5 Common Home Drain Issues

A properly functioning drainage system is key to a clean and comfortable home. When everything flows as it should, wastewater moves smoothly away, preventing odors, slow drains, and potential water damage.

But when problems arise, they can throw off your daily routine and lead to expensive repairs.

Some minor drain clogs can be tackled with essential tools and a little DIY effort. However, more severe problems require expert attention.

At Cassell, we specialize in drain repair in Columbia, SC, keeping your plumbing in top shape.

Here’s a look at the most common household drain problems, how to fix them with drain cleaning tips, and when to call the professionals.

1. Slow Draining Sink

A slow-draining sink is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. A buildup of soap scum, grease, food particles, or hair in the drain can cause it. Over time, these materials accumulate and restrict water flow, leading to standing water in your sink.

How to Repair a Kitchen Sink Drain

If you’re experiencing slow drainage in your kitchen sink, try these steps:

• Use boiling water: Pouring hot water down the drain can dissolve grease and soap scum buildup.
• Baking soda and vinegar: This natural solution can break down minor clogs when poured down the drain, followed by hot water.
• Plunger: A sink plunger can help dislodge debris stuck in the pipe.
• Plumber’s snake: A drain snake can help remove deeper blockages if the clog persists.

2. Slow Shower and Bathtub Drain

If your shower or bathtub drains slowly, the culprit is usually hair, soap residue, and mineral buildup. Over time, these materials create a blockage that restricts water flow.

How to Repair a Tub Drain

• Remove visible debris: Use a drain cover or hair catcher to prevent hair from entering the pipes.
• Plunger method: If water isn’t draining correctly, try plunging the tub to loosen the clog.
• Use a drain snake: If the blockage is deep in the pipe, a plumbing snake can help clear it.
• Regular cleaning: Pouring hot water mixed with vinegar down the drain monthly can help prevent buildup.

3. Smelly Drains

A smelly drain can be an unpleasant problem. It is often caused by trapped food particles, grease, or bacteria buildup in the pipes. If left untreated, these odors can spread throughout your home.

How to Fix a Smelly Drain

• Flush with baking soda and vinegar: This combination can break down debris and neutralize odors.
• Run hot water and dish soap: Dish soap and hot water can dissolve grease buildup.
• Clean the P-trap: The U-shaped pipe under your sink may collect debris that causes odors. Remove and clean it periodically.
• Use lemon peels or essential oils: A fresh citrus scent can help neutralize foul odors.

4. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be frustrating and may indicate clogged pipes, mineral buildup, or a plumbing leak. In some cases, a faulty pressure regulator may also be the cause.

Solutions for Low Water Pressure

• Clean faucet aerators: Sediment buildup in aerators can reduce water pressure. Unscrew the aerator and clean it with vinegar.
• Check for leaks: Inspect pipes for leaks that may be reducing water pressure.
• Flush your water heater: Sediment buildup in the water heater can lower water pressure in your home.
• Call a professional: If you’re experiencing persistent low water pressure, our team at Cassell can diagnose and resolve the issue.

5. Sewer Smell in the House

A sewer smell inside your home signifies a serious drainage issue. It could be caused by a dry P-trap, clogged vents, or a damaged sewer line.

What to Do About Sewer Odors

• Run water in unused drains: If a drain hasn’t been used in a while, the P-trap may dry out, allowing sewer gases to escape. Running water can refill the trap.
• Inspect vent pipes: If your plumbing vents are blocked, sewer gases can be forced into your home.
• Check for leaks: Cracks in sewer lines or damaged seals around toilets can let odors seep into your living space.

Drain Repair in Columbia, SC

When at-home remedies don’t resolve your common household drain issues, professional drain cleaning solutions are the best option. At Cassell, we provide reliable drain repair services in Columbia, SC, ensuring your home’s plumbing system functions efficiently.

Why Choose Cassell Brothers?

• Experienced technicians: Our team is trained to handle various drain issues.
• Advanced tools and technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment including Pipe Video Inspection to quickly diagnose and resolve drainage problems.
• Fast and efficient service: We understand the urgency of plumbing problems and provide prompt service. Cassell offers 24/7 Emergency Drain Cleaning in South Carolina.
• Preventative maintenance: Our drain cleaning services help prevent future clogs and expensive repairs.

If you’re experiencing drainage problems, don’t wait until they escalate. Schedule a drain repair service today with Cassel.