Outsmart Your Clogs: Top 5 Causes and How to Avoid Them

Drain clogs are a frustrating and common issue in any home or building with plumbing. They can disrupt the flow of daily life by creating slow drainage, standing water, and unpleasant odours. 

Depending on the severity of the clog, it may even lead to water damage or flooding, which can cause significant inconvenience and expense.

The inconvenience caused by drain clogs can be felt in various areas of daily life. For instance, slow drainage in the kitchen sink may cause water to accumulate, making it difficult to wash dishes or prepare food. Similarly, a clogged shower drain can result in standing water, making it difficult to bathe or shower comfortably. In extreme cases, a clog in the toilet can cause sewage backup and a potential health hazard.

Moreover, drain clogs can also be an unwelcome source of foul odours in the home, creating a highly unpleasant living environment. This can be especially problematic in bathrooms and kitchens, where bad smells can be especially noticeable.

Drain clogs can be costly and time-consuming, but by understanding the common causes, you can take proactive measures to prevent damage and avoid costly repairs to your plumbing system. Below are the top 5 most common culprits of drain clogs and how to avoid them.

1. Hair

Hair is a primary culprit of drain clogs, especially in showers and bathroom sinks. Use a drain protector or strainer to prevent hair from entering the drain. This will catch hair before it enters the drain and makes them easy to remove.

2. Soap scum

Soap scum can accumulate in drains over time and create blockages. It’s formed when soap mixes with hard water, forming a residue that can cling to pipes and create buildup.

One way to prevent soap scum buildup is to use less soap when washing dishes, clothes, or yourself. Too much soap can create an excess residue that can accumulate in your pipes and lead to clogs.

To prevent soap scum from building up in your drain, you may also want to consider using a homemade or store-bought drain cleaner once a month. You can make a simple, natural cleaner by combining baking soda and vinegar, which can help break down any buildup in your pipes.

3. Grease and fat

Grease and fat can solidify in pipes and cause blockages. Never throw grease or fat down the drain. Instead, pour them into a container and chuck them in the trash. 

Running hot water for a few seconds after using your sink or shower may help as when hot water flows through the drain, it melts any grease or fats that may have accumulated, breaking them down and allowing them to be flushed away. This can help prevent these materials from solidifying and causing blockages in the pipes.

It’s important to note that hot water should only be used for pipes that can withstand high temperatures. For example, hot water may damage PVC pipes, so it’s essential to check with a plumber or the manufacturer of your pipes to determine the recommended temperature range.

4. Food waste

Food waste can also cause drain clogs, especially in kitchen sinks. Install a garbage disposal or drain strainer to prevent food waste from entering the drain. This will catch food waste before it enters the drain and can be easily removed.

5. Foreign objects

Foreign objects such as toys, jewelry, and other small items can accidentally fall into drains and cause clogs. To avoid this, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet and be mindful of what goes down the drain. If you suspect a foreign object is blocking the drain, check for it and remove it if possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, drain clogs can be a nuisance, but you can avoid them with the proper preventative measures. Methods to avoid clogs include using a drain strainer, disposing of food waste appropriately, running hot water, and scheduling regular plumbing maintenance. These steps can help keep your drains clear and your plumbing functioning at its best.

For all your emergency plumbing needs, call Bromac Mechanical now! Our team of experienced and certified technicians are available 24/7 to provide you with fast and reliable service. With competitive rates and same-day service, you can be sure that your plumbing problems will be solved quickly and efficiently. Don’t wait any longer, call Bromac now for your emergency plumbing needs!