Common Causes of Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can be a frustrating and messy problem for homeowners. Whether it's a clogged shower drain, a bathtub drain clogged with hair, a kitchen sink drain that won't let water flow, or a dishwasher drain that's backing up, these issues are all too common.

Understanding the causes of clogged drains is essential to preventing them and keeping your plumbing in good working order. In this blog, we will explore the common culprits behind clogged drains and offer tips on how to prevent them:

By taking proactive measures and following the tips mentioned below, you can keep your plumbing system in good working order and minimize the inconvenience of clogged drains.

Let’s get into it!

Let's start with the shower and bathtub drains. These drains are particularly susceptible to clogs caused by a combination of hair and soap scum. Over time, as you shower or bathe, hair and soap scum accumulate in the drainpipe. Hair gets tangled and forms a barrier, while soap scum can solidify, narrowing the passage. The result? Slow-draining water and eventually a completely clogged shower or bathtub drain.

Tip: Use a hair catcher or screen to trap hair before it enters the drain. Regularly clean the drain to remove soap scum build-up.

Clogged sink drains are often the result of food debris going down the drain, especially in the kitchen. Items like grease, coffee grounds, and large food particles can accumulate in the pipes, causing blockages. Grease is a major offender, as it solidifies over time, making it a perfect trap for other debris.

Tip: Avoid pouring grease down the sink and use a strainer to catch food particles. Dispose of grease in a separate container and throw it in the trash.

Sometimes, clogs in the drain are caused by foreign objects that accidentally find their way into the plumbing system. Children's toys, jewelry, or small items can accidentally get washed down the sink or bathtub drain. Even tiny objects can lead to big problems when it comes to plumbing.

Tip: Be cautious about what goes near your drains, especially if you have children. Consider using drain covers to prevent small items from slipping into the drain.

A clogged dishwasher drain can be a nuisance. Dishwashers often leave behind residue from food particles, grease, and detergent. Over time, this residue can accumulate and block the dishwasher drain.

Tip: Ensure that dishes are scraped and rinsed before loading them into the dishwasher. Regularly clean the dishwasher's filter and drain to prevent build-up.

Clogged toilets are a common issue, and they are usually caused by flushing items other than toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Baby wipes, hygiene products, and excessive toilet paper can create blockages in the pipes.

Tip: Educate your household members on what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet. Place a wastebasket in the bathroom for the disposal of hygiene products.

Over time, mineral build-up can accumulate deep within your pipes, leading to clogs. This is especially common in areas with hard water, as minerals like calcium and magnesium can deposit in the pipes, narrowing the passage for water flow.

Tip: Consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral build-up in your pipes. Regularly descale your faucets and showerheads to prevent mineral blockages.

In some cases, the culprit for a clogged drain might be tree roots infiltrating your underground pipes. Tree roots are attracted to water sources and can penetrate your pipes, causing significant blockages and damage.

Tip: If you suspect tree root intrusion, consult a professional plumber who can assess the situation and recommend the appropriate solutions, such as pipe relining or root removal.

In the kitchen, it's not just grease alone that causes problems, but the combination of grease and soap. When these substances mix, they can create a stubborn clog that is challenging to remove.

Tip: Regularly flush your kitchen drain with hot water to help prevent the build-up of this troublesome mixture.

Old and corroded pipes are more prone to clogs. As pipes deteriorate, the rough interior surfaces can catch debris, causing blockages.

Tip: If you have older pipes that are frequently clogged, it might be time to consider a plumbing system upgrade.

The most common cause of clogged drains is often the lack of regular maintenance. Over time, even small amounts of debris can accumulate and eventually lead to a clog. Prevention is key to avoiding these issues.

Tip: Implement regular drain maintenance, including cleaning out your drains with natural remedies or professional drain cleaning services. Preventive care can help avoid costly repairs down the road.