Clogged drains are a common household problem that can be frustrating to deal with. Not only do they cause water to back up, but they can also lead to unpleasant odors and even damage to your plumbing system. In this post, we’ll explore the five most common reasons why drains get clogged and what you can do to prevent it from happening.
1. Hair
Hair is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to drain clogs. Whether it’s from shaving, washing your hair, or brushing it out, hair can quickly accumulate in your drains and form a tangled mess that blocks water from flowing through. To prevent hair from clogging your drains, use a drain strainer or stopper in your sink or shower and clean it regularly.
2. Grease and Oil
Grease and oil may seem harmless when they’re in liquid form, but once they cool down and solidify, they can wreak havoc on your drains. These substances stick to the inside of pipes and accumulate over time, eventually causing a blockage. To avoid this problem, never pour grease or oil down your sink or toilet – instead, dispose of them in the trash.
3. Food Scraps
Food scraps are another common culprit when it comes to drain clogs. Even small bits of food can accumulate over time and cause a blockage in your pipes. To prevent this from happening, always scrape leftover food into the trash before washing dishes or using your kitchen sink.
4. Soap Scum
Soap scum is a filmy residue that forms on the inside of pipes over time as soap mixes with hard water minerals. This buildup can eventually lead to a blockage that prevents water from flowing through smoothly. To prevent soap scum buildup, use a drain cleaner designed specifically for removing soap scum or switch to a liquid soap instead of bar soap.
5. Foreign Objects
Finally, foreign objects like toys, jewelry, and other items accidentally dropped down the drain can cause serious clogs that require professional help to remove. To avoid this problem altogether, keep small objects away from bathroom sinks and consider using strainers or stoppers in all of your sinks
By understanding these five common causes of drain clogs and taking steps to prevent them from occurring in the first place, you can save yourself time and money on costly plumbing repairs down the line!