Tackling Slow Drains: Common Causes & DIY Fixes 

slow drains-plumbing drain cleaning

Hello, neighbors in Lubbock, TX and the surrounding areas. I am here to proudly share valuable, expert tips from Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric. We have been family owned and operated since 1934, building our strong reputation on integrity, innovation, customer satisfaction, commitment, and relationship-building. Today, I want to talk about slow drains and share easy tips for drain cleaning.

Slow drains happen when water does not move through pipes fast enough. You might see water lingering in your sink or tub. This is often caused by things like grease, soap scum, or hair that stick to the sides of pipes. Hard water can also leave mineral deposits, which make the opening smaller. Over time, these clogs form and stop water from flowing quickly.

Why Slow Drains Can Happen

Most slow drains start with buildup in the pipes. Kitchen drains get clogged by grease and food scraps. Bathroom drains can fill with hair and soap residue. In Lubbock, TX, hard water deposits can add to this problem. Even small objects can fall down the drain by accident, adding to the blockage.

Common Causes

  1. Grease and Food: Pouring oil or food scraps down the drain leads to sticky clogs.
  2. Hair and Soap: Strands of hair mix with soap scum, creating tough layers.
  3. Mineral Deposits: Hard water leaves chalky buildup, slowing flow.
  4. Foreign Objects: Tiny items can get stuck and block pipes.

DIY Fixes for Slow Drains

  1. Boiling Water: Carefully pour a pot of hot water down the drain to melt grease or wash away soap scum.
  2. Baking Soda and Vinegar: Put half a cup of baking soda, then half a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes. Rinse with hot water.
  3. Plunger: Cover the drain with a plunger, add water to form a seal, then push and pull to loosen the clog.
  4. Drain Snake: Slide it in until you feel a clog, twist gently, then pull out the trapped material.
  5. Clean the P-trap: Place a bucket under the sink, remove the curved pipe, and clear away any gunk.

Drain Cleaning in Lubbock, TX

If these ideas do not work, you may have a deeper issue like a main line blockage. That is when you should call Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric for professional drain cleaning. Our team has the right tools to find and fix stubborn clogs. We are here to help keep your home comfortable and safe.

Slow drains can be a bother, but simple steps often clear them up. By watching what goes down your drains and taking action when water slows, you can prevent bigger problems. If you need expert help, our family at Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric is ready to serve you. With our long history and strong values, you can trust us to treat your home with care.

Remember, slow drains do not have to ruin your day. A little bit of drain cleaning can go a long way toward keeping water flowing. We hope these tips help you tackle clogs and keep your plumbing in good shape. If you have any questions, reach out to us. We want your home to run at its best, and we are here whenever you need us.

Thank you for reading. Always remember that our team at Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric is ready to assist with all your drain cleaning needs and other plumbing problems.