As a homeowner, one of the last things you want to deal with is a clogged drain. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. This blog post will discuss five common items that can clog your drain and provide tips on how to prevent them from causing any issues.
Hair
One of the most common culprits of clogged drains is hair. As you wash your hair in the shower or brush it over the sink, strands can easily become detached and find their way into your drains. Once hair makes its way into your drain, it doesn't just disappear. Instead, it begins to collect and form a stubborn blockage that slows down drainage and eventually leads to a full-blown clog. This buildup can happen quickly if you're not proactive about cleaning out your drains regularly. To prevent this, consider using a drain strainer to catch any loose hairs before they go down the drain.
Grease
Grease may start off as a liquid when hot, but as it cools down, it solidifies into a sticky substance that clings to the walls of your pipes. Over time, this buildup can accumulate and restrict water flow, leading to clogs that are difficult to remove. This not only affects the affected drain but can also impact other connected pipes in your plumbing system, causing blockages that result in overflows and backups. This not only poses a health hazard but also creates costly repairs for municipalities that have to clear out the clogs. The best way to prevent grease from clogging your drains is by never pouring it down any sink or toilet. Instead, pour it into a container and dispose of them in the trash.
Food Scraps
When you wash food scraps down the drain, they can accumulate and form a sticky residue that coats the inside of your pipes. Over time, this residue can build up and cause a blockage in your drains, leading to slow drainage or even complete clogs. Common culprits include coffee grounds, eggshells, and vegetable peels. One of the best ways to prevent food scraps from clogging your drain is to use a sink strainer or stopper. These inexpensive devices catch food particles before they have a chance to go down the drain.
Paper Products
Flushing paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or baby wipes down the toilet may seem like an easy solution, but these items do not break down as easily as toilet paper and can quickly clog your pipes. Stick to flushing only toilet paper to avoid any potential issues.
Soap Scum
Over time, soap scum can build up in your pipes and contribute to clogs. To prevent this from happening, regularly clean your drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or invest in a commercial drain cleaner specifically designed to break down soap scum buildup.
Drain Cleaning Services
If you find yourself dealing with a stubborn clog that won't budge no matter what you try, consider hiring a drain cleaning service provider like John's Sewer and Drain Cleaning. Drain cleaning technicians have the tools and techniques to effectively remove even the toughest blockages without causing any damage to your pipes.
By being mindful of what goes down your drains and taking proactive measures to prevent clogs, you can save yourself from potential headaches and expenses in the future. Remember that prevention is key when it comes to maintaining healthy plumbing systems in your home. If you ever find yourself facing a particularly tough clog that you can't handle on your own, don't hesitate to reach out for professional assistance from a reliable drain cleaning service.
