Do you have a slow drain in your home that’s been draining your patience? Are you wondering what’s taking so long for the water to disappear down the drain in your kitchen sink?

Let’s take a look at some of the reasons for a slow drain, and how you can fix it.

READ MORE: All-Natural Drain and Bathroom Cleaner Recipes

5 Reasons Your Drains Could Be Slow

  1. Hair, soap scum, and debris: One of the primary culprits behind slow drains is the accumulation of hair, soap scum, and debris. Over time, these substances can build up in the pipes, creating a sticky concoction that restricts water flow. To tackle this issue, invest in a drain strainer to catch hair and other particles before they have a chance to journey down the drain. Regularly cleaning the strainer can significantly reduce the likelihood of clogs.
  2. Grease buildup: Grease may seem harmless when warm and liquid, but as it cools, it solidifies and can adhere to the pipe walls, causing a blockage. To prevent this, avoid pouring cooking oil or grease down the sink. Instead, collect it in a container that’s resistant to heat and toss it in the trash. In addition to grease, there are several other types of food that should never go down your drain! Read on to learn more.
  3. Tree roots: If you have gardens or trees on your property, invasive tree roots can be a hidden nemesis. These roots have a knack for finding their way into pipes through cracks or joints, leading to blockages and slow drains. If you suspect tree roots are causing the issue, call a professional plumber who can use specialized equipment to diagnose and resolve the problem.
  4. Aging pipes: Over time, pipes can deteriorate due to corrosion, rust, or mineral buildup. Older homes may have pipes that have seen better days. If your drains are consistently slow and your plumbing system is aging, it might be worth considering a professional inspection. Upgrading to modern, corrosion-resistant pipes can enhance water flow and prevent future issues.
  5. Foreign objects: It’s all too easy to drop children's toys, jewelry, and other small items down the drain! These foreign objects can cause significant obstructions, leading to slow drains or even complete blockages. If you suspect there is an object stuck in the drain that’s making the drain slow, it's crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.

Consider Getting Some Bio-Ben

Bio-Ben is the most advanced microbial drain, septic, and grease trap treatment. It is comprised of naturally occurring strains of live, vegetative bacterial cultures with an appetite for organic matter.

Bio-Ben’s special features include:

  • Fast Acting: Bio-Ben begins working immediately when introduced in a drain line or collection system. These friendly bacterial cultures do not require a wake-up period as with other microbial products.
  • Ease: Bio-Ben is easy to use and simple to pour and go. No pre-mixing, the convenient drain back bottle cap measurer is used to add the correct amount of treatment to the drain line or collection system.
  • Value: Bio-Ben requires one-half capful per treatment. One-half capful has more activity than five capfuls of other bio-products.
  • Eliminates Emergency Callbacks: Bio-Ben continues to work long after the service call. The bacteria continue to feed on the organic residue left in the drain line, grease trap, and septic tank long after the plumber leaves.

Call your local Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today to pick up some Bio-Ben for your home.

Remember, a little preventive care goes a long way in ensuring your water flows freely and your pipes stay happy. If you’re dealing with a slow drain, and feeling drained by what to do next, give us a call today at 1-877-BEN-1776 or contact us online. We are here to help!