How To Fix Slow Bathroom Sink Drain

A slow-draining bathroom sink is an annoyance that can quickly become an inconvenience. If your sink is taking longer than usual to empty, there are a few things you can try to fix the problem yourself before calling a plumber.

Here are a few tips for fixing a slow-draining bathroom sink:

1. Clear the Drain Stopper

The drain stopper is a common culprit of slow-draining sinks. If the stopper is clogged with hair, soap scum, or other debris, it can block the flow of water and cause the sink to drain slowly.

To clean the drain stopper, remove it from the sink and rinse it with hot water. Use a toothbrush or other small brush to scrub away any buildup. Once the stopper is clean, replace it in the sink and test the drainage.

2. Remove Hair from the Drain

Hair is another common cause of slow-draining sinks. Hair can accumulate in the drainpipe and form a clog. To remove hair from the drain, you can use a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner.

To use a drain snake, insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to feed the snake into the pipe. Once the snake reaches the clog, turn the handle in the opposite direction to pull the clog out of the pipe.

To use a chemical drain cleaner, follow the instructions on the product label. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when using a chemical drain cleaner.

3. Clean the P-Trap

The P-trap is a curved section of pipe that is located under the sink. The P-trap traps water to create a seal and prevent sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom. Over time, the P-trap can become clogged with sediment and debris, which can slow the drainage of the sink.

To clean the P-trap, place a bucket under the trap and loosen the nuts that hold the trap in place. Carefully remove the trap and empty the contents into the bucket. Use a brush or a rag to clean the inside of the trap and the pipes that connect to it. Once the trap is clean, reassemble it and tighten the nuts.

4. Inspect the Vent Pipe

The vent pipe is a pipe that extends from the drainpipe to the roof of the house. The vent pipe allows air to enter the drainpipe and helps to prevent the sink from draining slowly.

If the vent pipe is clogged, it can cause the sink to drain slowly. To inspect the vent pipe, look for any debris or blockages around the pipe. If you find any blockages, remove them and test the drainage of the sink.

5. Call a Plumber

If you have tried all of the above tips and your sink is still draining slowly, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action to fix it.