A clogged drain is one of the most common — and frustrating — plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a completely backed-up shower, these problems always seem to pop up at the most inconvenient times. But what causes drain clogs, and more importantly, what can you do to prevent and fix them?
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Common Causes of Drain Clogs
Hair Buildup In bathroom sinks and showers, hair is often the number one culprit. Over time, it accumulates inside the pipes, combining with soap scum and forming stubborn clogs that are difficult to remove without professional help.
Grease and Fat In kitchen drains, grease and fat from cooking can solidify in the pipes. Even if you rinse it with hot water, once it cools, it hardens and sticks to the pipe walls — eventually creating a blockage.
Soap Scum and Residue Many commercial soaps contain fats or oils that combine with minerals in the water, forming a thick residue. This soap scum can narrow your pipes over time and trap other debris, leading to clogs.
Foreign Objects Kids’ toys, hygiene products, or even large food scraps can accidentally make their way into your drain. These items can cause immediate blockages and sometimes even damage your plumbing system.
Tree Roots For exterior drains and sewer lines, tree roots can infiltrate pipes through tiny cracks, eventually causing serious blockages and even pipe collapse.
What Can You Do About It?
While minor clogs can often be cleared with a plunger or a store-bought drain cleaner, persistent or recurring clogs usually indicate a deeper issue. Here’s what you can do:
Use a Drain Guard: These inexpensive tools catch hair and debris before they enter your pipes.
Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain: Dispose of grease in a separate container and throw it in the trash once it solidifies.
Flush Drains Regularly: Pour boiling water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drains weekly to help prevent buildup.
Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain: Educate your family about what can and cannot go down the sink or toilet.
Call a Professional: If home remedies aren’t cutting it, it’s time to call a professional.
If you’re dealing with stubborn or frequent clogs, reaching out to a local expert like a Plumber Bourne, Texas professional can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.
Why Choose Pulliam Plumbing?
When it comes to reliable plumbing services in Boerne and the surrounding areas, Pulliam Plumbing Bourne is a trusted name. With over 15 years of experience, they offer comprehensive drain cleaning and plumbing services, including emergency repairs. Their licensed professionals use advanced tools and techniques to diagnose and resolve even the most complicated clogs efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Clogged drains are more than just a nuisance — they can lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. By understanding the causes and taking preventive action, you can keep your drains flowing freely. And when problems arise, don’t hesitate to call in the experts.
Elena Mohr is a dedicated home blogger who has been blogging for over six years. She covers everything home related. Elena also loves writing posts about her travels to Europe with her husband and two children.
