Blocked drains are one of those pesky household issues that can quickly escalate into major problems if not addressed. Understanding what causes blocked drains is essential for homeowners looking to maintain a smooth-running plumbing system.
Let’s explore the top causes of blocked drains, helping you to identify and prevent them before they lead to costly repairs.
Table of Contents
Hair and Soap Scum Buildup
One of the most common culprits behind blocked bathroom drains is hair. Whether it’s from daily showers or grooming routines, hair tends to accumulate in pipes, especially when combined with soap scum.
This mixture can form stubborn clogs that restrict water flow. To combat this issue, consider investing in drain covers that catch hair before it enters your plumbing. Regularly cleaning these covers and flushing your drains with hot water can also help keep them clear and reduce the buildup of soap scum.
Grease and Fat Accumulation
If you’ve ever cooked a hearty meal, you know how easy it is to let a bit of grease slip down the kitchen sink. However, grease and fat can wreak havoc on your drains. As they cool, these substances solidify and stick to the sides of your pipes, eventually creating a blockage.
To prevent this, always dispose of cooking oils and fats in the bin rather than pouring them down the sink. Using a strainer to catch food particles and regularly flushing your drains with boiling water can also help keep grease at bay. If you do have a blockage, click here to have it professionally resolved.
Food Waste and Residue
In addition to grease, food waste is another major contributor to blocked drains. Starchy foods, fibrous vegetables, and leftover scraps can easily build up and create clogs in your plumbing. Items like potato peels, rice, and pasta should never be put down the sink.
Instead, consider composting your food waste or using a food waste disposal unit if you have one. By being mindful of what goes down your drains, you can significantly reduce the risk of blockages.
Foreign Objects
Sometimes, blockages occur due to foreign objects accidentally finding their way into your drains. Items like toys, sanitary products, and even wipes (which often claim to be flushable) can cause serious problems.
These objects can create major clogs that require professional assistance to remove. To avoid this issue, remind your family about what can and cannot be flushed or washed down the sink. Simple awareness can go a long way in keeping your drains clear.
Tree Roots
If you live in an older property with established trees nearby, you might be at risk of tree roots invading your underground pipes. As roots seek moisture, they can crack and penetrate pipes, leading to significant blockages.
This problem is often more pronounced during the rainy season when roots are actively searching for water. Regularly inspecting your plumbing and being mindful of any unusual drainage issues can help catch this problem early. If you suspect tree roots are causing trouble, consulting a professional plumber is advisable.
Getting a Price for a Drainage Solution
Look at the Price List
There are some companies that want to be open and transparent with their customers. therefore, they provide a price list on their website. Indeed, this can be a good way to get a general idea of the numbers without having to contact the team.
You can take a look at what services you might need, and this can be the starting price. Of course, it can go up depending on how serious the problem is that you’re experiencing.
Ask for a Quote Online
There are many drainage companies that are willing to offer you a quote online for their services. In other words, you’ll submit an online form, which can include answering some questions. This can allow the team to know what the problem is and what type of pricing you can expect.
Make sure you’re accurate with your description so that you can get a cost that reflects your problems. Some companies will contact you to provide the quote, while others can give you an instant price.
Call the Team
Do you prefer to speak to a member of the team and discuss the issue? You can always choose to call the team and let them know what the problem is. Indeed, they can listen to the issues you’re having and provide solutions.
They’ll know the prices for these tactics and be able to give you a quote over the phone. Then, you have all of the information you need to proceed with the services or go elsewhere. Therefore, know that calling is always going to be an option and it can provide you with more clarity.
Conclusion
Understanding the top causes of blocked drains is crucial for any homeowner. By being aware of these common culprits, you can take proactive steps to prevent blockages and protect your plumbing system. From hair and grease to foreign objects and tree roots, a little vigilance can save you a lot of hassle and expense in the long run.
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