Why do I keep getting drain clogs in my house?

 

Main Reason for Drain Clogs in Your House

  Your drains clog because debris, grease, and other waste items build up in the pipes over time, blocking the normal flow of water. This buildup is similar to how a narrow passage becomes blocked if too many objects or substances accumulate in it.

 

How and Why These Clogs Occur

  When water runs through your pipes, it carries along all sorts of particles like hair, food remnants, soap scum, and grease. Over time, these substances stick to the inner walls of the pipes. They gradually build up and form a barrier that prevents water from flowing freely. If the flow slows down or stops, drainage becomes less effective, causing backups and clogs.

• Hair: Even small amounts of hair can bind together with soap and dust. Hair is not easily broken down, so it gradually accumulates in the bends and bends in the pipes.
• Grease and Oil: Cooking oils, fats, or grease when washed down the drain start to cool and solidify. This can cling to the internal surfaces of the pipes, narrowing the pathways for water.
• Food Particles: Bits of food, particularly from kitchen sinks, often contain starches and oils. These residues can combine with other debris and build up in the plumbing.
• Soap Residue: The residue left behind by soap does not always dissolve completely, leaving behind a film that hooks onto other particles, accelerating the clogging process.

 

Additional Factors Contributing to Clogs

  Your plumbing system can also experience clogs because of:

• Poor Drain Design: Twist and turns or narrow pipes provide more spots where debris can accumulate.
• Improper Disposal: Flushing non-dissolvable items like wipes or excessive food waste down the drain can cause blockages. Even items that claim to be "flushable" often do not break down as they should.
• Aging Pipes: Over time, pipes can corrode or accumulate scale, which further reduces the effective diameter of the pipe.

 

Why It Might Happen More Often in Your Home

  If you frequently experience clogs, the following might be in play:

• Lack of Regular Cleaning: If the drains are not periodically cleaned with safe, non-corrosive agents, buildup can become severe.
• Pipeline Configuration: Some homes have older plumbing systems that are more prone to trapping buildup.
• Water Pressure Issues: Lower water pressure may not be sufficient to carry debris through; this can happen if there is an issue with the municipal supply or due to sediment in automatic water softeners.

 

Practical Preventive Measures

  To reduce the chances of clogs, you might try these simple steps:

• Install drain strainers: These capture hair and larger particles before they go down the drain. Clean them regularly.
• Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain: Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.
• Be mindful of what is flushed: Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed in bathrooms.
• Regular maintenance: Use safe enzyme cleaners occasionally. Enzymes help break down organic materials without damaging your pipes.
• Consider professional cleaning: Even the best preventive measures sometimes need professional help. In areas like St. Louis and Nashville, experts can inspect your system and perform a thorough cleaning to remove stubborn buildup.

 

What to Do If You Already Have a Clog

  When dealing with an active clog, you can try these steps:

• Manual Removal: For a visible clog at the drain, remove the cover and clean out any debris manually before it goes further down the line.
• Plunger: A plunger can sometimes dislodge minor blockages by using pressure to push the clog through the pipes.
• Use a Drain Snake: A drain snake is a flexible tool designed to break through or pull out clogs deep inside the pipe. It is effective for many types of blockages.
• Professional Assistance: If these methods do not clear the clog, it might be necessary to call a professional plumber. Experts have specialized tools and experience to handle more stubborn blockages without damaging your plumbing.

 

Summary

  In short, drain clogs occur because small amounts of debris, grease, and other substances accumulate in your pipes over time. These simple buildup processes, along with factors like pipe design and aging infrastructure, make it easier for blockages to form. By understanding these factors, you can take proactive steps to keep your drains clear and maintain a healthy plumbing system.