Clogged drains are a common and frustrating occurrence in both residential and commercial settings. Water backs up in the sink, tub, or shower, making it difficult to use the fixture, and no amount of plunging appears to make a difference. In addition, clogged drains often emit an unpleasant odor. There are a number of reasons that drains become clogged.
1. Soap Scum
Over time, soap scum can build up in your drains, causing them to become clogged. Soap scum comprises oils, sweat, skin cells, soap molecules, and minerals left behind when water evaporates. These molecules and minerals can attach to the insides of the pipes, forming a thick, sticky film that can catch hair, food particles, and other debris. As more and more debris becomes trapped in the soap scum, it can begin to block the drain.
In many cases, the best way to remove the soap scum is to call a professional plumber. Southport Home Services in Wausau can help remove soap scum and debris from your drains, ensuring that they remain clear and free-flowing. We also offer regular maintenance contracts that include drain cleaning, so you can rest assured that your drains will always be in good working order.
2. Hair
The buildup of hair in drains is a common problem that can lead to severe consequences. When hair accumulates in a drain, it creates a barrier that prevents water from flowing freely. As a result, water can begin to back up in the pipe, eventually leading to a clog.
In addition to causing plumbing problems, clogged drains can also lead to health hazards. When water cannot flow through a drain, it can provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. These microorganisms are released into the air, posing a severe health risk. In severe cases, the build-up of hair can cause sewage to back into your home, leading to an unpleasant and unsanitary situation.
3. Grease and Oil
Cooking grease and oil can solidify in the drain over time, leading to a clog. When these substances are poured down the drain, they adhere to the sides of the pipe and gradually build up. Eventually, the buildup will become so severe that it will block the flow of water completely. This can cause significant problems for homeowners and businesses, resulting in wastewater backup and costly repairs.
4. Toys and Other Small Objects
The most common causes of blocked drainage pipes are toys and other small objects. In homes with young children, it’s common for small items to find their way into toilets, sinks, and drainage pipes. As these items become lodged in the pipe, they can block the water flow and cause serious backups. The safest way to remove the blockage that is more than an inch or two down is to call a professional plumber. In attempting to get the object out by yourself, you may push it further in and compound the situation.
5. Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is among the most common causes of blocked drainage pipes. Although it is designed to break down in the water, toilet paper can cause severe problems in your plumbing system, especially if you flush too much at once. When flushed, toilet paper can clump together and block water flow through your pipes. In addition, the paper can absorb water from the sewage system and expand, causing even more blockages. It is, therefore, vital to be mindful of what you flush down your toilet and only use as much TP as you need. If you have any concerns about your plumbing, contact a qualified professional for help.
6. Feminine Hygiene Products
Most people are unaware that feminine hygiene products can lead to blocked drainage pipes. These products are made of materials designed to absorb fluids; over time, they can create a build-up in the pipes. This can eventually cause a blockage, leading to sewage and dirty water backup. In addition, the material build-up can create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Flushing these items down the toilet is never a good idea.
7. Tree Roots
When you think about tree roots, you might picture them growing deep into the ground, anchoring the tree. However, tree roots can also grow upwards, and if they find their way into a sewer line, they can cause severe damage. Over time, the roots will grow bigger and bigger, exerting more and more pressure on the pipe and eventually causing it to crack or break. Once the roots have infiltrated the pipe, they can quickly block drainage, leading to sewage backups and flooding, and they can even cause the pipe to collapse. If you suspect that tree roots are damaging your sewer line, you must call a professional for help. They will be able to inspect the pipe and determine the best course of action.
8 . Pipe Corrosion
Corrosion is a common issue in plumbing and can cause many problems, such as a clogged drain. When corrosion builds up inside pipes, it can create a small ledge that catches debris. Over time, this litter can build up and create a blockage. Additionally, corrosion can make pipes more brittle and susceptible to breakage. If a pipe breaks, it can lead to a severe clog. Therefore, keeping an eye on your pipes for signs of corrosion is essential. If you notice any corroded areas, you should have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
9. Heavy Rain and Storms
Heavy rainfall and storms can cause clogs by overwhelming the system with too much water too quickly. This can cause leaves and other organic matter to be swept into the drain, where it can then become trapped and cause a blockage. In addition, storms can wash away or damage parts of the drain system, causing breaks that can lead to clogs. As a result, it’s essential to be aware of the potential for clogs after heavy rain or storm.
10. Poor Installation
When drains are not installed properly, they can become blocked by debris or even collapse. This can cause water to back up in the pipes and lead to a clogged drain. In addition, poor installation can also cause leaks, allowing water to seep into the surrounding soil and eventually lead to a clogged drain. If you discover that your drain is not installed correctly, you must contact a professional plumber to have it inspected and repaired.
11. Baby Wipes
Baby wipes can be one of the leading causes of clogged drains. This is because they are made of plastics and other synthetic materials that don’t break down easily in water. When the baby wipes are flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink, they can quickly accumulate and block sewer lines and other drainage systems.
12. Low-flow Toilet
Low-flow toilets are an ideal way to save water, but they are also a common cause of clogged drains. The purpose of low-flow toilets is that they use less water. However, this can lead to solid waste being flushed away before it has a chance to break down. As a result, it can quickly build up in the drainpipe and cause a clog. Also, low-flow toilets don’t typically have as much pressure in their flushes, so large clumps may not make it all the way down the drain and can cause clogs.
Don’t Let Drain Problems Bring You Down
A clogged drain can be a considerable inconvenience, and it can also cause long-term damage to your plumbing if it is not addressed immediately. Southport Home Services has the tools and experience necessary to unclog your drain quickly and get your water flowing again. We offer installation, maintenance, repair, and replace a fixture or appliance. Contact Southport Home Services today to schedule a service.
