Top Causes of Clogged Drains
Plumbing issues are vast and the most common one around homes is a clogged drain. Sometimes it’s easy for the home owner to unclog but there are instances when it becomes complicated that a professional has to come and help in fixing it. It is uncomfortable having a blocked drain and it inconveniences your daily operations, not mentioning the stench that emanates from it.
Clogged drains are caused by objects that accidentally fall into the drain and block that passage or a build-up of everyday dirt that is poured down the drain. Whichever the case, when you experience a blocked drainage, you will need to understand the main cause and avoid it in future. Here is a list of top causes of clogged drains around our homes.
Build-up of dirt
It’s hard to believe that dirt can cause a drain to block, when the main purpose of a drain is to get rid of dirt, right? Well, a buildup of dirt can actually cause a clogged drain. When the dirt is combined with soap and grease, it is easy for it to build up and cause a blockage. You can use a plunger in this case to fix this problem. You can also pour hot water down the drain to melt away any grease that is causing the blockage.
Food left overs and particles
Kitchen sinks generally suffer blockage caused by food left-overs and food particles that are emptied inside the sink instead of a trash bin. Most kitchen sinks have a garbage disposal compartment but still, this can also get filled up and lead to a clogged drain. Certain food particles do not break down easily that is why they build-up with time and block the passage. If your sink has a garbage disposal, open it up regularly and clean it before replacing and avoid emptying food waste into the sink.
Used Toiletries
The drain is an important part of the home as it helps you clear out waste but it is also one of the delicate compartments. Only tissue paper is allowed down the drain because it easily absorbs water and passes through the drain easily. It is not advisable to flush down toiletries like used diapers and wipes as well as feminine products like sanitary towels. They are too bulky and heavy, and will easily lead to a blockage. Dispose of the used diapers and wipes in trash bins instead.
Soap Residues
We use soap every day when cleaning and bathing, it is unavoidable but it is important to note that soap residue can accumulate over time and reduce the diameter of the pipe. Soap also easily combines with other materials like hair and dirt creating a substance that cannot easily go down the drainage pipes. This causes a clog in your system and can be fixed by pressure cleaning – the use of high-pressure water spray to loosen the clog.
Oil and Grease
Too much build-up of oil and grease can cause serious blockage of your drain system. Most of the time, the build-up solidifies and blocks the pipe making it difficult for water to pass through. Pouring hot boiling water can easily melt the grease in the pipes and clear the blockage, though that is not enough. You can mix some detergent with hot water before pouring it down the drain, or put a spoonful of baking soda before washing it away with hot water. The water should be boiling hot for it to be effective in breaking down the solidified grease.
Poor Installation of Pipes
Do-it-yourself ventures are always advisable as they save you money, but in complex situations like fixing pipes, it is recommended to hire the services of a professional plumber. When the pipes are fixed poorly, or unprofessionally, it can lead to drain blockages that may cost you more in re-installation. Poor installation can lead to fractured pipes or improper flow of water hence blockage. Always hire the services of a professional when it comes to installation of pipes for correct layout.
Roots, leaves and other plants
When your external drain is clogged, the first culprit is usually plants, leaves and roots of trees. They can enter the system especially during the seasons that trees shed most of their leaves. Unless you are a plumber yourself, this problem can only be fixed by a professional. Ensure your external drainage system is adequately covered to prevent a build-up of leaves and other plant particles from blocking the pipes.
Another culprit, though uncommon is the build-up of minerals from the type of water you use. Water that is too hard has more chemicals that can easily accumulate and cause blockage in the pipes. It is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid a clogged drain, but when it happens, you can use a good drain cleaner or clog remover. Also keep an eye on little children who can curiously try to flush anything, including toys down the drain.