How to Keep Your Kitchen Drain Flowing Smoothly: Advice from HEP Technicians

Plumbing | Chattanooga | Plumbing in Chattanooga

A homeowner in Chattanooga discovered her kitchen sink was draining so slowly that water pooled when she ran the dishwasher. Chemical cleaners and plunging didn’t help, so she reached out to HEP’s Plumbing in Chattanooga group for a lasting fix.

Our HEP technician found that a section of the two-inch branch line under the floor had developed a sag, trapping grease and food scraps. As part of our local Plumbing service, he replaced about ten feet of the misaligned pipe with a properly sloped segment and tied it in smoothly to the main stack. After a quick test, the sink drained freely, and the homeowner was thrilled.

All work was performed in Chattanooga.

New, securely fastened PVC drain line installed under a kitchen floor

Well-supported pipes stay level and avoid the dips that lead to clogs.

Below, you can see a neat installation in a nearby crawl space:

Encapsulated support post with fresh piping and vapor barrier

Sealing out moisture and lifting pipes off the ground helps prevent corrosion and mold.

Even pipes that look fine can benefit from a pro’s inspection:

Clean PVC pipe in good condition before further work

During routine checks, a HEP technician ensures joints are tight and no hidden wear is lurking.

Why Kitchen Clogs Happen

Grease and oil: Cooled fat adheres to pipe walls.
Food particles: Bits of peel, seeds or grounds settle in low spots.
Pipe sagging: Without the right support, debris gathers in bends.
Aging materials: Older pipes may roughen or corrode inside.

Easy Preventive Steps

Install a mesh strainer and clean it after every use.
Run hot water for 20–30 seconds once dishes are rinsed.
Monthly flush: Pour baking soda followed by vinegar, then hot water.
Quick inspections: Peek under the sink for loose clamps or small leaks.

When to Call a HEP Technician

If your sink still drains slowly or you hear unusual gurgles, it’s time for expert help. A HEP technician can pinpoint hard-to-see issues, from misaligned pipes to hidden buildup, restoring reliable flow with minimal fuss.

Key Takeaways

Simple habits go a long way in preventing clogs.
Proper pipe slope and support are crucial.
Regular professional inspections catch minor concerns before they escalate.
Rely on HEP’s Plumbing in Chattanooga experts to keep your home running smoothly.

Published on September 15, 2025