View Full Version : Slow draining bathroom sink
appendix
Feb 7, 2009, 05:59 AM
Our bathroom sink drains slowly. I have used Drano Max Gel for several years, but now it does not work. What is required to have a fast draining bathroom sink?
Thanks
rwinterton
Feb 7, 2009, 06:55 AM
1. open pipes
2. proper venting
3. proper sloping
In many very old homes, the diameter of the pipe (cast iron pipes) is substantially smaller than it was when the pipe was new because of corrosion and build-up. I suspect that's your problem, but I don't know.
Drano can exacerbate the corrosion problem.
Sometimes you have situations where the vent is not properly installed or is plugged. This will slow down drainage.
Rarely (but it does happen), the drains are sloped improperly and water has to run uphill. That can be a big problem also.
appendix
Feb 7, 2009, 07:36 AM
1. open pipes
2. proper venting
3. proper sloping
In many very old homes, the diameter of the pipe (cast iron pipes) is substantially smaller than it was when the pipe was new because of corrosion and build-up. I suspect that's your problem, but I don't know.
Drano can exacerbate the corrosion problem.
Sometimes you have situations where the vent is not properly installed or is plugged. This will slow down drainage.
Rarely (but it does happen), the drains are sloped improperly and water has to run uphill. That can be a big problem also.
Thanks,
I will probably end up calling the plumber. We have lived in this house for over 40 years. Sound like some corrosion may be the problem.
speedball1
Feb 7, 2009, 07:40 AM
Rwinterton gave you sall the answers except one. The solution! You don't need a high priced plumber for a simple blockage. Read on!
The solution would be to remove the traps "J" bend and send a snake up into the wall,(see image). There's a bend ablout 8 inches in but once around that you only have to put out 6 more feet of snake. Flush with a bowl of hot water. Good luck and thank you for ratting my answer. Tom
appendix
Feb 7, 2009, 10:24 AM
Rwinterton gave you sall the answers except one. The solution!! You don't need a high priced plumber for a simple blockage. Read on!
The solution would be to remove the traps "J" bend and send a snake up into the wall,(see image). There's a bend ablout 8 inches in but once around that you only have to put out 6 more feet of snake. Flush with a bowl of hot water. Good luck and thank you for ratting my answer. Tom
Thanks, I'll check that out.