We’ve all been there – standing ankle-deep in a pool of water in the shower, desperately trying to figure out why the water won’t drain properly. Blocked drains are a common household problem that can be frustrating and downright gross. But fear not! There are several common causes of blocked drains, and luckily, most of them can be easily prevented with a little know-how.
One of the most common causes of blocked drains is simply a buildup of hair and soap scum. When we shower or wash our hands, hair can easily get caught in the drain, along with soap residues that can harden over time and create a blockage. To prevent this from happening, it’s a good idea to invest in a drain cover or hair catcher to stop hair from going down the drain in the first place. Regularly cleaning out the drain and using a pipe cleaning solution can also help to prevent blockages from occurring.
Another common culprit for blocked drains is food waste. Many people are guilty of rinsing greasy or starchy foods down the kitchen sink, which can quickly lead to a buildup of gunk in the pipes. To prevent this, try to scrape off as much food waste as possible into the trash before rinsing dishes in the sink. Investing in a sink strainer can also help to catch food particles before they clog up the drain. Additionally, running hot water down the drain regularly can help to break up any buildup that may be forming.
Believe it or not, flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet is another common cause of blocked drains. Items such as wet wipes, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products can quickly accumulate in the pipes and cause a blockage. To prevent this from happening, only flush toilet paper down the toilet and dispose of other items in the trash. Educating children and houseguests about what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet can also help to prevent blockages.
Tree roots are another sneaky cause of blocked drains that many people may not consider. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients in sewer lines and can quickly infiltrate the pipes, causing a blockage. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to plant trees and shrubs away from sewer lines and regularly inspect and maintain your sewer system for any signs of root intrusion. If you suspect that tree roots may be causing a blockage, it’s best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
A final common cause of blocked drains is mineral buildup. Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can accumulate in pipes and create a blockage over time. To prevent mineral buildup, consider installing a water softener to reduce the mineral content in your water. Regularly cleaning out your drains with a pipe cleaning solution can also help to prevent mineral buildup from occurring.
In conclusion, blocked drains are a common household problem that can be easily prevented with a little knowledge and some proactive measures. By being mindful of what goes down the drain, regularly cleaning out the pipes, and maintaining your sewer system, you can help to prevent blockages from occurring and keep your drains flowing smoothly. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and provide expert advice on how to address the issue. With a little care and attention, you can avoid the frustration and hassle of dealing with blocked drains and keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape.
