Blocked drains are a common household issue that can cause significant inconvenience and potentially lead to serious damage if not addressed promptly. Understanding the common causes of blocked drains can help you take preventive measures to keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Here are the most frequent culprits behind blocked drains and some tips on how to avoid them.
1. Hair
Cause: Hair is one of the most common causes of blocked drains, especially in bathrooms. When hair accumulates in the drain, it can bind with soap scum and other debris, forming clogs that restrict water flow.
Prevention: Use drain guards to catch hair before it goes down the drain. Regularly clean the guards and remove any trapped hair. Consider brushing your hair before showering to minimize the amount that falls into the drain.
2. Grease and Fat
Cause: Kitchen drains often get clogged due to grease, fat, and oil. These substances can solidify inside the pipes, creating stubborn blockages.
Prevention: Avoid pouring grease, fat, or oil down the drain. Instead, let them cool and solidify, then dispose of them in the rubbish. Use a paper towel to wipe greasy pots and pans before washing them.
3. Food Waste
Cause: Food particles can build up in kitchen drains, especially if you don’t have a garbage disposal. Even with a garbage disposal, certain foods like coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous vegetables can cause clogs.
Prevention: Use a sink strainer to catch food particles and dispose of them in the rubbish. Avoid putting problematic foods down the garbage disposal and always run plenty of water when using it.
4. Soap Scum
Cause: Soap can combine with minerals in the water to form soap scum, which can build up in pipes and lead to blockages.
Prevention: Use soap-free or liquid soap alternatives to reduce soap scum buildup. Regularly clean your drains with a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar to help break down any accumulating scum.
5. Foreign Objects
Cause: Objects like cotton balls, wipes, sanitary products, and children's toys can accidentally get flushed down toilets or washed down sinks, leading to blockages.
Prevention: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Use a bin for all other bathroom waste. Ensure young children are supervised and taught what should not go down the drain.
6. Tree Roots
Cause: Tree roots can grow into and around underground pipes, causing significant blockages and even pipe damage. This is especially common in older plumbing systems.
Prevention: Be mindful of where trees are planted in relation to your plumbing system. If you suspect tree roots are causing blockages, contact a professional plumber who can use specialized equipment to clear the roots and assess any damage.
7. Mineral Buildup
Cause: Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can accumulate in your pipes, reducing water flow and causing blockages.
Prevention: Install a water softener to reduce mineral buildup. Regularly descale your pipes and appliances with appropriate cleaning solutions.
8. Toiletries
Cause: Items like wet wipes, facial tissues, and paper towels do not break down as easily as toilet paper and can cause blockages when flushed.
Prevention: Only flush toilet paper. Dispose of other items in the rubbish. Educate household members and guests on what can and cannot be flushed.
Conclusion
Blocked drains are a common but preventable issue. By being mindful of what goes down your drains and taking simple preventive measures, you can avoid the inconvenience and potential damage caused by blockages. Regular maintenance and mindful habits go a long way in keeping your plumbing system running smoothly.
If you do encounter a blocked drain, it's important to address it promptly. At Viva Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing and resolving all types of drain blockages. Our experienced plumbers can quickly identify the cause and implement effective solutions to restore your plumbing to optimal condition. Contact us today for expert assistance with any plumbing issue!
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