Common Causes of Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are a prevalent issue that often leads homeowners to seek the expertise of a plumber. Whether it’s the kitchen sink, bathtub, or toilet, the inconvenience of a clogged drain can significantly disrupt daily routines. Beyond mere annoyance, clogs can also pose serious risks and disrupt the flow of water. They can lead to flooding in your home, accelerate corrosion within your plumbing system, and in extreme scenarios, result in sewage backups that create unsanitary conditions. Understanding these potential consequences emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear and functional drainage systems. But what are some common causes of clogged drains? Read through our guide to find out!

The majority of plumbing clogs are caused by materials we inadvertently allow down our drains. Common culprits include food waste, paper towels, toilet paper, baby wipes, grease buildup from cooking processes, hair strands in bathrooms, and foreign objects like toys or sanitary products mistakenly flushed down toilets. By learning to recognize these prevalent causes of clogs—as well as adopting preventive measures such as installing drain screens and avoiding pouring grease down the sink—homeowners can mitigate potential damage and costly repairs. Taking proactive steps not only protects your plumbing system but also affords peace of mind knowing you’re contributing to a healthier household environment. 

So, what steps can you take to prevent clogged drains? The answer varies depending on what has caused the clog. From food scraps, to hair strands, foreign objects and more, different clogs require different attention.

When it comes to disposing of food scraps, it’s essential to be cautious about what you put down your drain, even if you have a garbage disposal. Household disposals are designed for small amounts of waste and can easily become clogged or damaged if overloaded with larger food items. Foods like coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, rice, and fibrous fruits and vegetables are particularly problematic as they can create blockages in the plumbing system, leading to costly repairs. To maintain the efficiency of your plumbing and prevent unpleasant backups in sink drains, it is advisable to dispose of these items through alternative means rather than relying solely on your garbage disposal.

Instead of sending large food scraps down the drain or allowing them to accumulate in your trash bin, consider composting as a sustainable and environmentally friendly option. Composting not only reduces the volume of waste that ends up in landfills but also creates nutrient-rich soil that can enhance garden health. By making composting a regular practice at home, individuals can manage their food waste more effectively while contributing to a healthier planet. Incorporating this habit into daily life significantly reduces reliance on disposals and fosters a culture of sustainability by maximizing resource use and minimizing unnecessary waste.

Buildup of hair, whether from humans or pets, can create significant plumbing issues by forming clogs when it binds with grease and other sticky substances that are washed down drains. This accumulation of human hair or pet hair can trap various debris over time, leading to slow drainage and potentially costly plumbing repairs. In households where pets shed frequently, the situation can be exacerbated, as their fur adds to the mixture that causes blockages. Regular maintenance and awareness are crucial in preventing these clogs; individuals should be mindful of how much hair is being washed down the drain during showers and while bathing.

One effective strategy for mitigating hair-related clogs is the installation of drain covers in showers bathtubs, and bathroom sinks. These covers act as a barrier, capturing stray hairs before they enter the plumbing system. By keeping as much hair out of drains as possible, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of developing stubborn clogs. Additionally, pet owners may want to consider bathing their furry companions outdoors whenever circumstances allow. Not only does this help minimize indoor messes and potential drain obstructions caused by shedding fur, but it also promotes a more enjoyable bathing experience for pets who may appreciate being outside during bath time. By implementing these preventative measures, one can maintain a healthier plumbing system while minimizing inconveniences associated with hair buildup in bathroom drains.

It’s not uncommon for a bouncy ball or other toy to make its way down into the depths of a toilet or bathtub drain when you have kids. While these objects may seem relatively small, they are often just the right size to become lodged in a pipe’s u-bend, creating significant blockages that can disrupt household routines. Parents quickly learn that what starts as innocent fun can lead to inconvenient plumbing issues if vigilant measures are not taken.

To effectively mitigate the risk of foreign objects causing clogs, one of the most practical solutions is installing drain covers. These simple yet effective devices act as barriers, allowing water to flow freely while preventing small toys and other stray items from slipping through into the plumbing system. By using drain covers in sinks, showers, and bathtubs, homeowners can safeguard their plumbing from unexpected obstructions and avoid costly repairs. It’s a straightforward preventative step that gives peace of mind to parents while ensuring that their drains remain clear and functional for daily use.

With the inconvenience of a drain clog, you may be wondering what the quickest way possible is to free up your sewer lines. There are a wide variety of ways that you can unclog a drain, but the best way is to call in a professional plumber. By doing so, you can ensure that your drainage system works properly and efficiently. If you are insistent on doing it yourself, however, you can follow our guide here! There are chemical drain cleaners that you can buy, and some DIY methods include:

Dish Soap and Hot Water: For grease clogs, pour a bit of dish soap into the drain, then flush with hot water. The soap can help break down greasy build-up and increase water flow.

Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 15-20 minutes, then flush with hot water. This natural solution breaks down build-up.

Plunger: A basic plunger can help dislodge clogs by creating suction and pushing the blockage through. Make sure to get a good seal around the drain.

Overall, whether it is toilet paper, hair, food, or other foreign objects, drain clogs can be a major inconvenience. If you ever need assistance with any of your plumbing systems, Same Day is here to help! Visit us today and any of our certified experts will be happy to help!