Fix a Slow Drain

How to Fix a Slow Drain: Quick & Effective Solutions

A slow drain is a common plumbing issue that can quickly become a nuisance. Whether it’s a sluggish sink, bathtub, or shower drain, a blockage can lead to standing water, unpleasant odors, and even plumbing damage if left untreated. The good news? You can often fix a slow drain with simple, do-it-yourself solutions before calling in a professional.

If you’ve tried everything and your drain is still slow, JT Plumbing is the trusted choice for drain cleaning in Fort Collins, CO, and the surrounding areas. Our experts can clear even the toughest clogs quickly and affordably.

CALL NOW (970) 818-1613

Common Causes of a Slow Drain

Before jumping into solutions, it helps to understand what causes slow drainage. Some of the most common culprits include:

🔹 Hair & Soap Scum – A frequent cause of bathroom sink and shower clogs.
🔹 Grease & Food Particles – A major problem for kitchen drains.
🔹 Mineral Buildup – Hard water can cause calcium and mineral deposits to accumulate in pipes.
🔹 Foreign Objects – Items like cotton swabs, wipes, or small toys can cause major blockages.
🔹 Tree Roots – In older plumbing systems, tree roots can invade sewer lines and restrict water flow.

Now that you know what might be causing your slow drain, let’s explore some easy DIY solutions to fix it!

6 Easy Ways to Fix a Slow Drain

1. Flush with Hot Water

One of the quickest ways to clear minor clogs is by flushing the drain with hot water. This is especially effective for grease or soap buildup.

How to Do It:

1. Boil a pot of water.
2. Slowly pour it down the drain in stages.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes, then run hot tap water.

🔹 Best for: Kitchen sinks clogged with grease or soap residue.

2. Use Baking Soda & Vinegar

This natural solution is a great way to break down clogs without using harsh chemicals.

How to Do It:

1. Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain.
2. Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar.
3. Let it fizz and sit for 15-30 minutes.
4. Flush the drain with hot water.

🔹 Why it Works: The fizzing reaction helps break up organic material and buildup.

3. Try a Plunger

A plunger isn’t just for toilets—it can also help unclog slow drains!

How to Do It:

1. Fill the sink or tub with a few inches of water to create suction.
2. Position the plunger over the drain and press down firmly.
3. Pump up and down for about 20-30 seconds.
4. Remove the plunger and test the drain.

🔹 Best for: Bathroom and kitchen sinks with minor blockages.

4. Remove Hair & Debris with a Drain Cleaning Tool

Hair and soap scum buildup are major culprits in slow bathroom drains. A Zip-It tool or a straightened wire hanger can pull out trapped debris.

How to Do It:

1. Insert the drain cleaning tool or wire into the drain.
2. Wiggle it around and pull out hair and gunk.
3. Dispose of the debris and run hot water.

🔹 Best for: Showers and bathroom sinks that drain slowly due to hair buildup.

5. Clean the P-Trap

The P-trap (the U-shaped pipe under your sink) can collect debris, causing slow drainage.

How to Do It:

1. Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch any water.
2. Loosen the nuts and remove the P-trap.
3. Clean out any debris and rinse it with warm water.
4. Reattach the P-trap and run water to check the flow.

🔹 Best for: Kitchen and bathroom sinks with recurring slow drainage.

6. Use a Drain Snake for Tough Clogs

A drain snake (or auger) is great for clearing stubborn or deep clogs that other methods can’t reach.

How to Do It:

1. Insert the drain snake into the drain opening.
2. Turn the handle while pushing forward.
3. Pull out any debris and flush with hot water.

🔹 Best for: Severe or deep clogs in any drain.

When to Call a Professional for Drain Cleaning

If you’ve tried these DIY fixes and your drain is still slow, it might be time to call a professional. Here are some signs that you need expert drain cleaning:

✅ Multiple slow drains throughout the house
✅ Foul odors coming from the drain
✅ Water backing up in sinks or tubs
✅ Recurring clogs despite DIY fixes

Ignoring a slow drain can lead to bigger plumbing issues, such as pipe damage or even sewer backups.

Call JT Plumbing for Professional Drain Cleaning in Fort Collins, CO!

If your drain isn’t clearing up with DIY methods, JT Plumbing is here to help! Our expert plumbers use advanced drain cleaning techniques to remove tough clogs safely and effectively.

Why Choose JT Plumbing?

✔ Fast & Reliable Service
✔ Affordable Pricing
✔ Safe & Effective Drain Cleaning

Don’t let a slow drain turn into a bigger problem! Contact JT Plumbing today for expert drain cleaning in Fort Collins, CO, and get your plumbing back to normal. 🚰

CALL NOW (970) 818-1613