Common Causes of Drain Clogs and How to Avoid Them

Common Causes of Drain Clogs and How to Avoid Them: Keep Your Pipes Flowing Freely

Drain clogs are a common household problem that can be both frustrating and costly. Whether it's a slow drain in the bathroom sink or a completely blocked toilet, a clogged drain can disrupt your daily routine and even cause serious damage to your plumbing system. Fortunately, many drain clogs can be easily prevented with a little bit of know-how. In this post, we'll discuss the most common causes of drain clogs and provide tips on how to avoid them.

Cause 1: Hair
Hair is one of the most common causes of drain clogs, especially in the bathroom. When you wash your hair, loose strands can get caught in the drain and accumulate over time, creating a clog. To avoid this, try using a drain cover or hair catcher to catch loose hair before it goes down the drain. You can also try brushing your hair before showering to remove any loose strands.

Cause 2: Food Scraps
Food scraps are another common cause of drain clogs, especially in the kitchen sink. Bits of food can get caught in the drain and create a buildup over time, leading to a clog. To avoid this, be sure to scrape your plates and bowls into the trash or compost bin before rinsing them in the sink. You can also use a strainer or drain cover to catch any bits of food that might escape.

Cause 3: Grease and Oil
Grease and oil are some of the worst culprits of drain clogs, as they can solidify in your pipes and create a stubborn blockage. To avoid this, never pour grease or oil down the drain. Instead, let it cool and solidify in a container, then dispose of it in the trash. You can also wipe down greasy pots and pans with a paper towel before washing them to remove any excess grease.

Cause 4: Soap Scum
Soap scum is a buildup of soap and mineral deposits that can accumulate in your pipes over time, leading to a clog. To avoid this, try using a natural soap or a soap-free cleanser. You can also rinse your pipes with hot water once a week to help dissolve any soap scum buildup.

Cause 5: Foreign Objects
Foreign objects like toys, jewelry, and even small household items can find their way into your drains and cause a clog. To avoid this, be mindful of what you're putting down your drains. Keep small items out of reach of children and be careful when washing small objects like jewelry or contact lenses.

Conclusion:
By understanding the most common causes of drain clogs, you can take steps to prevent them from happening in the first place. Whether it's using a drain cover to catch hair or being mindful of what you're putting down the sink, a little bit of prevention can go a long way in keeping your pipes flowing freely. So the next time you're tempted to pour that bacon grease down the drain, remember: a clog-free drain is worth the extra effort.

Common Causes of Drain Clogs and How to Avoid Them Written by Tony's Drain & Sewer Cleaning

At Tony’s Drain & Sewer Cleaning, we are here to help you prevent and solve sewer blockages and avoid sewer backups in your home.

• Sewer Cleaning Services
• Sewer System Repair Services
• Sewer Line Tracing Services
• Descaling Services
• Hydro Jetting Services
• Camera Scoping Services
• Commercial Services
• Power Rodding Services

Don’t let sewer blockages cause problems for your home. Contact Tony’s Drain & Sewer Cleaning today at (630) 596-7712 or visit us at 4100 IL-71, Oswego, IL 60543. You can also email us at tony@tonysdrain.com for more information on our services.