logo
logo
AI Products 

Common Causes of Drain Clogs and the Solutions

avatar
William Koonce
Common Causes of Drain Clogs and the Solutions

Common Causes of Drain Clogs



Drain clogs are some of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Clogs are not only tricky to detect and repair, they can also cause a lot of water damage and frustration. Luckily, understanding the common causes of drain clogs can help prevent them from forming in the first place.


One of the most common causes of drain clogs comes from a buildup of grease and oils in the pipes. Grease and oils are often difficult to properly dispose of in the right way and can be washed through the sink and into the pipes. Over time, this can cause a clog. Taking steps like using a grease-cutting soap when washing dishes, using cold water, and disposing of grease and oils in an appropriate manner can help avoid grease-related clogs.


Another common cause of drain clogs is the accumulation of hair, soap residue, and other debris. Hair and soap residue can easily collect in the pipes and cause a clog if not addressed quickly. Installing a drain stopper or mesh guard in the shower or tub is a great way to limit the amount of debris that gets washed into the pipes.


Finally, tree roots can also be one of the major causes of drain clogs. The roots of trees and shrubs often travel through sewer pipes, reaching out in search of water. When these roots manage to make it into your pipes, they can puncture or crack the pipes, in turn leading to clogging and severe water damage. Having regularly scheduled drain cleaning service and inspections can help prevent roots and other foreign objects from entering the pipes in the first place.


Solutions For Clogged Drains



It’s easy to put off dealing with a clogged drain, but addressing the issue as soon as possible is necessary to avoid more serious and expensive plumbing problems in the future. There are several simple solutions that homeowners can use when dealing with clogs, depending on the type and severity of the clog.


For minor clogs, using a plunger to push out the stuck debris is usually the most effective method. However, if the clog is more severe and further down the pipe, an auger or drain snake may be necessary. These tools can help unblock the pipe by breaking down solid materials.


If the clog is caused by some type of foreign object, like roots or small toys, you can buy specially designed products from the hardware store to help remove them from the drain. Lastly, chemical solutions are not recommended as the harsh chemicals can be damaging to the pipes if used for too long.


It’s important to remember that prevention is the best way to avoid clogged drains. Taking the steps to maintain and regularly clean and inspect your plumbing can help head off more serious clogs and potential water damage.


Conclusion



Drain clogs can be a major headache for homeowners. Knowing the common causes of drain clogs and having an understanding of the various solutions can help you avoid a lot of time, money and frustration. Fortunately, most minor clogs can be dealt with using simple solutions, while more serious clogs usually require the help of a local plumber. Regular routine maintenance and cleaning can also help you keep your drains free of clogs and clear of any potential water damage.

collect
0
avatar
William Koonce
guide
Zupyak is the world’s largest content marketing community, with over 400 000 members and 3 million articles. Explore and get your content discovered.
Read more