Sitting with a sink full of dirty dishes and waiting for the water to drain can be frustrating. When drainage becomes an issue in multiple basins in your home, there could be a more extensive problem with the wastewater system. Thankfully, you can prevent stubborn clogs from causing serious issues by scheduling professional pumping services. Here are some common reasons to call for help when your sinks and tubs drain slowly.

Why Your Sinks Are Draining Slowly

1. Sludge Buildup in Drainpipes

Sediment from soap scum, hair, food particles, and grease can get pushed into the network of pipes that lead to the main sewer line. In older properties built through the 1970s, limescale used during home construction may cause drainage problems, particularly in homes with hard water. 

Use strainers to prevent clogs. These relatively affordable devices fit in the drains and trap food and dirt particles before entering the pipe system. Running hot water down the sink can also help prevent sludge buildup. When drains slow from buildup, a drain line cleaning session from a pumping service can typically solve the problem.

2. Blocked Airflow in Vent Pipes

As part of your plumbing system, the vent pipe — also called a vent stack or plumbing air vent — works alongside your drainpipes. However, instead of carrying water, it regulates the air in the system to ensure waste and water flow through the tubes that drain out of your house. 

The vent stack can potentially be clogged by snow, animal nests, leaves, and other obstacles. These obstructions can be safely removed by hand or flushed out with a hose. Professionals will use an auger or snake to dislodge the dirt in tough clogs. 

3. Faulty Septic System

Drainpipes move the wastewater from your home into the main sewer line, which takes it into the septic tank. Anything you put down the drains eventually ends up in this system. When the septic tank is overloaded, it may cause water to drain slowly throughout the house. Severe issues may even cause sewage to flow back into your home.

Scheduling regular pumping services will ensure the tank stays empty and can efficiently treat your wastewater. Also, pay attention to the drain field. You shouldn't park heavy vehicles or build structures on top of this area, as this could compact the soil and prevent proper drainage. 

If your drains are slow, call the experts at Around The Clock Pumping. For over a decade, they've served homes throughout Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula, and Mat-Su Borough, AK, offering customers efficient drain cleaning and pumping services. These septic tank specialists are on-call 24 hours a day to provide prompt service at affordable prices because they know the importance of a well-functioning septic system. Visit their website for more information on their services, or call (907) 345-9126 to schedule a sewer line cleaning appointment today.