When the water in your sink or basin refuses to go down, it can be pretty frustrating. The water just sits there taking its sweet time draining! What may seem like a minor issue has the potential to become a major one if the problem is not attended to quickly.
There are a number of common causes as to why your sink or basin is slow to drain. Here are 6 reasons why your sink or basin is blocked and tips on what you can do to fix the problem.
Common reasons for why your sink or basin is blocked
Hair – most often the cause for blockage in your sink or basin. When hair mixes in with grime and other sticky stuff, a clog forms. To remove the hair from the drain, use a hook or even a wire coat hanger to pull out the hairballs. To minimise build up of hair, use a drain hair catcher.
Soap – the type of soap you use can block drains. Did you know soap bars are made of fats, oils and lye (sodium hydroxide)? Soap mixed with minerals in water leaves soap scum which clogs up your sink. Switch from soap to a soap free alternative instead to prevent your sink from being blocked.
Dirt – when dirt on your hands or clothes are washed off in the sink, build up can occur. When combined with hair, soap and grime, it blocks your sink. Wash off dirt outside before you enter the house instead of using your sink.
Mineral buildup – depending on where you live, hard water and build up of minerals can cause blockage in your drain. To prevent this from happening, install a water softener for your home. Otherwise, you’ll have to call in a professional plumber to descale the pipe.
Small objects – random small objects such as earrings can make their way down the sink. When this happens, it can clog up your drain. Call an emergency plumber to locate it and remove it so your drain is cleared again.
Tree roots – the growth of tree root in your pipes is a culprit of blocked sinks. Tree roots can grow in the smallest of cracks. If they keep growing larger, this will cause significant blockage and pipe damage. This is a complex job so an emergency plumber is required for the job. It’ll include clearing the tree root and using pressure jet cleaning in order to clear the pipes.
How Do I Unblock My Sink or Basin?
It is best to nip it in the bud early to prevent a blocked sink or basin from turning into a major headache. If you believe your sink or basin is blocked is due to the above 6 reasons, try the simple solutions to resolve the issue. If the problem continues, call a licensed plumber out to take a look.
For help unblocking your sink or basin, OP Plumbing Services is only a call away. Servicing the Sutherland Shire, St George Basin, Wollongong and Greater Sydney, we have the skills and experience to clear the drains in your sink or basin. Call 0417 299 820 or contact us for immediate assistance.