6 Things that Cause Clogged Drains

Discovering clogged drains can throw a wrench into your day, but tackling these issues doesn’t have to be daunting!

From grease buildup to pesky hair clogs, understanding the common culprits behind drain blockages and how to address them can save you headaches and plumbing mishaps.

Join us as we dive into the world of drain maintenance and drain cleaning, offering practical tips and solutions to keep your drains flowing freely and your plumbing in top shape.

Keep reading or reach out to the expert West Milford plumbers at Mark Lindsay and Son Plumbing & Heating for help with your drain issues or any plumbing concerns!

1) Soap Scum Blockages

Soap scum in drains leads to slow water flow and residue. Spot signs like water puddles and odd smells. DIY solutions like baking soda and vinegar or hot water might help mildly. Severe buildup? Get pros involved to prevent worsening clogs, keeping drains in top shape.

2) Grease Buildup

Kitchen drains often suffer from grease buildup, causing slow drainage and unpleasant smells. Pouring grease down sinks allows it to harden over time, narrowing pipes. If you notice slow drainage or greasy residue, avoid using hot water or vinegar mixes to dissolve recent grease. Older buildup might need professional help. Prevent grease disposal down drains to keep them clear and functioning smoothly.

3) Food Residue

Food residue often leads to kitchen drain clogs, even with a garbage disposal. Avoid putting grease, fats, fibrous foods like celery or potato peels, hard items like bones or pits, down the disposal. These can cause buildup, blockages, or damage the disposal’s mechanisms. Scraping excess food into the trash before rinsing dishes helps prevent clogs and maintains the disposal’s efficiency.

4) Hair Accumulation

Ever faced a slow shower drain due to hair clogs? They cause odors and sluggish water flow. Quick fixes like using baking soda and vinegar in hot water may ease minor clogs. For visible clumps, gloves and pliers or plunging can help. Persistent issues? Seeking pro assistance ensures a thorough fix, stopping future headaches.

5) Non-Flushable Items

Flushing non-flushable items, such as wipes, diapers, cotton balls, or excessive toilet paper, causes severe clogs. These items don’t break down easily and can accumulate, leading to stubborn blockages deep within the plumbing. Avoiding these items is essential to prevent backups and potential damage to your plumbing.

6) Tree Root Intrusion

Tree root intrusion into sewer or water lines is a serious problem that damages plumbing systems. As trees grow, their roots seek moisture and can infiltrate pipes, causing blockages, leaks, and pipe damage. Signs include water pressure drops or unusual pipe noises. Addressing suspected root issues promptly and seeking professional plumbers for inspections and solutions is vital to prevent further harm.

Need Assistance with Clogged Drains in New Jersey?

Struggling with clogs or seeking professional drain cleaning in West Milford, NJ, or nearby? Whether it’s a persistent issue or a potential warning sign, contact Mark Lindsay and Son for help today!