10 Surprising Causes of Blocked Drains and How to Prevent Them

10 Surprising Causes of Blocked Drains and How to Prevent Them Blocked drains could be a major inconvenience in virtually any home. They may lead to foul odors, water backup, and even potential harm to your plumbing system. While it may be appealing to reach for the plunger or contact a professional for help, it�s important to understand the causes of blocked drains and how to prevent them. Remarkably, some common household items and methods may end up being the culprits behind your clogged pipes. In this article, we will explore 10 surprising causes of blocked drains and provide proactive ideas to keep your plumbing flowing effortlessly. 1. Cooking food Grease: Pouring oil or grease down the drain may seem easy in the minute, but it can cause a main blockage over period. Grease solidifies as it cools, creating a sticky accumulation in your pipes. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, consider using a covered container for disposal or allow it to solidify and then scrape it into the trash. 2.  https://plumbershollandpark.co.uk Locks: Long strands of locks easily get tangled jointly and combine with various other substances in your drains, causing in a stubborn blockage. To prevent locks from clogging your pipes, use a drain cover or screen to catch loose strands. Regularly remove any collected locks to prevent buildup. 3. Flushable Wipes: Despite their name, flushable wipes should not really be flushed down the toilet. Unlike bathroom paper, these wipes do not really break down quickly and may accumulate, leading to blockages in both toilets and sewer lines. Dispose of flushable wipes in the trash rather. 4. Oral Floss: While oral floss may appear harmless, it can be not biodegradable and may become entwined with other debris in your pipes. As a result, it may create tangled blockages that are difficult to remove. Dispose of dental care floss in the trash to avoid potential drain issues. 5. Espresso Grounds: Coffee grounds may appear harmless, but they can quickly accumulate in your drains and create a sludgy clutter. Avoid pouring espresso grounds down the sink by using a mesh strainer or simply tossing them in the garbage. 6. Soap Scum: Cleaning soap scum may seem like a natural byproduct of washing, but it can contribute to blocked drains. Over period, soap scum may build up in your pipes and create a sticky barrier that traps additional substances. Frequently clean your drains and make use of a cleaning soap scum remover to prevent buildup. 7. Tree Root base: It may arrive as a surprise, but tree roots can end up being a main cause of blocked drains. Over period, tree roots may invade and crack your underground pipes, leading to clogs and leaks. To prevent tree root damage, avoid planting trees too close to your sewer lines and consider regular inspections to catch any issues early on. Now that you have a better understanding of the amazing causes of blocked drains, it�s crucial to take proactive procedures to prevent them. By implementing these tips, you can reduce the risk of clogs and keep your plumbing program in best condition. In this next section, we will further explore preventative methods for common causes of blocked drains: 8. Meals Scraps: Leftover food can easily find its method into your drains, leading to unpleasant and hard-to-remove blockages. Instead of rinsing plates directly in the kitchen sink, scrape food scraps into the trash or compost bin before washing meals. Using a kitchen sink strainer can also help capture any stray food particles. 9. Mineral Buildup: Hard drinking water can business lead to mineral buildup in your pipes, ensuing in reduced drinking water stream and eventual clogs. Consider setting up a water softener to decrease mineral articles and regularly clean your faucets and showerheads to prevent accumulation. 10. Small Items: Accidentally falling small objects like toys, jewelry, or bottle caps down the drain can be not unusual but can trigger serious blockages. Stay vigilant and keep an vision out for any products that may accidentally fall into the sink or toilet. If an object will move down the drain, avoid using it until the object is definitely safely eliminated. 11. Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items: Flushing non-biodegradable items down the bathroom can be a surefire way to trigger blocked drains. Items such as feminine cleanliness items, cotton swabs, and baby wipes should generally be disposed of in the trash to avoid potential clogs. 12. Overgrown Backyard: If your outdoor drains appear to be regularly blocked, an overgrown garden could be to blame. Leaves, branches, and additional debris can easily clog outdoor drains. Regularly clean out any particles and trim back plant life to prevent blockages. 13. Faulty Plumbing related Installations: Poorly installed or outdated domestic plumbing systems can be another surprising cause of blocked drains. Old pipes may corrode and collapse, leading to serious blockages. Ensure your domestic plumbing is regularly inspected and up to date by a professional to prevent potential problems. As you can see, blocked drains may have various amazing causes, from cooking grease and hair to tree root base and faulty plumbing installations. By getting proactive and implementing preventative procedures, you can prevent the hassle and expense of dealing with blocked drains in your home. Remember to stay vigilant in your daily habits and regularly maintain your plumbing related system to maintain everything flowing efficiently.