The Top Causes of Blocked Drains and Their Simple Solutions

Blocked drains are a common problem that can cause a lot of inconvenience and frustration. 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 can be caused by many reasons and, if left untreated, can cause costly damage to 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
- Install drain covers in sinks, bathtubs, and shower stalls to prevent hair from accumulating
- Use minimal toilet paper 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:
- Hire professionals to properly install pipes so they’re level
- Avoid planting trees next to sewer lines
3. Grease buildup
Blockages can be caused by grease buildup. Many people pour hot grease down their kitchen sink since it’s liquid form making it easily escapes from dishes but congeals quickly once it cools off deep inside your pipes causing stubborn clogs.
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
Cracked or collapsed pipes due to age, weather or changes in the soil can cause blocked drains. Signs of structural damage of pipes include:
- 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
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.
- Cracked or collapsed pipes caused by weather, age or ground shifts can cause structural damage that impair smooth water flow.
- Incorrect Pipe installations may leave very tight bends susceptible for large debris causing accumulative blockages. from the wastes that are going through the drainage system.
- Instead of waiting for an emergency, hire only certified plumbers for routine check-ups.
- 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
- Unblock Your Drains with Ease: Discover the Power of Blocked Drain Jetting
- A Comprehensive Overview of CCTV Drain Inspection for Your Home
- Unblock Your Drains with This Amazing DIY Guide That's Simple to Use
- The Risks of Unclogging Your Drains Without Professional Help
- Unblocking Your Drainage Pipes: The Best Plumbing Solutions