Slow, Sneaky Causes of Clogged Drains

When people imagine a drain becoming clogged, it’s common for them to picture something happening suddenly. One item got washed down the sink or the tub drain, and now it’s completely blocked! But this is actually not the way that most drain clogs happen. 

Instead, drain clogs are usually things that accumulate gradually. A little bit of buildup at a time can lead to a completely blocked drain pipe or sewer line. Slow drainage and unpleasant smells are common signs of a clogged drain. We’ll tell you all about the various things that can accumulate slowly, leading to clogged drains. You might be able to avoid the clogs entirely! Professional plumbing services are essential in maintaining a healthy plumbing system.

Clogged drains can lead to more severe plumbing issues if not addressed promptly.

Introduction to Drain Issues

Drain issues are a common problem that many homeowners in Northern Virginia face. Clogged drains can cause a range of problems, from slow drainage to sewage backups, and can be a significant hassle to deal with. Whether it’s a clogged sink drain, shower drains, or toilet water bubbles, these issues can disrupt your daily routine and lead to more severe plumbing problems if not addressed promptly. Plumbing professionals can remove clogs from kitchen sinks, toilets, and main line drains, ensuring your plumbing system functions properly.

Professional drain cleaning services are essential in maintaining a healthy plumbing system. These services can help identify and remove blockages before they become major issues, ensuring that your drains function smoothly. Slow drainage and unpleasant smells are often the first signs of a clogged drain, and addressing these early can save you from more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Hydro jetting utilizes high-pressure water jets to clear stubborn blockages and cleans the pipe interior, providing a thorough solution to drainage issues.

In this article, we will explore the causes of clogged drains, the importance of professional drain cleaning, and how to prevent clogged drains from occurring in the first place. By understanding these factors, you can take proactive steps to keep your plumbing system in top condition and avoid the inconvenience and expense of clogged drain repair services.

Fats, Oils & Grease: Major Causes of Drain Clogs

To a plumber, FOG is not low-lying clouds that obstruct your vision when you’re trying to drive early in the morning. No, it’s an acronym that stands for Fats, Oils, and Grease. These things get washed down the kitchen sink a little at a time, and they seem like liquid when they go down. But once they get cold, oh, my! They become very solid, like a stick of butter straight from the fridge. This can lead to a significant clog in the kitchen sink.

Because a little bit at a time will add up to a big problem, you need to stop putting those small amounts of grease down your sink. When you have fat such as meat grease, cheese, butter, or oil on your dishes, give them a quick wipe with a paper towel. The paper towel goes in the trash, and the FOG won’t go down your drain. Professional services can effectively unclog drains affected by FOG buildup.

Why Hair Buildup Blocks Drains

More common in bathroom drains than kitchen sinks, hair slides easily into pipes but won’t dissolve or break down for a very long time. A little bit at a time can turn into a tangle that leaves you standing in dirty water that won’t drain when you’re taking your shower! Highly trained technicians can effectively address hair-related clogs, ensuring a thorough and preventative approach to drainage maintenance.

A cheap plastic drain snake with little hooks might be able to solve the problem, but it would be more pleasant to simply avoid this issue to begin with. Hair clogs are a common plumbing problem that can be prevented with proper measures. Use a mesh drain cover to catch as much hair as possible, and make sure you empty it frequently.

How Soap Residue Leads to Plumbing Issues

This unpleasant substance, much like FOG, can wash down the drain as a liquid but solidify inside the pipes. If you’ve ever let your shower go a little too long between cleanings, you know just how this stuff hardens. And it can make it easier for hair to get caught and cause clogs, too. It is essential to inspect drains regularly to identify and address soap scum buildup before it leads to more significant issues.

The same mesh drain cover will help reduce the amount of soap scum that makes it down your drain. Occasionally pouring a kettle of boiling water down your drain can help, too.  Professional clogged drain cleaning services can effectively remove soap scum and prevent clogs, ensuring your plumbing system remains functional. But how can you make it so your soap doesn’t create as much scum? By making sure your water is soft enough.

Hard Water Deposits and Clogging Risks

Hard water prevents soap from lathering as well as it should, creating more soap scum. It also deposits thin layers of minerals on the inside of your pipes, and these layers gradually thicken, narrowing and eventually blocking the drains. You may need hydro-jetting to get rid of it, and a plumber can answer questions about whether your home should have a water-softening system. Additionally, video camera inspections can help identify hard water buildup in pipes without invasive methods, making it easier to address the issue effectively.

Preventing Clogged Drains

Preventing clogged drains is easier than you think. One of the most effective ways to prevent clogs is to be mindful of what you put down your drains. Avoid pouring grease, soap scum, and foreign objects down your sink, as these can cause buildup and blockages in your pipes. Grease, in particular, can solidify and create stubborn clogs that are difficult to remove.

Consider using a drain screen or filter to catch hair and other debris before they go down the drain. This simple tool can prevent a significant amount of buildup in your pipes, especially in the bathroom where hair and soap scum are common culprits. Regularly cleaning these screens will ensure they remain effective.

Regular drain cleaning services can also help to prevent clogs by removing any existing buildup and debris from your pipes. Professional drain cleaning can address issues that DIY methods might miss, providing a thorough clean that keeps your drains flowing freely. Professional drain cleaning should be scheduled at least once a year to maintain optimal flow within plumbing systems. By taking these steps, you can help to keep your drains in good working order and avoid the hassle and expense of clogged drain repair services.

Maintaining a well-functioning plumbing system is crucial for any home. Regular inspections and timely repairs can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Professional drain service is essential in maintaining functional plumbing systems, ensuring that clogs and drainage issues are promptly addressed.

Regular maintenance of plumbing systems can prevent clogs and other issues, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your home’s plumbing. By understanding the local plumbing challenges, such as the age of plumbing systems or environmental factors, homeowners can take proactive steps to maintain their systems. Regular inspections and cleaning can help detect and address tree root infiltrations in pipes early, preventing more severe damage. Professional services provide peace of mind by ensuring that plumbing systems are in good working order.

We’re happy to help resolve any problems these types of slow buildup have caused. Professional services can fix issues caused by hard water buildup, providing lasting solutions. Reach out right away for drain cleaning services in Manassas, VA.

AllTech Services, Inc. is your trusted resource for all your plumbing concerns. Contact us today!