How to deal with a slow-draining sink and when to call a plumber

 A slow-draining sink may present itself as a small inconvenience that slightly lengthens the time of daily activities. But over time, this minor inconvenience can quickly turn into a significant plumbing problem, as a partial blockage becomes a complete obstruction.

Understanding the causes

Partially clogged or slowly draining sinks can be caused by a number of factors, but most commonly they are caused by a build-up of grease, food residue, hair, soap scum and other debris getting stuck in the drains. As debris builds up in the pipes, the obstruction can grow and progress from a partial to a complete obstruction.

Slow-draining sinks can also be caused by tree roots infiltrating and damaging the pipes in search of water. The roots can penetrate the pipes through cracks or joints and, as they grow, can cause further damage and block the pipes completely.

Do-it-yourself solutions to try

If your sinks only drain slowly from time to time, it could be a minor problem, such as a build-up of dirt or soap scum. In these cases, simple do-it-yourself solutions can be used to clear the blockage, for example:

Boiling water: The simplest solution to clear a partial clog is to pour boiling water down the drain. This solution can help dissolve any soap residue or small amounts of grease to remove the clog and promote water flow.

Plunger: if simply pouring hot water down the drain fails to clear the clog, you may need to use a little elbow grease using a plunger. Plungers are one of the most effective methods to break up blockages and get the pipes flowing again. Make sure you have a tight seal, then plunge vigorously for about a minute and then try flushing the drain again.

Clean the P-Trap: curved pipes under sinks are known to catch food and debris and cause clogging. To clear a clog in the P-Trap, locate this fitting under the sink and place a bucket under it before carefully unscrewing the fittings. The P trap can then be emptied and cleaned and reconnected.

When to call a professional plumber

If the best DIY methods fail to clear the blockage or if you notice any of the signs just mentioned, it is time to call a professional plumber. Professional plumbers have years of training, experience and specialised tools to identify and repair blockages in pipes quickly, safely and effectively.

Call the Emergency Plumber in Leicester. We are 24 hours available.