Common Drain Clog Causes

If not addressed promptly, clogged drains can disrupt your daily routine, create unpleasant odors and even lead to costly repairs. To avoid these issues, it’s important to understand what causes the problem.

This knowledge allows you to take steps to reduce the risk of clogs, saving you time, money and stress. At Service Squad Plumbing, we’re here to help you explore the common causes of drain clogs and provide some practical tips for keeping your drains clear.

Understanding Drain Clogs: Signs Of A Problem

A drain clog happens when debris or substances block the flow of water through your pipes. Common indicators include slow drainage, odors emanating from the drains and gurgling noises in your plumbing.

Many homeowners face this issue, but the good news is that it’s often preventable with a bit of knowledge and care. By understanding common causes of clogged drains, you’ll be able to take steps to avoid the problem.

Why Is My Drain Clogged? Explore Common Reasons For Pesky Blockages

For the most part, your drains can be counted on to dispose of water and other liquids with ease. However, when certain objects make their way down your drains, the effectiveness of your plumbing is threatened. Below are some of the things that can contribute to the formation of blockages.

Hair Buildup

One of the most common causes of clogged bathroom drains is hair. Hair that falls down the drain can combine with soap scum and other sediments, forming clumps that obstruct the flow of water. Regularly cleaning your drains and using a drain guard can help catch hair before it becomes a problem.

Grease And Oil

In the kitchen, grease and oil are frequent culprits of clogged drains. These substances exist in liquid form when hot, but as they cool, they’ll solidify. When hot grease or oil is poured down your drain and hardens, it can stick to the walls of your pipes and create blockages.

Don’t pour grease down the sink! Instead, let it cool and dispose of the congealed substance in the trash.

Food Waste

Many people use their kitchen sink and garbage disposal to get rid of food waste, but not all food items are suitable for this. Coffee grounds, eggshells and fibrous vegetables are just some examples of foods that can easily cause clogs. Dispose of these items in the compost or trash to avoid blockages.

Soap Scum

Soap scum is another common issue that can cause blocked drains. When soap mixes with the minerals in your water, it can create a residue that builds up over time. This buildup can narrow the path in your pipes and restrict water flow. Regular cleaning and the use of liquid soap instead of bar soap can help reduce soap scum buildup.

Foreign Objects

Small objects such as jewelry, toys or hygiene products can fall into your drains, leading to clogs. It’s important to be careful about what you keep near your drains and to use drain covers to prevent foreign objects from causing blockages.

Preventive Measures To Avoid Clogged Drains

Preventing blocked drains is crucial for maintaining a plumbing system that runs smoothly. By following these simple but effective preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the frequency of experiencing frustrating drain clogs:

• Regular cleaning — Keeping your drains clean is one of the best ways to prevent clogs. Monitor your drains regularly for signs of a problem and flush them with hot water to clear any buildup.
• Proper disposal practices — Dispose of grease, food waste and other clog-causing materials properly. Instead of relying on a garbage disposal, try disposing of food scraps in a compost bin.
• Drain guards — Drain guards are inexpensive and effective tools to catch hair and other debris before they enter your pipes. Place them over your drains in the bathroom and kitchen to prevent clogs.
• Professional inspections — Even with the best preventive measures, some clogs may still occur. Regular inspections from a plumber can help catch issues early and keep your plumbing system in top condition.

By incorporating these preventive measures into your routine, you can minimize the risk of clogs. If you need professional assistance with this, don’t hesitate to contact Service Squad!

Know When To Schedule A Professional Drain Cleaning

Despite your best efforts, you might still encounter stubborn clogs that DIY methods can’t fix. If you’re starting to wonder, “Why do my pipes keep clogging?” give our team a call.

Signs that you need to call a professional plumber include frequent clogs, slow drainage that you can’t resolve and strange noises coming from your pipes. At Service Squad, we have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix severe clogs without causing damage to your plumbing system.

We’re Here For Your Fort Worth Plumbing Needs

Backed-up drains are a common issue, but with the right knowledge, you can keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Understanding the common causes of drain clogs allows you to take steps to prevent them.

If you find that you’re dealing with persistent clogs or need professional assistance, Service Squad Plumbing is here to help. Give us a call to learn more about our services or to book your appointment.