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Troubleshooting

Common Drain Problems: DIY Solutions & When to Call Pros

January 8, 2025
6 min read

Drain problems are among the most common plumbing issues Austin homeowners face. Learn which problems you can tackle yourself and when it's time to call our Master Plumbers for professional help.

Problem #1: Slow-Draining Sinks & Tubs

Common Causes

  • Hair and soap scum buildup in bathroom drains
  • Food particles and grease in kitchen sinks
  • Mineral deposits from Austin's hard water
  • Partial pipe blockages

DIY Solutions to Try First

  1. Remove visible hair and debris from drain
  2. Pour boiling water down the drain
  3. Use baking soda and vinegar (1/2 cup each)
  4. Try a drain snake or zip-it tool
  5. Use enzyme-based drain cleaner (avoid harsh chemicals)

Call Professionals When:

  • • DIY methods don't work after 2-3 attempts
  • • Multiple drains are slow simultaneously
  • • Water backs up into other fixtures
  • • You hear gurgling sounds from other drains
  • • Bad odors persist after cleaning

Problem #2: Complete Drain Blockages

Immediate Steps

  1. Stop using the affected fixture immediately
  2. Turn off water supply if possible
  3. Remove standing water with a bucket
  4. Try plunging (use correct plunger type)
  5. If unsuccessful, call for professional help

Austin-Specific Issues

  • • Tree roots in older Austin neighborhoods
  • • Clay pipe deterioration (pre-1980s homes)
  • • Hard water mineral buildup
  • • Foundation settling affecting pipe alignment

Problem #3: Kitchen Sink & Garbage Disposal Issues

Garbage Disposal Problems

Won't Turn On

Check reset button, circuit breaker, and power connection

Humming But Not Grinding

Likely jammed - turn off power and use allen wrench to manually turn

Leaking

Check connections - may need professional repair

Prevention Tips

Run cold water while using disposal
Avoid grease, bones, and fibrous foods
Clean regularly with ice cubes and rock salt
Use enzyme cleaners monthly

Problem #4: Persistent Drain Odors

Bad smells from drains can indicate various issues, from simple buildup to serious sewer problems.

Musty/Moldy Smell

Usually biofilm buildup. Clean with enzyme cleaner and ensure proper ventilation.

Rotten Egg Smell

Could be dry P-trap or sewer gas. Run water in unused drains regularly.

Sewage Smell

Serious issue - call professionals immediately. May indicate sewer line problems.

When Austin Emergency Plumbers Can Help

Our Master Plumbers have the tools and expertise to handle complex drain issues that DIY methods can't solve:

Professional Equipment

  • • Hydro-jetting for thorough cleaning
  • • Video camera inspection
  • • Professional-grade drain snakes
  • • Pipe locating equipment

Expert Services

  • • Root removal from sewer lines
  • • Pipe repair and replacement
  • • Grease trap cleaning
  • • Preventive maintenance programs

Emergency Drain Service

Available 24/7 for severe backups, multiple drain issues, or when DIY solutions fail. Our 60-minute response guarantee ensures fast relief from drain emergencies.

Prevention: Keep Your Austin Drains Flowing

Daily Habits

  • • Use drain screens to catch hair and debris
  • • Scrape plates before washing dishes
  • • Never pour grease down drains
  • • Run hot water after each use

Monthly Maintenance

  • • Flush drains with hot water
  • • Use enzyme-based cleaners
  • • Clean P-traps in unused drains
  • • Check for early warning signs

Drain Problems Getting Worse?

Don't let a simple drain issue become a major plumbing emergency. Our Master Plumbers provide fast, effective drain cleaning and repair services throughout Austin.

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