Dealing with a clogged drain is a frequent and frustrating problem for homeowners. A seemingly minor issue can quickly escalate into major plumbing repairs if not addressed early. Understanding what causes these clogs is the first step toward preventing them and keeping your plumbing system running smoothly. Below are seven of the most common causes of drain blockages in homes.
1. Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)
Fats, oils, and grease are major culprits behind kitchen sink clogs. While these substances appear harmless when hot, they quickly cool and solidify inside your pipes. This build-up gradually restricts water flow and can lead to complete blockages. To prevent this, avoid pouring FOG down the drain. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.
2. Hard and Absorbent Foods
Certain food items should never go down your garbage disposal. Hard items like eggshells and coffee grounds, along with absorbent foods such as pasta and rice, can damage your disposal blades and expand in your pipes. These materials do not break down easily, increasing the risk of clogs. Always scrape food scraps into the trash or compost bin rather than the sink.
3. Hair and Soap Scum
Bathroom drains frequently clog due to a combination of hair and soap scum. As hair travels down the drain, it catches on rough surfaces and binds with soap residue, forming dense clumps that resist water flow. Installing drain strainers in showers and tubs can significantly reduce the amount of hair entering your plumbing system. Regularly cleaning these covers can help keep water flowing freely.
4. Foreign Objects and “Flushable” Wipes
Toilets are only designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. Unfortunately, items like cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products, and so-called “flushable” wipes often end up being flushed. These materials don’t disintegrate like toilet paper and can cause serious blockages in both residential plumbing and municipal sewer systems. To avoid problems, dispose of these items in the trash.
5. Mineral Build-up from Hard Water
If your home has hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate inside your pipes over time. This build-up narrows the pipe diameter, reducing water flow and increasing the chance of clogs. Installing a water softener can help minimize these deposits, prolong the life of your plumbing, and improve overall water efficiency.
6. Tree Roots Infiltrating Pipes
Underground plumbing is not immune to problems. Tree roots naturally seek out water and can invade even the smallest cracks in pipes. Once inside, they expand and block water flow. This issue is more common in older homes or properties with large trees nearby. Regular plumbing inspections can help detect this problem early before it leads to significant damage.
7. Misaligned or Damaged Pipes
Over time, pipes can shift or become damaged due to soil movement, house settling, or construction. Misalignments or cracks in the piping system can catch debris and cause clogs. If you’re experiencing frequent or recurring blockages, a video inspection from a licensed plumber can reveal hidden issues within your plumbing infrastructure.
How to Prevent Drain Clogs
Most drain clogs can be avoided with simple maintenance and better disposal habits:
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Use sink strainers in kitchen and bathroom drains
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Dispose of grease, coffee grounds, and food scraps in the trash
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Clean your drains regularly with natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar
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Avoid flushing anything besides waste and toilet paper
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Schedule annual plumbing inspections to catch potential problems early
These small steps can help you avoid the hassle and expense of major plumbing repairs.
Need Help with Persistent Clogs?
If you’re struggling with frequent or stubborn drain clogs in Nottingham, MD, Fluid Plumbing & Heating LLC is here to help. Our experienced team provides professional drain cleaning services to restore proper flow and keep your plumbing system in excellent condition.
Call us today at 443-413-4117 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. Let Fluid Plumbing & Heating LLC take care of your drain issues quickly and reliably.