Understanding The Causes Of Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can be frustrating and can lead to a variety of problems in your home. Not only do they cause water to back up, but they also create unpleasant odors and can even damage your pipes. Understanding what causes clogged drains can help you prevent them from happening in the first place and save you from costly repairs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common causes of clogged drains and what you can do to prevent them.

Hair 

One of the most common culprits behind clogged drains is hair. Whether you’re shaving or washing your hair, strands can easily get caught and accumulate in your drain. Over time, the hair builds up and creates a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. To prevent hair from clogging your drains, consider using a hair catcher in your sink or shower drain.

Food Waste 

If you have a garbage disposal, it can be tempting to throw all your food scraps down the drain. However, not all food waste can be safely disposed of in this way. Fatty and starchy foods like pasta, rice, and potato peels can easily clog your drains. To prevent clogs caused by food waste, make sure to scrape your plates and dispose of any excess food in the trash.

Soap and Dirt 

While soap and dirt may seem harmless, they can easily build up in your drain and create a blockage. When you shower or wash your hands, soap residue and dirt can accumulate in your drain and prevent water from flowing freely. To prevent clogs caused by soap and dirt, consider occasionally rinsing your drains with hot water.

Tree Roots 

If you have trees in your yard, you may be at risk for clogs caused by tree roots. As trees grow, their roots can infiltrate your pipes and create blockages. This is especially common in older homes with clay pipes. To prevent clogs caused by tree roots, consider having your pipes inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional plumber.

Foreign Objects 

Finally, clogs can also be caused by foreign objects like toys or jewelry. If you have children or pets in your home, they may accidentally drop items down the drain. To prevent clogs caused by foreign objects, make sure to keep small items out of reach and consider using drain covers to prevent items from accidentally falling down the drain.

Contact a plumber to learn more about clogged drains.