Common Causes of Clogged Drains and How to Fix Them
July 29, 2024
Clogged drains are a common household problem that can lead to significant inconvenience and potential damage if not addressed promptly. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up toilet, or a garburator issue, understanding the causes and solutions for clogged drains can save you time and money.
In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of clogged drains and how professional plumbing services in Calgary can help resolve these issues effectively.
1. Food Waste and Grease Buildup
Common Causes
One of the most frequent causes of clogged kitchen drains is food waste and grease accumulation. While garburators are designed to handle small amounts of food debris, they can become overwhelmed if used excessively.
When cooking, fats and oils are often poured down the drain, which can solidify as they cool, creating stubborn blockages. Additionally, small food particles that are not broken down properly by the garburator can accumulate and contribute to the clog.
Professional Solutions
To prevent food waste and grease buildup, use your garburator sparingly and avoid disposing of large amounts of food at once. Regularly running hot water and dish soap down the drain can help dissolve grease.
For persistent clogs, professional plumbing services in Calgary can provide thorough drain cleaning using specialized equipment to break down and remove grease and food particles. They can also offer maintenance tips to keep your drains clear and functioning efficiently.
2. Hair And Soap Scum
Common Causes
In toilets, hair and soap scum are the primary culprits of clogged drains. Hair can easily get caught in the drain and combine with soap scum, creating a thick, stubborn blockage that slows or completely obstructs water flow.
This is particularly common in showers and bathroom sinks, where hair shedding and soap use are frequent. Over time, the buildup can become significant enough to block the drain entirely.
Professional Solutions
Installing drain guards can help catch hair before it enters the drain. Regularly cleaning these guards can prevent build-up. For existing clogs, professional plumbers use tools such as drain snakes and hydro-jetting to effectively clear out hair and soap scum without damaging your pipes.
Hydro-jetting involves using high-pressure water to remove buildup and restore proper drainage. Additionally, they can recommend preventative measures to minimize the risk of future clogs.
3. Toilet Paper And Hygiene Products
Common Causes
Toilets can become clogged when excessive amounts of toilet paper or non-flushable items such as wet wipes, sanitary products, and paper towels are flushed. These materials do not dissolve easily and can block the plumbing, leading to a backed-up toilet.
Even products labelled as “flushable” can cause issues, as they do not break down as quickly as toilet paper and can accumulate in the pipes.
Professional Solutions
To prevent clogs, only flush toilet paper and human waste. Dispose of other hygiene products in the trash. If you experience a clog, professional plumbing services in Calgary can use augers and other specialized tools to clear the blockage and restore proper flow.
Augers are particularly effective for toilet clogs, as they can navigate the curves of the plumbing and break up the obstruction. Plumbers can also provide advice on proper disposal practices to prevent future clogs.
4. Tree Roots Infiltration
Common Causes
Tree roots can infiltrate underground pipes, especially if there are any cracks or weak spots. The roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients in the pipes and can grow into them, causing severe blockages and even pipe damage.
This is a common issue for homes with older plumbing systems or those located near large trees. The roots can enter through small cracks or joints in the pipes and expand over time, leading to significant blockages.
Professional Solutions
If you suspect tree roots are clogging your drains, professional plumbers can perform a camera inspection to identify the problem. They may then use rooter machines to cut through the roots and remove the blockage.
In severe cases, pipe replacement may be necessary to prevent future issues. Professional plumbers can also recommend ways to prevent root infiltration, such as installing root barriers or using root-killing chemicals.
5. Mineral Buildup
Common Causes
Hard water, which has a high mineral content, can lead to mineral buildup inside your pipes. Over time, this buildup narrows the pipes and restricts water flow, resulting in clogs.
This is particularly common in areas with hard water, where calcium and magnesium deposits can accumulate in the plumbing. The buildup can reduce the efficiency of your plumbing system and increase the risk of clogs.
Professional Solutions
Water softeners can help reduce mineral buildup by treating the hard water before it enters your plumbing system. For existing clogs, professional plumbers can use descaling agents and specialized tools to remove mineral deposits and restore proper flow.
Descaling involves using chemical solutions to dissolve the mineral buildup and flush it out of the pipes. Plumbers can also provide advice on maintaining your plumbing system to prevent future buildup.
6. Foreign Objects
Common Causes
Foreign objects such as small toys, jewelry, and other debris can accidentally enter drains and cause blockages. This is particularly common in homes with young children, where small items can easily be dropped down sinks or toilets.
These objects can become lodged in the plumbing, creating significant blockages that restrict water flow.
Professional Solutions
Prevent foreign objects from entering drains by using drain covers and being mindful of what goes down your sinks and toilets. If a foreign object does cause a clog, professional plumbing services in Calgary can use retrieval tools to remove the object and clear the drain.
These tools are designed to navigate the plumbing and safely extract the object without causing damage. Plumbers can also provide tips on keeping your drains clear and preventing future blockages.
7. Garburator Issues
Common Causes
Garburators can malfunction or become clogged if they are overloaded or if inappropriate items such as bones, fibrous vegetables, or grease are disposed of in them. These items can damage the blades and create blockages that restrict the garburator’s ability to function properly.
Overloading the garburator can also cause it to jam and prevent it from effectively breaking down food waste.
Professional Solutions
To prevent garburator issues, avoid overloading it and only dispose of suitable food waste. Regular maintenance and proper use can keep your garburator functioning efficiently.
If you encounter problems, professional plumbers can provide garburator repair and maintenance services to ensure smooth operation. They can also offer advice on proper garburator use and maintenance to prevent future issues.
Why Choose Professional Plumbing Services Calgary?
Expertise and Experience
Professional plumbers in Calgary have the expertise and experience to diagnose and resolve a wide range of plumbing issues. They use advanced tools and techniques to ensure efficient and effective solutions for clogged drains and other plumbing problems.
Time And Cost Savings
Attempting to fix clogged drains on your own can often lead to more significant issues and higher costs in the long run. Professional plumbers can quickly and accurately identify the cause of the clog and provide a permanent solution, saving you time and money.
Comprehensive Services
From clogged drains and garburator repairs to faucet installations and outdoor faucet repairs, professional plumbing services in Calgary offer comprehensive solutions for all your plumbing needs.
They can handle both routine maintenance and emergency repairs, ensuring your plumbing system operates smoothly year-round.
About Us
Jack’d Up Plumbing is a leading provider of residential plumbing services in Calgary. We specialize in addressing a wide range of plumbing issues, from clogged drains to faucet repairs and garburator installations. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering high-quality services with a focus on customer satisfaction.
With our expertise and commitment to excellence, you can trust us to handle all your plumbing needs efficiently and effectively.
If you’re experiencing clogged drains or other plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to contact Jack’d Up Plumbing. Let our skilled professionals provide the solutions you need to keep your plumbing system in top condition.