Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
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 materials stick together inside pipes forming a blockage that prevents water flow.
These blockages can be prevented by:
- Cooking oil should be disposed of in the trash, not the sink
- Avoid pouring leftover food debris or coffee grounds 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 can often be found growing toward cracked pipes and pipe joints, where they can infiltrate the pipe and eventually block it completely.
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.
You can dispose of grease-laden oils and other greasy substances in your kitchen sink by emptying the trash into a garbage bin, rather than pouring it 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. The following are signs of pipe damage:
- Slowly draining water
- Multiple blocked fixtures
- Mold growth
- Foundation cracks
To prevent structural damages:
- Get your sewer lines inspected regularly with the help of CCTV inspections so that professional repair company could detect any issues and fix it immediately.
5. Incorrect pipe installation
Bad pipe design or incorrect installation can cause blocked drains. It is possible for large debris to build up in unreliable areas, causing blockages.
To prevent such occurrences, hire professionals to properly install pipes and ensure the pipes meet the recommended standards for sizes and torques.
Conclusion
If left unattended, blocked drains can cause serious problems. 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. Take care of your pipes today to ensure that they remain clear tomorrow and in years ahead.
The key takeaways
These are the most important things to remember after you have read 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.
- Cracked or collapsed pipes caused by weather, age or ground shifts can cause structural damage that impair smooth water flow.
- An incorrect installation of pipes can leave tight bends that are susceptible to large debris, causing accumulation blockages. from wastes going through drainage system.
- Instead of waiting for an emergency, hire only certified plumbers for routine check-ups.
- Follow standard local plumbing codes during construction.
- To capture debris that does not reach the drainage system, place catch baskets on screens traps.
Additional Information
- CCTV Drain Inspection: A Detailed Guide on What It Is and How It Works
- Prevent Drain Blockages Immediately: A Homeowner's Handbook
- Save Money with These Simple Drain Maintenance Techniques
- Stop Blockages Before They Happen: 10 Ways to Prevent Clogged Drains
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
