Do your bathroom sinks drain slowly?  

This is often a combination of toothpaste, makeup and/or hair collecting in the drain assembly.  A slow draining sink is not only an aggravation it CAN also be a flood hazard especially in the summer.

It is common for HVAC systems to have a drain line connected to bathroom sink drains.  During the summer when the AC is running your air conditioner will generate a considerable amount of condensation which will drain into the pipes under the sink (this is usually a 1" white PVC pipe that comes out of the wall).

IF your sink drain clogs up this constant flow of water will fill the sink and eventually overflow onto the floor. Typically this happens when a family is away for a few days and not able to monitor the sinks. IF your sink is draining slow, it is very important that you clear the drain.  

This can be done in an assortment of ways, including;

** Physically removing the drain assembly and pysically cleaning out the pipes.

** Using a hair drain cleaner or sink snake to thread down into the drain and work loose any obstructions.  

** Vinegar, baking soda and boiling water can help clear a drain as well.  There are various tutorials to show how to do this. Bonus Pro Tip - don't get your face close to the drain when pouring in the vinegar.

** Hot Water - every time you brush your teeth run the hot water for a bit to help flush the drain and force loose most residue.

** Make up wipes - remove make up with wipes or wash clothes to minimize what is washed down the drain.

** Wipe accumulated toothpaste residue out of the sink instead of flushing it down the drain.

** Flush with hot water - after you are done with your routine, close the stopper on your sink and fill it up with hot water.  Then open the stopper and let the hot water do its trick.  Over time you should see the sink drain faster.

IF none of these solutions work AND your sink has an HVAC drain line attached to the drain assembly, then have a plumber or other trained professional assist in clearing the pipes.

We usually receive a call every few months from a family that has had a water event due to an unattended clogged sink.

Bonus Pro Tip - IF you sink is not draining and water is bubbling up from the drain, we recommend you turn off the AC completely so no more water will be generated.  Keep it turned off until you can get the drain cleared out.