Why keep a log
Kitchen drains rarely fail without warning, but the warnings are easy to forget. Was the gurgle before or after the dishwasher ran? Did the slowdown start after a particular meal? Did the bathroom tub do anything strange at the same time?
A short written record answers those questions. It helps a plumber decide between clearing the trap, cabling the branch line or checking the main, and it shows whether a cleaning actually lasted.
Log template
| Date and time | What happened | What was running | Other drains affected? | What you did |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| e.g. left basin slow, pooled 2 inches | Faucet only | No | Cleaned strainer | |
| e.g. gray water rose during dishwasher drain | Dishwasher | No | Stopped dishwasher | |
| e.g. tub gurgled when sink drained | Faucet | Guest tub | Stopped water, called | |
Details worth noting
- Which basin is affected, or both
- Whether the disposal hums, runs normally or does nothing
- Smells: sour food or sewer
- Sounds: gurgling, glugging, bubbling in other drains
- Recent cooking with lots of grease, rice, pasta or peels
- Any product poured into the drain, with its name
- Dates of past plumber visits and what they did
Reading your log
- IfEntries show slow draining getting gradually worseThenGrease buildup is likely; plan a visit before it stops.
- IfTrouble mostly when the dishwasher runsThenThe shared drain is narrowing; see the dishwasher guide.
- IfOther drains appear in the logThenSuspect the main line and call promptly.
- IfThe problem returns within months of each cleaningThenAsk about jetting or a camera inspection.
Common questions
How long should I keep logging?
Until the problem is fixed, then keep the page. If the drain slows again months later, the old notes help show whether it is the same issue.
Do I need to log if the sink has fully stopped?
At that point, call. Jot down what happened and what you tried so you can tell the plumber quickly.
Should I include the dishwasher cycles?
Yes. Many kitchen backups show up during the dishwasher's drain cycle first.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.