A clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing issues in the entire country. It’s a rare household that doesn’t deal with a clogged drain at some point or another. A clogged drain may lead to slow water drainage, corrosion, flooding, and costly repairs. Prevention is the greatest technique. First, you need to know what causes a clogged drain, then you can prevent the issue altogether. In doing so, you’ll significantly reduce the money you spend on plumbing repairs each year!
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
The following items are known to cause severe drainage clogs. Household techniques may help remove the clog, but you’ll likely require professional drain cleaning services to make a difference. Here are the most common causes of clogged drains:
- Hair – Hair is a primary culprit for drainage clogs, as it binds with grease and soap scum to form a blockage.
- Soap – The fat used to create a bar of soap combines with the minerals in the water or hair residue to form a blockage.
- Dirt – We wash to remove dirt. Unfortunately, that dirt may accumulate into a ball and lead to clogged drainage in your bathtub or sink.
- Food Waste – Even with a garbage disposal, you should never put food waste down the drain. Toss it in the garbage instead.
- Minerals – If your home suffers from hard water, then mineral buildup may be a leading cause of a clogged drain. You may wish to install a water softener as a solution to remove sediment and descale your plumbing system.
Prevent Clogged Drains
One of the top methods to outright prevent a slow or clogged drain is occasional maintenance and thorough cleaning. You must be careful about what goes into your drainage system. We mentioned a few of the most common causes of clogged drains above, most of which you have direct control over. Here are further tips on preventing clogged drains:
- When cooking, save the grease in an old coffee can, then dispose of it in the trash.
- Throw your coffee grounds away, not in the garbage disposal.
- After each use, run hot water through your sink to keep oils moving through the drainage system.
- In the bathroom, clean drain stoppers regularly of hair, soap scum, and other buildups.
- Do not flush anything but toilet paper down the toilet.
- Consider installing drain screens over every drain in your home.
- If you have a septic system, schedule a professional inspection every 2-3 years for peak performance and to prevent clogs.
One key method to prevent a clogged drain is to schedule preventative maintenance. A maintenance appointment can help prevent recurring clogs, plumbing leaks, and keep your system running smoothly year-round. Furthermore, preventative maintenance helps cut down on costly repairs. By spending a little money now, you’ll save more in the long-run.
Schedule professional drain cleaning services with bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Amarillo by calling 806-243-1849. We’re here to keep your home’s drainage system running smoothly!
