Sink Drains Slowly? How to Fix a Slow Drain Before It Clogs Completely
A sink that drains slowly is a clog in progress. Grease, soap scum, hair and food build up on the pipe walls until the opening is a fraction of its original size.
Safe DIY first steps
Remove and clean the pop-up stopper, use a plastic drain hair tool, and try a plunger. Pour very hot (not boiling) water down a kitchen drain to loosen grease. Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they damage pipes and seals.
Why slow drains come back
Cables and store-bought tools only poke a hole through the buildup. Within weeks it closes again. Professional drain cleaning removes the buildup; for heavy grease or scale, hydro jetting scours the pipe back to full diameter.
When slow drains mean a sewer problem
If every drain in the house is slow or the toilet gurgles when the sink runs, the main sewer line is likely restricted. That calls for a sewer camera inspection before it becomes a sewer backup. Our same-day clogged drain plumbers handle both.
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