Why Is My Sink Draining Slowly and How Much to Fix It?

A slow-draining sink might seem like a small inconvenience, but it’s often your plumbing’s way of saying, “something’s wrong.” Whether it’s in your kitchen or bathroom, slow drainage means water—and everything else—has hit a snag somewhere in your pipes. Fortunately, the problem is usually fixable and doesn’t have to turn into a major repair.

At Fix & Flow Plumbing Co., we help Atlanta homeowners find the source of slow drains every day. From soap and hair buildup to hidden sewer line issues, we’ve seen it all—and fixed it fast. Let’s break down what’s really happening in your pipes, what it costs to fix, and when to call a professional plumber.

Common Reasons Your Sink Is Draining Slowly

1. Hair and Soap Scum Buildup

In bathroom sinks, the most common cause of slow drainage is hair mixed with soap residue. Over time, it creates a sticky blockage that clings to pipe walls and narrows water flow. This buildup worsens gradually until the drain barely moves at all.

2. Grease, Oil, or Food Debris

Kitchen sinks deal with grease, oil, coffee grounds, and small bits of food that harden in the drain line. Even if you use a garbage disposal, grease can cool and stick to the pipes. Over time, that sticky coating traps more debris and slows drainage.

3. Mineral or Hard Water Deposits

Atlanta’s water can leave mineral deposits in pipes—especially older homes. These deposits narrow the inside of the drain line and cause slower water flow. Installing a water filtration system can help reduce buildup and extend the life of your plumbing.

4. Clogged P-Trap

The curved pipe under your sink, called the P-trap, prevents sewer gases from coming back up into your home. Unfortunately, it’s also a magnet for buildup. Food scraps, toothpaste, hair, and soap scum can collect there and cause slow drainage or unpleasant smells.

5. Venting Problems

Every plumbing system has vents that allow air to move through the pipes. If a vent is blocked (often by debris or nesting animals), it can cause slow draining and gurgling sounds. A professional plumbing inspection can identify venting issues before they cause backups.

6. Main Sewer Line Issues

If multiple drains in your home are slow, it may be a symptom of a main sewer line problem. Tree roots, collapsed pipes, or heavy buildup can restrict flow throughout your home. In this case, a sewer camera inspection is the best way to pinpoint the cause and determine if a repair or cleaning is needed.

DIY Steps to Try Before Calling a Plumber

1. Use Boiling Water and Dish Soap

Pouring boiling water mixed with dish soap down your drain can help break up grease and light buildup. Do this carefully and slowly—it’s a safe, quick first step.

2. Try a Natural Cleaner

Combine baking soda and vinegar to create a natural drain cleaner. Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. This can clear minor clogs without harming your pipes.

3. Use a Drain Snake or Plunger

A small handheld drain snake can remove hair or debris clogs close to the drain opening. Alternatively, use a sink plunger to create suction and push through light obstructions.

If none of these work, the problem likely lies deeper in your pipes—and that’s when it’s time to call the professionals at Fix & Flow.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Slow Drain?

For Atlanta homeowners, the cost of fixing a slow drain depends on the cause and severity of the clog:

• Minor clogs or cleanings: $100–$200
• P-trap or localized repairs: $150–$300
• Hydro jetting for severe buildup: $350–$600
• Sewer line or major blockages: $500–$1,500+

Our team at Fix & Flow always provides transparent, upfront pricing—no hidden fees, ever. We’ll evaluate the problem on-site and recommend the most cost-effective fix for your home.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

You should contact a licensed plumber if:

• Multiple drains in your home are draining slowly
• The slow drain is recurring even after DIY attempts
• You smell foul or sewer-like odors from your sink
• You hear gurgling or bubbling noises when water drains

These are signs that your issue may go beyond a simple clog. A professional inspection can reveal whether there’s a deeper issue with your sewer or vent system.

Preventing Slow Drains in the Future

• Never pour grease or oil down your sink.
• Use sink strainers to catch debris and hair.
• Flush drains monthly with hot water or a natural cleaner.
• Schedule an annual plumbing inspection to detect early buildup or blockages.

Proper maintenance helps you avoid costly emergencies and keeps your plumbing running smoothly year-round. The EPA WaterSense Program even notes that well-maintained plumbing systems can reduce household water waste by 10% or more.

Fix & Flow: Atlanta’s Trusted Drain Experts

As a locally owned plumbing company serving Intown Atlanta neighborhoods, Fix & Flow Plumbing Co. takes pride in delivering fast, honest, and reliable service. From sink and faucet repairs to full sewer and drain services, we’re your go-to team for all things plumbing.

We use state-of-the-art technology to diagnose issues accurately and complete repairs efficiently—without unnecessary upsells or surprises.

If your sink is draining slowly, don’t wait until it stops completely. Contact Fix & Flow Plumbing Co. today for expert diagnosis, upfront pricing, and lasting results.