Top 7 Causes of Blocked Drains and How to Prevent Them
Blocked drains are a common plumbing problem for homeowners. They often lead to costly repairs and disruptions. Understanding the root causes of blocked drains is the first step toward preventing them. This article will explore the main causes of blocked drains. We’ll also provide tips to keep your plumbing flowing.
At In House Plumbing, we specialize in plumbing and bathroom renovations. We help homeowners with fast, reliable solutions to their problems. Let’s dive into the top 7 causes of blocked drains and how to prevent them.
What You’ll Learn:
- Build-Up of Grease and Fat in Kitchen Drains
- Flushing Non-Flushable Items in Toilets
- Hair Accumulation in Bathroom Drains
- Tree Root Intrusion in Outdoor Pipes
- Improper Disposal of Food Waste
- Accumulation of Soap Scum in Drains
- Poor Installation or Aging Plumbing Systems
1. Build-Up of Grease and Fat in Kitchen Drains
Cooking oils, fats, and grease are some of the biggest culprits behind blocked kitchen drains. When poured down the sink, these substances cool and solidify, sticking to the inner walls of your pipes.
How to Prevent It:
- Avoid pouring grease down the sink: Instead, collect it in a container and dispose of it in the trash.
- Use a sink strainer: Catch food particles and prevent them from entering the drain.
- Flush your drains with hot water and vinegar: This helps dissolve any minor grease buildup.
If you’re dealing with persistent grease clogs, our drain cleaning services can help.
2. Flushing Non-Flushable Items in Toilets
It’s easy to think that anything small can be flushed, but that’s not the case. Items like wet wipes, sanitary products, cotton balls, and tissues don’t break down in water and can cause significant clogs.
How to Prevent It:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste.
- Educate your household: Make sure everyone knows what can and cannot go down the toilet.
- Keep a trash bin nearby: Provide a convenient alternative for disposing of non-flushable items.
For severe blockages, our sewer line cleaning services offer an effective solution.
3. Hair Accumulation in Bathroom Drains
Hair strands are notorious for creating blockages in bathroom sinks and shower drains. Combined with soap scum and other debris, hair can quickly form a stubborn clog.
How to Prevent It:
- Use a drain cover: Catch hair before it goes down the drain.
- Clean the drain cover regularly: Prevent build-up by removing trapped hair frequently.
- Flush drains with hot water: This can loosen soap scum and break down minor clogs.
For a thorough inspection and to identify problem areas, consider our camera inspection services.
4. Tree Root Intrusion in Outdoor Pipes
Tree roots are a sneaky cause of blocked drains. They grow toward water sources, including underground pipes. They can cause cracks, leaks, or blockages.
How to Prevent It:
- Inspect your plumbing system: Regular maintenance can identify vulnerable pipes.
- Avoid planting trees near pipes: Choose appropriate locations for landscaping.
- Call a professional if you suspect root intrusion: Early detection can save you from extensive damage.
For more detailed insights on addressing tree root intrusion in drains, including practical solutions and preventative measures, visit our comprehensive guide on How to Fix Tree Root Intrusion in Drains.
If tree roots are affecting your pipes, our high-pressure water jetting services can clear the blockage efficiently.
5. Improper Disposal of Food Waste
Even with a garbage disposal, certain food items shouldn’t go down the drain. Coffee grounds, egg shells, pasta, and fibrous vegetables can lead to blockages over time.
How to Prevent It:
- Dispose of food waste in the trash or compost bin.
- Run cold water when using a garbage disposal: This helps food particles flow more easily through your plumbing.
- Clean your garbage disposal regularly: Use baking soda and vinegar to eliminate buildup.
If food waste has clogged your drains, our drain cleaning services can resolve the issue.
6. Accumulation of Soap Scum in Drains
Soap residue may seem harmless, but over time, it accumulates and creates a sticky layer inside pipes, slowing water flow and causing clogs.
How to Prevent It:
- Switch to liquid soap or detergent: These leave less residue compared to bar soap.
- Rinse drains regularly with hot water: This can dissolve soap scum before it becomes a problem.
- Use a baking soda and vinegar solution monthly: This is a natural way to keep drains clear.
7. Poor Installation or Aging Plumbing Systems
If your home has outdated plumbing or poorly installed pipes, you’re more likely to encounter recurring blockages. Misaligned or sagging pipes can trap debris, while old materials may corrode and restrict water flow.
How to Prevent It:
- Schedule a plumbing inspection: Regular check-ups can identify potential issues before they worsen.
- Upgrade outdated pipes: Modern materials are more durable and efficient.
- Work with experienced professionals: At In House Plumbing, we ensure quality installations and repairs to prevent future problems.
This comprehensive guide offers practical tips on preventing clogged drains, including the use of drain strainers and proper disposal methods.
Final Thoughts
Blocked drains are a hassle, but with the right preventative measures, you can keep your plumbing in top shape. You can avoid costly repairs by fixing common causes, like grease build-up, hair clogs, and tree roots. This will keep your home running smoothly.
At In House Plumbing, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy, functional home. Whether you need help with drain cleaning, camera inspections, or a full bathroom renovation, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can prevent and resolve the causes of blocked drains!
