Clogs… can there be anything more off-putting than brackish water or sewage rising from the drains as you wash the dishes or take a shower? Worse, after your initial disgust, you realize you’ll have to call an emergency plumber.
None of us like to be forced into this unexpected position. To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, Capital Care Plumbing has put together a list of the top seven reasons drains can clog.
Grease
Many of us think that pouring grease and oils down the drain while running hot water will keep the fats from congealing. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Grease will still collect, causing your drains to clog and blocking the flow of water.
Instead of pouring grease down your kitchen sink, collect it in a container and allow the grease to harden before disposing of it in the trash. For a detailed explanation of just how bad pouring grease down your drain can be, watch a short video about it here.
Soap Buildup
Soap causes your drains to clog in a similar way to grease. Soap scum slowly collects in the drain, causing the diameter of the drain to get smaller over time. This type of drain clog may not cause a backup as fast as a grease, but it will still stop the flow of water over time.
Hair
Hair is one of the major (and visible) causes of clogged drains. Typically occurring in the shower drain, the hair collects into a thick, tangled matte until water is no longer able to flow through. Drain plugs and drain screens will help to prevent hair from collecting in the drains and causing clogs.
Paper
Because paper is thin and breaks apart easily when wet, many people think that paper can be flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink. However, when balled up, paper increases in strength and can severely restrict the flow of water, leading to clogged drains.
Food Remnants
Undissolved food particles and larger food remnants can collect in your drain by sticking to the sides of the pipe, getting caught in the elbow joints, or by mixing with grease and soap scum. Sinks without a garbage disposal should not be used to dispose of food left on plates. Instead, scrape the food into the trash before washing the dishes.
Bath Products
Many bath products cause drains to clog because they are not water-soluble; bath salts are one example. These non-water-soluble products can build up after repeated use. Be sure to read the labels of any bath products before purchasing to make sure they’re water-soluble.
Tree Roots
A surprising cause of drain clogs is tree roots. As a tree ages, its roots may grow into the joints or cracks of sewer pipes, blocking them and causing your drains to back up. They may also wrap around pipes and eventually damage them as the size of the roots increases.
Clogged drains are a nuisance and an inconvenience. Teach your family to be wary of the hazards listed above to prevent major emergencies. If you notice signs of your drains clogging or if your drains are backed up, contact Capital Care Plumbing immediately.
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