Sink, shower, and tub drains are designed to direct wastewater to your septic or sewer system. Over time, all sorts of grime can accumulate in the openings and internal components. Often, human behavior and factors beyond your control can result in the need for frequent drain cleaning. To avoid high water bills and pest problems caused by excess moisture, below are a few reasons for slow drains and what can be done to correct them. 

3 Common Causes of Slow Drains

1. Grease & Food Residue 

What you put down the kitchen sink can contribute to drainage problems. Cooking oil and grease hardens in the p-trap as it cools, narrowing the passage. Water can’t flow down drains at its normal speed and volume, leading to slow drainage.

To keep the channels clear, reuse the liquid or put it in bottles to dispose of in the trash. Pasta can turn into a sticky paste, while egg shells and coffee grounds can clump together in the drainpipe. To prevent blockages, also throw these items in the trash.

2. Hair Shedding

All the loose hair that comes out when applying shampoo and conditioner can get washed down shower and tub drains with the hot water. Clippings when shaving a beard or mustache can also end up stuck to the inside of bathroom sink drains. The damp strands can clump together inside pipes and drain lines, causing major blockages. Soap residue, minerals in water, and additional grime can stick to the matted hair, making the clogs worse.

Every time you use the fixtures, scoop out any hair collecting in the top of the drain. During routine drain cleaning, professionals can use augers and hydro-jetting equipment to remove additional debris deeper in the channels. 

3. Sewer Line Blockages

When wastewater flows down drains, it ends up in the sewer system, where it is sent on to a sewage treatment plant. Damage to sewer lines connected to the house, such as from invasive tree roots growing inside the channels, can create blockages. The wastewater backup will result in slow drainage.

To avoid this problem, don’t plant trees or shrubs over sewer equipment. Paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and additional non-biodegradable items can get trapped in sewer lines, so be mindful of what you flush down toilets. 

If water is draining slowly from your plumbing fixtures, the licensed master plumbers at H2O Specialists in Kerrville, TX, will get to the bottom of the issue. Since 1999, they have been providing effective, fast drain cleaning, plumbing repairs, and water treatment solutions to area residents. To ask questions and schedule drain cleaning or additional plumbing help, call (830) 895-7575. Look at their services online and like them on Facebook for suggestions on how to improve the quality of your drinking water.