Clogged drain or main line? How to tell
One slow sink is a clog. Several at once is usually the main line.
Probably a single clog
- Only one sink, tub or toilet is slow.
- Other fixtures drain normally.
Probably the main line
- Several fixtures are slow at once.
- The toilet gurgles when you run the sink or washer.
- Water comes up in the tub or a floor drain.
- There's a sewer smell inside.
Main line problems need a plumber with a drain machine or jetter. Stop running water until they arrive.