Drainage problems are frustrating, but they’re a part of owning a home. Whether it’s a clogged sink, a slow-draining shower, or standing water in your yard, these issues can mess with your day.
The good news is, that most drainage problems can be solved quickly if you know what to do. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top five drainage problems you might face and how you can fix them. Let’s get started!
1. Clogged Sinks
A clogged sink is one of the most common drainage problems. You might notice water backing up or draining very slowly. This usually happens because grease, food scraps, or hair have built up inside the pipes.
How to Fix It
First, don’t panic! Start with a simple plunger. Fill the sink with a little water (enough to cover the plunger) and give it a few strong pushes. If this doesn’t work, try removing the drain stopper and cleaning out any visible gunk.
Still clogged? Mix baking soda and vinegar and pour it down the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with boiling water. A drain snake (a long flexible tool) can help remove debris for stubborn clogs.
ICalla plumber to tackle the problem fif all else fails
2. Slow Draining Showers and Tubs
Have you ever stood in a shower that slowly turned into a bath? Gross, right? Slow-draining tubs and showers are caused by hair, soap scum, and dirt building up in the drain.
How to Fix It
Start by removing the drain cover. You can use a bent wire or a drain snake to fish out the hair and gunk blocking the water. Wear gloves—it’s a messy job, but it works!
After you’ve cleared the drain, pour hot water mixed with a bit of dish soap down to break up any leftover residue. To prevent this problem in the future, use a drain cover to catch hair and clean it regularly.
3. Standing Water in Your Yard
Do you have puddles in your yard after it rains? This could be a sign of poor drainage, compacted soil, or a blocked outdoor drain. Standing water isn’t just annoying—it can damage your grass and attract mosquitoes.
How to Fix It
First, check for obvious blockages in your outdoor drains or gutters. Leaves and debris can clog them, so clean them out if necessary.
If the problem is compacted soil, aerating your lawn can help water absorb into the ground more easily. You can do this by poking holes in the soil using a garden fork or renting an aerator.
For larger drainage issues, consider installing a French drain or a dry creek bed. These solutions direct water away from problem areas in your yard. If you’re unsure how to do this, a landscaping professional can help.
4. Overflowing Gutters
When your gutters overflow, water can spill onto your walls, damage your foundation, and create drainage problems. This usually happens because your gutters are clogged with leaves and debris.
How to Fix It
Grab a ladder (and a buddy for safety!) and clean out your gutters. Use a trowel or your hands to scoop out debris, then rinse the gutters with a hose to clear out any small bits.
If your gutters still overflow after cleaning, they might be too small for the amount of water your roof collects. Upgrading to larger gutters or adding extra downspouts can solve the problem. Also, check that your gutters are properly sloped so water flows toward the downspouts.
To prevent this in the future, install gutter guards to keep leaves out. Regularly cleaning your gutters, especially in the fall, will also help.
5. Sewer Line Backups
A sewer line backup is a homeowner’s nightmare. It’s messy, it’s smelly, and it can cause major damage. You might notice multiple drains in your house backing up at once, gurgling noises, or foul odors coming from your drains.
How to Fix It
If you suspect a sewer line backup, call a plumber right away. This isn’t a DIY fix, as it often involves specialized tools like sewer cameras or high-pressure jetting equipment.
In the meantime, stop using water in your house to prevent further backups. Avoid flushing toilets, running dishwashers, or using washing machines.
To prevent this problem in the future, avoid flushing things like wet wipes, grease, or feminine products down your drains. Tree roots can also invade sewer lines, so regular inspections by a plumber can catch these problems early.
Tips to Keep Your Drains in Top Shape
Here are a few extra tips to prevent drainage problems before they start:
- Use drain covers in your sinks, tubs, and showers to catch hair and debris.
- Avoid pouring grease or oil down your kitchen sink—it hardens and clogs pipes.
- Flush drains regularly with hot water and dish soap to break up buildup.
- Clean your gutters at least twice a year to prevent clogs and overflows.
- Have your plumbing inspected annually by a professional, especially if your home is older.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, a drainage problem is too big to fix on your own. Don’t be afraid to call a plumber if:
- You’ve tried DIY methods, but the issue persists.
- You notice water damage, mold, or foul smells.
- Your drains are slow throughout your entire house.
Professionals have the tools and expertise to solve even the toughest drainage problems, saving you time and stress.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with drainage problems isn’t fun, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can solve most issues quickly. Whether it’s a clogged sink or standing water in your yard, knowing what to do can save you from bigger headaches down the road.
Remember, if the problem feels too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to call for help. Experts like Louw Bros are just a phone call away and can make sure your drains are working perfectly in no time. Take care of your home, and it’ll take care of you!
Contact us today to start!
