Why Water Is Leaking Your Sink (and How to Fix It)

The Bothersome Trickle of Water from Your Sink (and How to Swiftly Remedy It)

Who among us hasn't groaned at the sight of a slowly draining sink presented with water and grime, or worse, a gush of unwanted liquid that shimmies its way up and out of the drain? This is not just an annoyance, but it can also be a sign of a deeper issue. I recruited two experienced plumbers, Roy Barnes and Mark Collins, to share why water might be refusing to follow the downward path and what one should do when the situation arises.

Why is Water Escaping from the Sink Drain?

To understand the root cause of the issue, it’s beneficial to gather knowledge about home plumbing fundamentals. Roy Barnes, a plumber with over 30 years of experience and co-owner of Service Force Plumbing in Rockville, MD, offered the following insights:

“The plumbing system in your house functions as a venous system containing various smaller drains that join together and funnel into larger ones, culminating in the main sewer line or septic tank. By recognizing the basics, homeowners can better handle certain difficulties themselves.”

As a rule of thumb, if water only appears to be backing up in the washer in the bathroom, the most likely culprit is the washer itself. If the toilet is the culprit, the issue could be in the toilet's drain line instead. In the event that both the washer and toilet are plagued by a similar problem, the blockage may be located in the shared bathroom's drain pipe or beyond.

“It's crucial to identify where the water is building up the most,” Barnes advises. “If you have a toilet or shower in the basement, a clogged sink in a lower area of the house often indicates a problem in the main sewer line, which should be addressed promptly by a licensed plumber.”

What's the Cause of the Problem?

With water trickling back up the drain as a troublesome sign, one might wonder what could be causing this scenario. Mark Collins, a fifth-generation plumber and CEO of 1-800-Plumber+, shed some light on the matter:

“When water rises from the drain rather than flowing downstream, there's typically an obstruction or blockage hindering the water's movement in the plumbing. Fats, inappropriate substances, and debris, mixed with stringy hair, leave a trail of damage in their wake.”

Fats can slide down the drain after use, but they eventually harden and create a slippery coat inside the pipe, leading to blocked water flow. In addition, hair and biological material can collect inside the pipes, forming thick clots that further obstruct water.

However, things may not always be as simple as that. Collins mentioned that rising water from the drain can also be an indication of a larger issue with the plumbing system, such as a broken pipe, excessive root growth or a pipe damaged by soil movement or troublesome tree roots.

Thus, a professional with the appropriate licenses and equipment is required to inspect your plumbing system, determine whether further action is needed, and fix the problem at hand; using a camera to inspect the pipes is often necessary.

Addressing the Issue: What to Do When Water Threatens to Conquer Your Sink

Upon noticing the troublesome spectacle of water reversing its natural flow, it’s natural to want to put an end to it as quickly as possible to avert any further damage. However, Barnes emphasizes the importance of first identifying the problem's underlying cause:

“Tackling the issue without first understanding its root cause is merely a temporary solution. You might think the problem was the sink, toilet, or bathtub, but there could be leftover fats, damaged pipes, or even Legos in your drain. In order to resolve the issue permanently, you must address the source, whether that be fats, broken pipes, or leftover toys.”

Limit Your Water Usage

Collins stresses the importance of taking immediate action upon noticing a problem with your drains:

“As soon as you spot water jettisoning from your sink, cease all water-related activities in your home. All the drains in your house are interconnected, and you don't want to complicate the issue by using more water in an area where the drain hasn't been thoroughly examined.”

Attempt to Contain the Water

In the event that water begins to spill from your sink, do your best to control its flow until backup stops. If water sticks in the sink or bathtub, you might want to carefully scoop it out, especially if it smells suspect.

Collins cautions to be mindful when trying to forcibly guide water down the drain using your hands:

“Though it makes sense to try directing water toward the drain using your hands, beware of scalding water or other hazardous substances. It's best to play it safe and employ other methods to push water down the drain.”

Consider Enlisting Professional Help

Though your instinct might be to take matters into your own hands, both Roy Barnes and Mark Collins advise against attempting to execute certain tasks without professional intervention:

“A plunger is a great tool for clearing minor blockages,” Barnes notes, “but for more serious obstructions, you may need to hire a professional. Using incorrect plumbing techniques or improper tools can make matters even worse and lead to costly repairs down the line.”

Conclusion

The unwelcome sight of water appearing to dance its way up a sink drain is not just an eyesore, but may indicate a deeper issue that requires our attention. By heeding the wisdom of our experienced plumbing companions and recognizing the underlying cause of our woes, we can address the issue in the most effective and appropriate manner possible, ensuring that our homes remain a safe and welcoming haven.

Enrichment Data:

Several factors, including: 1. Clogged Drains: - Food Particles: Remnants of food can accumulate in pipes, eventually blocking the water flow. - Grease Buildup: The solidification of fats upon cooling creates a sticky layer, narrowing pipes and causing clogs. - Hair and Soap Scum: In bathroom sink drains, hair and soap residue can combine, forming dense plugs that hinder water flow.

1. Air in the Pipes: Air pockets within the plumbing system can result in uneven water flow, leading to sputtering or backflow into the sink.
2. Mineral Buildup: Hard water can contribute to mineral buildup in pipes, disrupting water flow and leading to clogs.
3. Foreign Objects: Objects, such as utensils or container lids, dropped into the drain can obstruct water flow and cause backflow.
4. Improper Waste Disposal: Unsuitable items like wet wipes, paper towels, or fibrous foods, when discarded down the drain, can result in clogs.

To resolve this issue, you can attempt the following: - Clearing Clogs: Utilize a plunger, drain snake, or natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar for minor blockages. - Attending to Air Issues: Run water through all faucets in the house to dislodge trapped air. - Preventing Future Clogs: Install sink strainers to catch food scraps and avoid disposing of grease and non-flushable items down the drain.