6 Helpful Tips to Manage Slow Drains

Slow drains are one of the most frustrating household issues. Not only does your sink or tub fill up too quickly during use, but the slow draining process usually results in left-behind dirt and grime. While a simple drain clog might not be a huge concern on its own, a lingering problem could be the sign of a deeper issue. The plumbing experts here at Heiden Plumbing, Heating & Cooling are sharing tips you can use to help troubleshoot these slow drains—find them below. And if you still need assistance, call our expert sewer cleaning and jetting repair team to fix the root cause at 414-937-8420.

What Causes Slow Drains?

Slow drains can be caused by just about anything. In your bathroom, common culprits include hair and soap scum. In your kitchen, food and grease particles can be to blame. If your house has hard water, mineral buildup can create blockages, making it hard for water to pass through. Additionally, the occasional foreign object can make its way down your drain without your knowledge.

In more severe cases, your sewer system might be affected. For example, a tree root can grow into an underground pipe, leading to clogs and slow drains.

Use Our Slow-Drain Troubleshooting Tips

Try some of these tips to prevent or fix slow drains throughout your home.

1. Be Careful What You Put Down the Drain

Pay attention when you’re washing substances down the drain. Don’t dump grease or large food chunks down your kitchen sink. In your bathroom, stay away from body scrubs or washes with particles. If hair is a concern, install drain screens to prevent it from building up in your pipes.

2. Rinse Drains With Hot Water

Every so often, run extremely hot or boiling water down drains to prevent clogs. A harmless mixture of baking soda and vinegar can also be added to cleanse your pipes.

3. Have Your Water Checked for Minerals

Since hard water creates buildup, have your water mineral levels checked by a professional. Heiden can recommend solutions to help you remove excess minerals from your water.

4. Use a Plunger

While plungers are usually used to fix clogged toilets, they can be used to loosen blockages that cause slow drains as well.

5. Snake Your Drains

Purchase a drain snake at a hardware store and use it to help draw out any blockages in your sink. This is easier and more effective than using a chemical drain cleaner—and it’s better for your pipes.

6. Schedule a Sewer Drain Cleaning and Jetting

Sometimes, professional help is best. Count on Heiden Plumbing to perform a sewer drain cleaning and jetting. This is a safe, high-powered method of cleaning that removes dirt, grime, and other pipe buildup.

Clean Drains and Sewers With Heiden Plumbing

For a full range of plumbing, sewer repair, and maintenance services, rely on your Heiden Plumbing team for assistance. Call us to discuss your concerns at 414-937-8420 or contact us online.