The Seven Most Common Causes of Clogged Drains

clogged drain

Clogged drains are one of the most typical headaches for homeowners. It can be really frustrating when the water in the bathroom or kitchen doesn't flow properly. You want to stay away from them because they can lead to bacterial growth and an unpleasant odor. However, backed-up sewage, corrosion, and floods are some of the more serious issues that clogged drains can lead to. All of them could result in pricey repairs. There are, however, steps you may take to avoid a clogged drain. Knowing the most frequent causes of clogged drains is the first step in solving the problem.

Typical Reasons for Clogs

Although they can be a major inconvenience, clogged drains are also easily avoidable. You may prevent clogged drain problems by being cautious and paying attention to what goes down your drain. The following are the most frequent causes of clogged kitchen or bathroom drains:

  1. Hair. One of the primary factors for clogged drains is your hair. This is due to the fact that it frequently mixes with other gummy substances that go down your drain. It may then result in a clog, obstructing appropriate water drainage.
  2. Soap. The majority of soaps are created using fat or grease, did you know that? Soap scum is what happens when these substances react with the minerals in your water and build up around your drains and bathtub. This disgusting material may be a significant cause of clogged drains.
  3. Dirt. Even though you typically think of the bathroom as a place to wash away filth, allowing that debris to get into your pipes might eventually cause serious issues. Your pipes may develop clogs as a result of dirt building up in various places. You can be dealing with an even worse issue when they interact with any of the other reasons of clogged drains.
  4. Food. Small food particles that run down the drain might seriously clog it. Basically, food shouldn't be flushed down the toilet. Other compounds to stay away from are grease and oil. These factors frequently come together to form a significant obstruction.
  5. Little items or toys. Among the most imaginative playtimes for children might be during the bath. However, sometimes the tiny toys kids bring into the bath with them end up in the drain. The issue arises when they clog the pipes and create a back-up. Any little things that go down your drain could perhaps clog it. To get it fixed before it worsens, it is essential to call a reputable plumber.
  6. Tissue paper. Even though flushing it is among the safest things you can do, using too much might clog your system. Try to only use toilet paper for the intended purpose and in moderation. Do not flush toilet paper that has been used to remove makeup or clean up a spill; instead, throw it in the garbage.
  7. Abrasive water. Your pipes may become damaged by mineral accumulation, which also causes clogged drains. Test your water if you believe this may be a problem in your home. Some remedies for hard water might solve the issue your drains may have.

How to Avoid Clogged Drains

Finding a solution is simpler once you are informed of the most typical reasons of clogged drains. Your home may essentially be clog-free by doing everything from avoiding these pollutants from entering your pipes to doing the necessary maintenance and care.

  1. Catch hair before it gathers. You can use a range of solutions available on the market to catch hair before it goes down the drain. By regularly cleaning it, you can get rid of one of the main issues that cause clogged drains.
  2. Put an end to the soap. It is better for your pipelines if you avoid using soap due to the issues that most soaps produce when they are combined with water minerals. Call a plumber to pressure clean the pipes to eliminate any buildup in order to guarantee that soap won't clog your drains in the future.
  3. Discard the filth. Try shaking off excess dirt before cleaning it off of you or your clothes. This can assist in preventing clogs caused by too much dirt building up in your pipes.
  4. Compost. Put food in a compost bin close to your kitchen sink so it won't get flushed down the drain and clog it. Instead of letting the oil pour down the sink, use paper towels to absorb it and dispose of it in the compost bin.
  5. Take care with what you flush. Your toilet should only be used for flushing toilet paper and human excrement. You run the danger of blockages if you do anything else.
  6. Don't use drain cleaners. It might seem like the ideal solution—flush your pipes with some potent chemicals—to get rid of the clogs. Sadly, some substances are potent enough to create more issues than they do. The corrosive materials may begin to harm your pipes, joint sealing, and caulking, effectively increasing the cost of your repair bill. It is always better to call a licensed plumber for assistance in clearing a clogged drain.

For homes, clogged drains may be a huge hassle. You may avoid these issues and the pricey repairs they entail by being aware of the typical clog threats and taking steps to keep your drains clear.

When the water doesn't flow properly in your kitchen and bathroom, we know it can be frustrating. The likelihood of more significant issues like corrosion, floods, and sewage backup increases if your pipes are clogged. If you need help in unclogging pipes, call Order a Plumber at 631-234-0687 or send us a message.

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