Common Causes of Clogged Drains and How to Prevent Them
Everyone knows that a clogged drain or pipe is not good, but understanding what causes these issues is a smart way to keep them from happening to you. From foreign objects that have been dropped down a drain to a heavy build-up of hair and gunk, there are many reasons why your pipes and drains may be slowing down or completely blocked.
A common cause of clogged drains is food scraps and other garbage being washed down the kitchen sink drain. It is important to always use a garbage disposal or compost bin to get rid of food waste, and to ensure that there is a cover over drains in the kitchen to prevent large amounts of food from falling down into the pipes.
Another common reason for clogged drains is grease, fat, and oils that are poured down the sink. These substances will stick to the inside lining of your pipes and harden, leading to a blockage that is difficult to remove. To avoid this, make sure that you dispose of melted fat and grease in a bin instead of down the drain, and wipe greasy or oily dishes with paper towels before washing them in the sink.
Soap residue is also a common cause of clogged drains, especially when it contains bits and pieces that break off during washing. This can be caused by bar soap, liquid soap, or even toothpaste. To prevent this, make sure that you are using a soap saver or dispenser, and that you are cleaning your drain strainers regularly to catch any hair or other debris.
Disposable wipes are another common cause of clogged toilets, showers, and bathtubs. These wipes are designed to be flushed down the toilet, but they often do not dissolve, and can form tough clogs in drains, toilets, and sewer lines. To avoid this, never flush baby wipes, makeup, or cleaning wipes down the drain, and always throw these items in the trash or in a waste bin.
Mineral deposits and sediment are another common cause of clogged drains, particularly in homes with hard water. This is due to the minerals in the water reacting with wet and dry environments, forming a build-up on the inside of your pipes. This is a problem that can be prevented by having a water softener installed in your home, or by running hot water through all of your drains on a regular basis to help flush out the system.
A final common cause of clogged drains is dirt and mud that has been washed down the drain from the garden, or from being tracked into the house by children or pets. To avoid this, try to limit the amount of dirt that enters your drains, and always run a full wash cycle when you are washing dirty clothes. You should also run a hot water cycle in the drains on a regular basis to clear away any accumulated grit or grime.