The Most Common Causes of Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. From slow drainage to complete blockages, understanding what causes clogs can help you prevent and address them effectively. This article explores the main culprits behind clogged drains and provides tips for resolving and avoiding the problem.

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Common Causes of Clogged Drains

1. Grease and Oil Buildup

Pouring grease or cooking oil down the drain can lead to serious clogs over time. As grease cools, it solidifies and sticks to the walls of your pipes, restricting water flow.

2. Hair Accumulation

Hair is a leading cause of clogs in bathroom drains. Call for after hours plumbing services in Neuse Township, NC. It binds with soap scum and other debris, forming tough blockages that are hard to remove without tools

3. Soap Residue

Traditional soaps contain fats that can combine with minerals in water to create soap scum. This scum builds up on the inside of pipes, reducing their diameter and leading to clogs.

4. Food Waste

Kitchen sinks often get clogged due to food scraps that should have been disposed of in the trash or compost. Coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous vegetables are common offenders.

5. Foreign Objects

Small objects like toys, jewelry, or other items accidentally dropped into drains can cause blockages. Toilets often get clogged when non-flushable items like wipes or sanitary products are flushed.

6. Tree Roots

In outdoor plumbing, tree roots can infiltrate sewer lines through tiny cracks, causing blockages as they grow and spread.

7. Mineral Buildup

Hard water can leave mineral deposits in your pipes, gradually narrowing them and increasing the risk of clogs. (Get more information)

How to Address Clogged Drains

1. Use a Plunger

A plunger is often effective for clearing minor clogs in sinks, bathtubs, or toilets.

2. Remove Debris Manually

For visible clogs caused by hair or food, use a drain snake or your hands (with gloves) to remove the blockage.

3. Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. Learn more about emergency plumbing in Neuse Township. This natural remedy can break down minor buildups

4. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

While tempting, chemical cleaners can damage pipes over time and are often ineffective against tough clogs.

5. Call a Professional

For stubborn or recurring clogs, a plumber can use specialized tools like hydro-jetting or augers to clear the blockage and inspect your pipes.

FAQs About Clogged Drains

1. Why is grease bad for drains?

Grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to pipe walls and gradually creating clogs.

2. How can I prevent hair from clogging my drains?

Use a drain screen or hair catcher in your shower and bathroom sink to trap hair before it enters the drain.

3. What foods should I avoid putting down the drain?

Avoid disposing of coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, eggshells, and grease in your kitchen sink.

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4. Are flushable wipes really safe for toilets?

No, even “flushable” wipes don’t break down easily and can cause serious clogs in your plumbing system.

5. How do tree roots cause clogs?

Tree roots can infiltrate underground pipes through small cracks, growing inside and blocking the flow of wastewater.

6. What should I do if my plunger doesn’t work?

If a plunger isn’t effective, try using a drain snake or call a professional plumber for assistance.

7. Can hard water cause clogged drains?

Yes, hard water leaves mineral deposits in pipes, which can accumulate and reduce water flow over time.

Tips to Prevent Clogged Drains

1. Dispose of Grease Properly: Pour grease into a container and throw it in the trash once it solidifies.
2. Use Drain Screens: Install drain covers in your sinks, showers, and bathtubs to catch debris.
3. Flush Drains Regularly: Pour hot water down drains weekly to prevent buildup.
4. Be Mindful of What You Flush: Only flush toilet paper and human waste to avoid clogs.
5. Schedule Professional Cleaning: Have a plumber clean your drains periodically to remove buildup and ensure smooth water flow.

Call Us for Expert Drain Cleaning Services

If clogged drains are causing you trouble, we’re here to help. Our skilled Neuse Township, NC plumbers can quickly identify and resolve blockages using safe and effective methods. Contact us today for reliable drain cleaning services!