The Top Causes of Blocked Drains and Their Simple Solutions
Blocked drains can be a frustrating problem and cause many inconveniences. They can lead to unpleasant odors, slow draining water, and even sewage backups. Understanding the common causes of blocked drains will help you prevent them in the first place.
Blocked drains are caused by different reasons, and if not adequately addressed, can lead to costly repairs for your home or business. These are the most common reasons for blocked drains, and how you can prevent them.
1. Foreign objects
Blocked drains can be caused by foreign objects like hair, food particles, soap residue and paper products. These substances stick to pipes and block water flow.
To prevent these blockages from occurring:
- Cooking oil should be disposed of in the trash, not the sink
- Do not pour coffee grounds or leftover food into the sink
- To prevent hair accumulation, install drain covers in bathtubs, sinks, and shower stalls
- Toilet paper should be used sparingly when flushing
2. Tree roots
Tree roots often grow toward water sources such as cracked pipes or pipe joints where they can infiltrate and eventually cause a complete blockage within the pipe.
To prevent tree root intrusion
- Professionals can install pipes properly so that they are level.
- Avoid planting trees near sewer lines
3. Grease buildup
Blockages can be caused by grease buildup. Hot grease is often poured down the kitchen sink. It’s liquid form allows it to escape from dishes, but it congeals quickly once it cools and gets deep within your pipes, causing blockages.
To avoid grease buildup in your kitchen sink dispose off all greasy wast like cook oils via trash bin instead pouring it down into your kitchen drainage system.
4. Structural damage
Blocked drains can be caused by cracked or collapsed pipes, whether they are due to weather changes or age. Signs of structural damage of pipes include:
- Slowly draining water
- Multiple blocked fixtures
- Mold growth
- Foundation cracks
To prevent structural damages:
- Regular inspections of your sewer lines with CCTV inspections are recommended so that professional repair companies can detect and correct any problems.
5. Incorrect pipe installation
Incorrect pipe installation or poor design can also contribute to blocked drains as it sometimes leaves very tight bends in unscrupulous areas where large debris easily form blockages from accumulated waste.
Hire professionals to install pipes correctly and make sure they meet all standards.
Conclusion
Blocked drains can lead to significant problems if ignored for long periods of time. To prevent blockages, take preventive measures such as hiring professionals to conduct regular maintenance checks and following plumbing code requirements when building. You can also place catch baskets in drain outlets or sinks to capture any debris that reaches the drainage system. To ensure your pipes are clear for years to come, take care of them today.
Key takeaways
Here are some essential things you should remember after reading this article:
- Foreign objects like hair, soap residue, paper products and food particles are common causes of Blocked Drains.
- Tree roots growth toward water sources such as cracked pipes causing complete blockage within a pipe.
- Blockages can be caused by grease buildup in your pipes.
- Structural damages due to cracked or collapsed pipes due to age, weather or ground shifts impairing smooth flow of water.
- An incorrect installation of pipes can leave tight bends that are susceptible to large debris, causing accumulation blockages. from the wastes that are going through the drainage system.
- Hire only qualified-professionals plumbers for regular check ups instead of waiting for emergencies.
- Follow standard local plumbing codes during construction.
- Place catch baskets on screen traps at outlets to capture any debris before it reaches the drainage system.
Additional Information
- Discover the optimal plumber for your backed up drain emergency
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
- A Quick and Easy Fix for Blocked Sinks and Showers
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services