What To Do About a Slow-Draining Bathtub
Few things are as frustrating as standing in ankle-deep water while you shower because your bathtub won’t drain properly. A slow-draining tub can be caused by a variety of issues, but the good news is that there are several ways to fix it.
At Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we offer expert drain and sewer services to keep your plumbing running smoothly and your bathtub draining as it should. But before you call a plumber, let’s dive into what might be causing a slow-draining bathtub and what you can do to resolve it.
Common Causes of Slow-Draining Bathtubs
A slow-draining bathtub can often be traced back to everyday buildup in your pipes. Sometimes, a professional drain and sewer inspection may be necessary to get to the root of the issue. The most common culprits blocking bathtub drains tend to be:
- Hair
- Oil and grease
- Soap scum
- Limescale
- Dirt and debris
- Foreign objects
Methods You Can Try To Drain Your Bathtub
For minor clogs and blockages, you don’t always need to call a plumbing technician. You can try these simple yet effective methods to clear your bathtub drain:
- Baking soda and vinegar: Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for 15-20 minutes, then flush it with hot water.
- Plunger: Place the plunger over the drain and ensure enough water is in the tub to cover the plunger’s base. Use firm, even pressure to create suction and dislodge the clog.
- Drain snake: Insert a drain snake or plumbing auger into the drain and twist it to break up the clog. This method works well for tougher blockages caused by hair or debris.
- Boiling water: Carefully pour boiling water down the drain to help dissolve soap scum, grease, and other residues that may be slowing the water’s flow.
While these fixes often work for minor clogs, more stubborn blockages may require additional help.
When You Should Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried these methods and your bathtub is still draining slowly, it may be time to call a plumber. Persistent clogs, signs of leaks, and pipe damage often point to more serious problems that require professional tools and expertise.
Lancaster Plumbing & Heating provides professional drain cleaning and sewer repair services to tackle even the toughest plumbing issues. Whether you’re dealing with hidden pipe damage or a blockage too stubborn for do-it-yourself methods, we’re here to help.
Call Lancaster Plumbing & Heating for Drain-Clearing Services
You don’t have to live with a slow-draining bathtub. At Lancaster Plumbing & Heating, we’ve been helping Pennsylvania homeowners keep their plumbing in top condition since 1904.
As a family-owned and -operated business, we offer upfront pricing, no overtime charges, and background-checked technicians to give you peace of mind. Reach out to our team for professional drain-cleaning services to clear the most stubborn bathtub clogs.
Don’t go another day with a slow-draining tub. Contact us today to schedule drain cleaning services in Pennsylvania.
