Slow drains can be a big pain. If water moves slowly in your sink or tub, do not fret. Our Plumbing Services team in Hawthorne, CA has simple tips you can try at home. These tips use easy tools and safe stuff. Most work fast and save you money.
Why drains slow down
Hair, soap, and food bits build up inside pipes. Over time the flow gets less. The result is slow drains and bad smells. Small clog can turn into a big one if you wait.
What you need
- Plunger
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Gloves
- Old towel
- Wire coat hanger or drain snake
- Bucket and wrench for trap
Use a plunger first
A plunger is cheap and works well. Push the plunger down over the drain. Push and pull fast. Do this ten to twenty times. Pull the plunger up hard. The clog may break up. Run hot water to wash it away.
Baking soda and vinegar
Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain. Then pour half a cup of white vinegar. You will see fizz. Let it sit for ten minutes. Then pour a pot of boiling water. This combo breaks soft gunk. It is safe for most pipes.
Boiling water only
If the drain is not very slow, try boiling water. Boil a pot and pour it down in two or three stages. Wait a few seconds between pours. This often clears soap and grease.
Clean the trap under the sink
Put a bucket under the trap. The trap is the curved pipe under the sink. Use a wrench to loosen the slip nuts. Take the trap out slowly. Empty the gunk into the bucket. Rinse the trap and put it back. Tighten the nuts. Run water to check for leaks.
Use a wire hanger or drain snake
If the clog is near the top, a wire coat hanger can work. Straighten the hanger but keep a small hook at the end. Push it down the drain. Pull out hair and gunk. Do not force it hard. A store bought drain snake works in the same way and may reach deeper.
Enzyme drain cleaner for slow builds
Buy an enzyme cleaner for long term care. These use safe bacteria to eat the gunk. Use as the label says. They are not like acid cleaners. They take more time but are kinder to pipes.
Avoid chemical drain cleaners
Strong acid or lye cleaners can burn your skin. They can also harm old pipes. They may clear a clog now but cause a leak later. Use them only as the last choice.
Clear the overflow on tubs and sinks
Tubs and some sinks have an overflow hole. Hair can hide there. Use a thin brush or the end of a wire to clear it. Run water and watch the flow.
Fix slow kitchen drains
For kitchen sinks, do not pour grease down the drain. Use a mesh strainer to catch food bits. Run hot water after each dish wash to move oil along. If both sink bowls share a trap, clear both drains well.
Prevent clogs before they start
Use drain covers for hair and food. Do not flush wipes or paper towels. Run hot water weekly or use the baking soda and vinegar trick monthly. These small steps stop big clogs.
When to call a pro
Try these fixes first. If the drain still runs slow, call a plumber. If water backs up into other drains, the clog may be deep. Call Mr Harris Plumbing & Handyman. We serve Hawthorne, CA and nearby towns. We can find the problem fast and fix it right.
Signs of a serious clog
If water backs up into other drains, it is bad. If water rises in the toilet when you run a sink, call help. If the drain makes loud gurgle sounds, it may be a vent or pipe issue. If you find foul gas or sewer smell, stop use and call a pro. Quick action can save pipes and home today.
A quick checklist
- Plunger ready
- Baking soda and vinegar on hand
- Boiling water pot
- Gloves and towel
- Bucket and wrench
- Wire hanger or drain snake
Safety tips
Wear gloves and safety glasses if you can. Do not mix chemical cleaners. Put a towel under the sink to catch spills. If you smell gas or see rusted pipes, stop and call a pro.
Want more tips?
Check our other guides for more home help. Read our blog for tackle tips and more. You can find links to our published blogs at Mr Harris Plumbing & Handyman. Ask us if you want a step by step photo guide.
Call to action
If a fix is too hard or the clog keeps coming back, we can help. Call Mr Harris Plumbing & Handyman for trusted Plumbing Services in Hawthorne, CA. We are here to make your home safe and dry.
FAQ
Q: Can I use baking soda and vinegar every week?
A: Yes. It is safe for most pipes. Do it monthly to keep drains clear.
Q: Will boiling water hurt PVC pipes?
A: Pour slowly. Very hot water can warp some plastic. Use warm water if you are not sure.
Q: When should I replace a trap?
A: If it is cracked or rusted, replace it. A pro can do this fast.
Q: Do enzyme cleaners work fast?
A: They work slow but last long. Use them as a care plan.
Q: How do I stop kitchen grease?
A: Wipe pans with paper and throw it in the trash. Run hot water after washing.
Closing
Slow drains are a common home pain. With a plunger and small tools you can fix many clogs. Take these steps and save time and cash. If you need help, Mr Harris Plumbing & Handyman offers fast Plumbing Services in Hawthorne, CA. We are happy to help.