What does a slow drain mean?

Slow drains are a fairly common problem in commercial and residential plumbing systems but that does not mean they should not be taken care of in a timely manner. While it may seem like a minor issue it can turn into a big problem. Most of the time drains of showers, bathtubs, and sinks will become slow if they are clogged with hair, food debris, or soap scum, but not taking care of this problem can lead to major plumbing issues that could end up causing extensive interior damage or broken water pipes. Many times these clogs can be easily resolved by using pliers or a plumbing snake to remove the items causing the clog, other times the clog may occur too far into the pipe system for these methods to be effective. So what can be done about slow drains and what problems can they cause?

Problems Caused by a Slow Drain

Other than being an inconvenience a slow drain can cause pipes to back up as the clog that is causing the delayed draining grows, eventually cutting off the drain and not allowing any water to flow away. This will cause standing water in the tub, shower, or sink and will likely require the help of a licensed plumber to remove the clog using hydro jet services or other techniques.

If a mainline becomes clogged due to a large amount of debris it can cause problems much more serious such as gurgling drains and bad smells. The worst-case scenario is the reverse flow of water, which could include wastewater containing sewage flowing backward. This backup of water can flood your home or business, causing smelly, extensive water damage!

Fixing Slow Drains

It is important to take slow drains very seriously. As soon as you notice a drain beginning to backup you can try using pliers, a clothes hanger or another tool to grab the clump of hair or other debris that is causing the issue by removing the drain screen. If you're unable to reach the clog contact a certified plumber right away to take care of the problem before it gets worse. They can use a variety of techniques to try and clear the drain, including replacing water or sewer lines if necessary. More than likely using hydro jet services or another tool to cut up the clog will clear up the issue!

At the first sign of a slow drain contact your local plumber to avoid backups that can cause water damage to the interior of your home or office. For expert drain clearing or drain repair in Kingwood contact the team at GAP Plumbing. We have a full range of plumbing services for commercial and residential properties, including remodeling plumbing and tankless water heaters. Give our friendly crew a call at (281) 645-5406 to request a quote for plumbing in Kingwood, Humble, or the neighboring areas.