line problems.

4. Water damage

Water damage around the sink, cabinet, and floors is also an indicator of leaks that need immediate professional attention.

5. Persistent issues

If you find frequent clogs that always reappear even after cleaning and all the measures, then the plumber can help to identify and fix serious problems.

Prevent Future Clogs

To keep your sink draining smoothly, you can follow these preventive measures:

• Use a drain cover to prevent hair, food particles, and other dirt from going into the drain
• Avoid pouring grease into drains
• Always run hot water as it helps to clear out small debris
• Clean regularly using baking soda and vinegar to prevent clog build-up

These methods can help minimize persistent slow-draining issues.

Contact Everest Mechanical to fix your major plumbing issues

If you are frequently facing plumbing issues then you must contact Everest Mechanical, the most trusted and reliable plumbing services company in Colorado. 

At Everest Mechanical, we have a team of experienced and qualified professionals that can help you find the root cause of all sorts of plumbing issues and help clear the stubborn clog and other underlying pipe damages. 

We use the most advanced equipment and provide both residential and commercial plumbing services. Our professional plumbers can help detect potential problems like leaks and suggest protective measures to save you future costly repairs. With our warrantied and licensed plumbing services, you can rest assured about the quality plumbing services in all parts of Colorado including Denver, Fort Collins, Arvada, Boulder, Estes Park, and other nearby regions. So, for all your plumbing services and needs in Colorado, contact Everest Mechanical now.

Fixing a slow-draining sink is usually a straightforward task that you can handle with some basic tools and a little effort. By identifying the cause of the clog and following these steps, you can restore your sink to full functionality and avoid future issues. If you encounter a particularly stubborn clog that you can’t resolve, don’t hesitate to call Everest Mechanical, the professional plumber for assistance.