Obstructed sink drain or hose

A clog is the most common cause of a slow-draining sink. Soap, grease, food, dirt, and hair can build up and cause blockages, while solid objects that accidentally fall down the drain can too. Sometimes you can pull debris out of the drain or use a plunger. However, plumbers have even more ingenious methods, for inspecting hydraulic pipes and augers, for removing clogs.

Problems with the sink drain hose

A clog, sediment build up, or leak in a drain pipe can slow the sink’s ability to drain water. Drain pipes are different from supply lines. They connect to the main sewer line, so if there is a problem, the waste water may not drain out of your home and may even start to stagnate. A problem with the drain hose is difficult to diagnose without the help of a plumber.

Clogged / damaged / frozen vent pipes

Vent pipes are important plumbing components that allow fresh air inside, creating a vacuum that eliminates odor-causing gases. However, the air pressure can become unbalanced. This can lead to slower sink drainage. Common causes of vent pipe problems include freezing in the winter and blocking of leaves in the fall.

Tree root intrusion

Sewer lines have moisture and nutrients that trees thrive on. Tree root intrusion is a common problem; once the roots enter the sewer line, they can spread throughout the system. Slow-draining sinks are only a symptom, but may indicate the need to replace the affected hose. Only a plumbing technician has the tools and skills to correct the problem.

Hydraulic ageing system

Plumbing pipes, connections and other components deteriorate with age and exposure to corrosive substances. The older your plumbing, the more prone it is to problems, such as slow sinking. You can extend the life of your system with regular maintenance. But if your sink drains slowly and the plumbing is several decades old, it may be time to replace it.

Can I fix a leak in the sink?

While many commercial drain cleaners contain chemicals that do more harm than good, there are ways to clean a clogged drain relatively safely. You can try cleaning the sink plug, lifting debris with a straightened wire hook or drain cleaning tool, or using a plunger or drain auger sold at a home improvement store. But if these methods don’t work, contact a professional, as serious plumbing issues could be at play.

If your sink drains slowly, call a plumber in Leicester. The plumbers in Leicester we work with are experts in dealing with any cause of slow discharge. Call us to request assistance and benefit from our 100% satisfaction guarantee.