Bathroom Sink Not Draining But Pipes Clear

A clogged bathroom sink is a common plumbing issue that can be frustrating to deal with. When your sink is not draining properly, it can be difficult to wash your hands, brush your teeth, or shave. In most cases, a clogged sink is caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, and other debris in the drainpipe. However, there are times when the pipes are clear but the sink is still not draining properly. If you are experiencing this issue, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

First, check the stopper. The stopper is a small device that is located in the drain hole of the sink. It is designed to prevent water from draining out of the sink when it is not in use. If the stopper is closed, it will prevent water from draining out of the sink, even if the pipes are clear. To check the stopper, simply remove it from the drain hole and see if water starts to drain out of the sink. If the water starts to drain, then the stopper was the problem. If the water does not start to drain, then the problem is somewhere else in the drainpipe.

If the stopper is not the problem, then the next step is to check the p-trap. The p-trap is a U-shaped pipe that is located under the sink. It is designed to trap water in order to prevent sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom. If the p-trap is clogged, it will prevent water from draining out of the sink. To check the p-trap, simply remove it from the sink and see if water starts to drain out. If the water starts to drain, then the p-trap was the problem. If the water does not start to drain, then the problem is somewhere else in the drainpipe.

If the stopper and the p-trap are not the problem, then the next step is to check the drainpipe itself. The drainpipe is the pipe that carries water from the sink to the sewer. If the drainpipe is clogged, it will prevent water from draining out of the sink. To check the drainpipe, you can use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible wire that can be inserted into the drainpipe to clear out any clogs. If you do not have a drain snake, you can try pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will react to create a fizzing action that can help to clear out any clogs.

If you have tried all of the above troubleshooting tips and your sink is still not draining properly, then you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Here are some additional tips to help prevent your bathroom sink from clogging:

Install a drain strainer. A drain strainer is a small device that fits over the drain hole in the sink. It is designed to catch hair and other debris before it can enter the drainpipe.
Clean your drain regularly. You can clean your drain by pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will react to create a fizzing action that can help to clear out any clogs.
Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. Grease and oil can solidify and clog the drainpipe.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your bathroom sink from clogging and keep it draining properly.