Have you ever had to deal with a clogged drain? If so, you know how frustrating and inconvenient it can be. Clogged drains can cause slow drainage, bad odors, and even water damage.
Fortunately, many clogged drains can be prevented by understanding the common causes and taking preventative measures. Some of the top reasons include the following:
Hair
Hair is one of the most common causes of clogged drains. When you shower or brush your hair, it falls out and can easily get caught in the drain. Over time, the hair builds up, creating a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely.
To prevent hair from causing a clog, use a drain cover to catch any hair before it goes down the drain. You can also clean the drain periodically using a snake or drain cleaner.
Grease and Oil
Grease and oil may seem harmless when washing dishes or cooking, but they can cause significant damage to your drains. When hot grease and oil are poured down the drain, they solidify as they cool and create blockages in your pipes. This can cause slow drainage and even complete blockages.
To prevent grease and oil from clogging your drains, never pour them down the drain. Instead, collect the grease and oil in a container and dispose of it in the trash. You can also use a drain strainer to catch any food particles that may contain grease or oil.
Food Waste
Food waste is another common cause of clogged drains. Even small particles of food that are washed down the drain can accumulate over time and create a blockage. This is especially true for starchy or fibrous foods like pasta, rice, and celery.
To prevent food waste from clogging your drains, use a garbage disposal. However, not all food waste can go down the disposal. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods down the disposal, and always run water when using it.
Soap Scum
Soap scum is a buildup of soap residue and minerals that can accumulate in your drains over time. This can cause slow drainage and even complete blockages.
To prevent soap scum from clogging your drains, clean them regularly with a drain cleaner or snake. You can also prevent soap scum buildup by using liquid soap instead of bar soap, which tends to leave more residue.
Foreign Objects
Foreign objects are any objects that are not meant to go down the drain. This can include toys, jewelry, and even dental floss. These objects can accumulate in your drain and cause blockages.
To prevent foreign objects from clogging your drains, be mindful of what you put down the drain. Keep small things away from the drain and dispose of them in the trash. If an object does get stuck in the drain, use a snake to remove it.
Mineral Buildup
Mineral buildup is another common cause of clogged drains. Over time, minerals in your water can accumulate in your pipes, creating a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. This is especially true in areas with hard water.
To prevent mineral buildup, consider installing a water softener system. You can also clean your drains periodically with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to dissolve any mineral deposits.
Tree Roots
Tree roots can also cause clogs in your drains. As trees grow, their roots can invade your pipes, causing cracks and blockages. This can cause slow drainage and even complete blockages.
To prevent tree roots from clogging your drains, avoid planting trees near your sewer line. If you suspect that tree roots are causing a blockage, contact a professional plumber to evaluate the situation.
Improper Installation
Improper installation can also cause clogs in your drains. If your pipes are not installed correctly, they can develop blockages or leaks that lead to clogs.
To prevent improper installation from causing clogs, only hire licensed and experienced plumbers to install your pipes. Make sure that they follow all building codes and regulations.
Final Thoughts
Clogged drains can be a hassle to deal with, but they can often be prevented by understanding the common causes and taking preventative measures. By using drain covers, avoiding pouring grease and oil down the drain, and generally being mindful of what goes down the drain, you can keep your drains flowing smoothly.
For drain cleaning in Shelby County, AL, choose Professor Plumb. We know you can’t put a price on your peace of mind; all of our technicians are drug-free and have passed a criminal background check. Our knowledgeable technicians will show up in uniform and on time. Call us today!