The Causes and Solutions for Common Clogged Drain Issues

Clogged drains can be one of life's less than glamorous issues, yet they remain an inevitable aspect of modern living. From slow draining sinks and bathtubs to completely blocked pipes, clogged drains can quickly become major hassles that must be resolved immediately. Luckily, many causes of clogged drains stem from everyday issues that can easily be addressed. In this blog, we will look at some of the most common sources of clogs along with preventative measures and practical solutions for keeping your plumbing flowing.

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Wash Away Your Hair, But Into the Drain 

It may not seem so serious as you wash away a few strands of hair in your morning shower, but hair accumulation in drains is one of the biggest sources of slow or clogged drains. Over time, hair builds up in drains and, when combined with soap scum build-up, it can form blockages which become difficult to clear away.

Solutions for Hair Clogs

To combat hair accumulation, consider installing a drain screen or hair catcher in your shower or sink. These inexpensive devices act as a barrier by trapping loose strands so they don't slip through into your pipes and cause blockages. For any existing hair clogs that have already formed, however, a plumber's snake or simple wire hanger might just be your saving grace.

Food Waste in the Drain

Whilst your kitchen sink may seem like the perfect place to dispose of leftover food scraps, drains are not meant to act as garbage disposals (literally). Grease, coffee grounds, starchy foods like pasta and even eggshells have a way of blocking up drains, causing blockages that clog them up even more than expected.

Preventing Food-Related Clogs  

As a general rule of thumb for avoiding food-related clogs, first scrape your plates before rinsing. Next, if you have a garbage disposal unit, use it sparingly and responsibly. Don't dispose of cooking grease directly into the sink. Instead store it safely away in an approved container. If your household is prone to have  frequent kitchen clogs, periodically flushing with hot water and dish soap can break up any grease residue before it accumulates into an even greater issue.

Soap Scum Doesn't Just Disappear

Unfortunately, soap (even the type used to clean) is an unwelcome guest in your drains. Over time, soap scum mixes with minerals in your water supply to form a sticky build-up on your pipes that clings tightly against their inside walls.

Combat the Scum  

Switch to liquid soap or shower gels as they tend to leave less residue behind than bar soap, while regular maintenance tasks, like pouring hot water down your drains weekly, can help clear away buildup before it becomes an issue.

It Could Be Hard Water Problems

If you are living in an area with hard water, then you are likely familiar with limescale deposits that build up over time in drains, gradually narrowing their diameter and eventually resulting in blockages.

Preventative Measures for Hard Water

A water softener can be an effective preventive measure against hard water's effects, while vinegar is your secret weapon against limescale buildup. Pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drain, followed by hot water, to break down stubborn deposits.

Tree Roots Are Sneakier Than You Think  

Tree roots growing underground can be a sneaky source of blockages in older homes with clay sewer pipes. As moisture attracts these roots, which crack into them and cause blockages that ultimately require costly repairs to clear away.

Dealing with Root Intrusions  

Unfortunately, dealing with root intrusions often requires professional intervention. Your best defense should be to monitor the health of your plumbing system regularly and consider having annual sewer line inspections if there are mature trees existing near your home.

When All Else Fails, Call the Professionals  

When your DIY attempts fail or you experience persistent clogs, it may be time to call in the professionals. This local plumber has access to knowledge and specialized tools needed to tackle complex plumbing problems that are out of sight. From root intrusions or pipe damage through to stubborn buildup deep in your system that needs removal, professional plumbers can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. By providing timely diagnosis, solutions, and services, they will help you avoid future issues and keep your pipes in tiptop condition.

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Conclusion 

While drain blockages are unavoidable, by understanding their causes and taking preventative steps you can often head them off before they spiral out of control. From homemade solutions to calling in professional help, the key to keeping drains clear lies with consistent care and smart practices. After all, a happy home should always feature free-flowing water.