Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers

Blocked drains are a common problem that can cause a lot of inconvenience and frustration. They can lead to unpleasant odors, slow draining water, and even sewage backups. Understanding the common causes of blocked drains will help you prevent them in the first place.

Blocked drains can be caused by many reasons and, if left untreated, can cause costly damage to your home or business. These are the most common reasons for blocked drains, and how you can prevent them.

1. Foreign objects

Blocked drains can be caused by foreign objects like hair, food particles, soap residue and paper products. These substances stick to pipes and block water flow.

To prevent these blockages from occurring:

• Cooking oil should be disposed of in the trash, not the sink
• Avoid pouring leftover food debris or coffee grounds into the sink
• Install drain covers in sinks, bathtubs, and shower stalls to prevent hair from accumulating
• Use minimal toilet paper when flushing

2. Tree roots

Tree roots often grow toward water sources such as cracked pipes or pipe joints where they can infiltrate and eventually cause a complete blockage within the pipe.

To prevent tree root intrusion:

• Hire professionals to properly install pipes so they’re level
• Avoid planting trees near sewer lines

3. Grease buildup

Grease buildup is one of the most common causes of residential cookbook problems leading to blockages. Many people pour hot grease down their kitchen sink since it’s liquid form making it easily escapes from dishes but congeals quickly once it cools off deep inside your pipes causing stubborn clogs.

You can dispose of grease-laden oils and other greasy substances in your kitchen sink by emptying the trash into a garbage bin, rather than pouring it into your kitchen drainage system.

4. Structural damage

Cracked or collapsed pipes due to age, weather or changes in the soil can cause blocked drains. Signs of structural damage of pipes include:

• Slowly draining water
• Multiple blocked fixtures
• Mold growth
• Foundation cracks

To prevent structural damages:

• Regular inspections of your sewer lines with CCTV inspections are recommended so that professional repair companies can detect and correct any problems.

5. Incorrect pipe installation

Bad pipe design or incorrect installation can cause blocked drains. It is possible for large debris to build up in unreliable areas, causing blockages.

Hire professionals to install pipes correctly and make sure they meet all standards.

Conclusion

Blocked drains can lead to significant problems if ignored for long periods of time. To prevent blockages, take preventive measures such as hiring professionals to conduct regular maintenance checks and following plumbing code requirements when building. You can also place catch baskets in drain outlets or sinks to capture any debris that reaches the drainage system. Take care of your pipes today to ensure that they remain clear tomorrow and in years ahead.

Key takeaways

Here are some essential things you should remember after reading this article:

1. Foreign objects like hair, soap residue, paper products and food particles are common causes of Blocked Drains.
2. Tree roots growth toward water sources such as cracked pipes causing complete blockage within a pipe.
3. Blockages can be caused by grease buildup in your pipes.
4. Structural damages due to cracked or collapsed pipes due to age, weather or ground shifts impairing smooth flow of water.
5. An incorrect installation of pipes can leave tight bends that are susceptible to large debris, causing accumulation blockages. from the wastes that are going through the drainage system.
6. Instead of waiting for an emergency, hire only certified plumbers for routine check-ups.
7. Follow standard local plumbing codes during construction.
8. Place catch baskets on screen traps at outlets to capture any debris before it reaches the drainage system.

Additional Information

• The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
• How to Fix a Shower Drain: The Step-by-Step Fix Necessary
• Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
• The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Property Maintenance
• Catching Drain Issues Early: The Benefits of Scheduling Regular Inspections for Your Business