Slow drain only in kitchen sink

Kitchen sink draining slowly while other sinks work normally

Quick Answer:

If only your kitchen sink is draining slowly, the problem is most likely local to that fixture: a clog in the strainer, the trap, the disposal, or grease build-up in the kitchen trap or pipe. Start by comparing how fast water runs in other sinks, then clear the strainer and P-trap before trying stronger fixes.

Why This Happens

  • Kitchen sinks get food, grease, and soap scum that bathroom sinks usually don’t. Grease and food scraps cling to the pipe walls and slow flow.
  • Garbage disposals can jam or pack matter into the trap and pipe, restricting flow.
  • A clog can form right under the sink (strainer or P-trap) rather than in the house’s main drain, so other drains stay fine.
  • Temperature changes can affect grease: warm water may move grease differently than cold water, producing a specific symptom.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Compare other drains

Run a similar amount of water in a bathroom sink (or a second kitchen sink if you have one). Note whether those drains clear quickly. This comparison helps confirm the issue is isolated to the kitchen drain rather than a house-wide main line problem.

2. Clear the strainer and run hot water

  • Remove the sink strainer or stopper and clear out visible food or debris.
  • Run hot tap water for a minute to see if it improves flow. If you suspect grease, flushing with hot water can help loosen soft deposits — but do not rely on hot water alone for hardened grease. For more on grease-related issues, read about Grease clogging kitchen drain.

3. Use a plunger

  • Plug the overflow (if present) with a wet cloth or use a sink plunger for the basin. Make sure the other basin is filled with some water to seal if you have a double sink.
  • Plunge firmly several times, then run water to check results.

4. Inspect and clean the P-trap

  • Place a bucket under the trap, loosen the slip nuts, and remove the trap. Clean out food, grease, and buildup.
  • Reassemble and test the drain. This often clears the most common local clogs.

5. Check the garbage disposal

  • If you have a disposal, make sure it’s running freely. Turn it off at the switch and, if needed, use the manual crank under the unit (or follow the manufacturer’s instructions) to free jams. Never put your hand inside a disposal.

6. Try a drain snake or auger

  • If the trap is clear but the sink is still slow, feed a manual drain snake into the sink tailpiece and rotate to dislodge deeper clogs. Work gently to avoid damaging pipes.
  • If the slow flow appears only with hot water or changes with temperature, consider the scenario covered in Slow drain only when hot water used.

7. When simple fixes don’t work

  • If the clog is past the trap or the drain remains weak after cleaning and snaking, it may be deeper in the building drain and require professional equipment.

What Not to Do

  • Do not assume the issue affects all drains. Check other sinks first to confirm whether the problem is local.
  • Do not pour large volumes of chemical drain cleaner into the sink. These products can damage pipes and create hazardous conditions if they fail to clear the clog.
  • Do not stick your hand down into the disposal or drain opening. Turn off power to the disposal before attempting any manual intervention.

When to Call a Professional

  • The sink is still slow after cleaning the strainer, P-trap, and using a snake.
  • Water backs up into other fixtures or multiple drains are slow—this suggests a main line issue.
  • You smell persistent sewage odors, or there is repeated clogging in a short period.
  • There are signs of a leak, corrosion, or damaged piping when you inspect under the sink.

Safety Notes

  • Turn off power to the garbage disposal before working on it.
  • Use gloves and eye protection when cleaning traps or using tools.
  • Avoid mixing chemicals. If a chemical cleaner was used, ventilate the area and follow the product instructions for neutralizing or removing residue before attempting manual work.
  • If you are unsure about how to use a tool or disconnect plumbing, call a licensed plumber.

Common Homeowner Questions

  • Q: Can I fix this without a plumber? A: Often yes—clear the strainer, clean the P-trap, and use a plunger or hand snake first.
  • Q: Are chemical drain cleaners okay to use? A: No—avoid them for regular use; they can harm pipes and create dangerous reactions.
  • Q: How quickly should I act? A: Start with simple checks today; call a pro if the problem doesn’t improve after basic cleaning and snaking.

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