Have you experienced waking up one day and being greeted by an ankle-deep flood in your bathroom? There’s really nothing more annoying than getting surprised by a compromised drain. Besides the risk of flooding, there is also the sewer stench and mess that can make your drain cleaning a hassle.
Add to that struggle the fact that the cause of clogs isn’t always easy to point out. There are many reasons clogs happen, making it harder to resolve the issue. If you’re unaware of where your clogs come from, here’s a guide that will hint you at its possible causes and how to solve and avoid them.
Non-Flushable Items
Many are guilty of flushing things that shouldn’t. Wipes, paper towels, and even cotton balls are often labeled “flushable.” The real score, however, is that they don’t break down like toilet paper. Instead, they sit in your pipes and cause major blockages. Over time, these items can form stubborn clogs that disrupt your plumbing and can even cause backups.
Never flush anything other than toilet paper. Always throw wipes, paper towels, and cotton swabs in the trash. It may seem trivial, but it will save you a lot of trouble from premature drain cleaning or drain repair. Make sure everyone in your household knows the importance of flushing only toilet paper.
Pouring Down Grease In Your Sink
Are you also one of those home cooks who conveniently rinses their greasy pots in the sink? Or do you instantly throw away your hot oil down the drain expecting it to just find its way into your sewer system? It’s time to ditch this habit.
When you cook, it’s tempting to pour leftover grease down the sink. It’s fast and easy, but it can lead to big plumbing problems. As the grease cools, it solidifies and sticks to your pipes. Over time, it builds up and causes major clogs that slow or completely block water flow.
Instead of pouring grease down your sink, use a grease solidifier. This product turns your used oil into a solid, allowing you to throw it away into your bin without the mess. You can also wipe your pots and pans with a paper towel before washing them. This simple step prevents grease from entering your pipes in the first place.
Letting Hair and Soap Scum Into Your Drains
Hair is one of the most common causes of bathroom clogs. Whether it’s from showering, brushing, or shaving, hair can easily end up in your drain. It can tangle and combine with soap scum to form stubborn clogs. Over time, this can cause slow draining and backups in your shower or sink.
To solve this, you can install a drain cover or hair catcher in your bathroom drains. This will filter hair and allow you to pick it out before it enters your pipes. Clean it out regularly to keep its proper function. It will also help if you can switch to liquid soap, which tends to produce less soap scum than bar soap.
Planting Too Close to Your Plumbing
Did you know that tree roots can invade your pipes? Roots naturally search for water, so if there’s even a tiny crack in your pipes, they’ll find their way in. Once inside, the roots grow, causing blockages and potentially damaging your pipes. This can lead to major plumbing issues and an expensive drain repair.
When planting trees or shrubs, make sure to keep them away from your plumbing lines. It’s a general rule to plant them at least 10 feet away. If you already have trees near your pipes, you can use tree root guards to divert them away from your pipes.
It is also practical to invest in regular plumbing inspections to know whether you’re at risk of tree root infestation. Your plumber can do a rooting service if it is necessary.
Hard Water
Hard water is filled with minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals can build up inside your pipes, creating a scale that restricts water flow. This buildup can eventually lead to blockages. If you live in an area with hard water, you’re more likely to experience this issue.
Consider investing in a water softener system at home. A water softener reduces the minerals in hard water, preventing them from building up in your pipes. Regularly cleaning your drains with vinegar or a descaling solution can also help clear any mineral buildup before they develop into blockages.
Get The Right Drain Solution for Your Clogs with Home Heroes Plumbing Heating & Air
Sometimes, no matter how much you try to prevent clogs, they still happen. That’s when you need an expert to help. Home Heroes Plumbing Heating & Air is here to tackle any drain issues you might have. We offer fast and effective drain cleaning to keep your pipes flowing smoothly. Whether it’s dealing with stubborn grease buildup, tree root intrusion, or anything else, we’ve got the right tools and experience to get the job done.
Don’t wait until your drains start to back up. Contact Home Heroes Plumbing Heating & Air today for a thorough drain inspection and cleaning!
At Home Heroes Plumbing, Heating & Air, we're parents, homeowners, and neighbors first. We know what it’s like to have a broken AC in the middle of summer or no hot water when you need it most.
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