Avoid Drain Blockages: Tips to Steer Clear of These 5 Common Triggers
Blocked drains can be a frustrating problem and cause many inconveniences. Blocked drains can cause unpleasant odors, slow drainage of 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. Here are five common causes of blocked drains and how to prevent them:
1. Foreign objects
Foreign objects such as food particles, hair, soap residue, and paper products can cause blocked drains. These substances stick to pipes and block water flow.
To prevent these blockages from occurring:
- Dispose of cooking oil in the trash and not down the drain
- Do not pour coffee grounds or leftover food into the sink
- Install drain covers in sinks, bathtubs, and shower stalls to prevent hair from accumulating
- Toilet paper should be used sparingly when flushing
2. Tree roots
Tree roots can often be found growing toward cracked pipes and pipe joints, where they can infiltrate the pipe and eventually block it completely.
To prevent tree root intrusion:
- Hire professionals to properly install pipes so they’re level
- Avoid planting trees next to sewer lines
3. Grease buildup
Blockages can be caused by grease buildup. 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.
To avoid grease buildup in your kitchen sink dispose off all greasy wast like cook oils via trash bin instead pouring it down into your kitchen drainage system.
4. Structural damage
Blocked drains can be caused by cracked or collapsed pipes, whether they are due to weather changes or age. Signs of structural damage of pipes include:
- Slowly draining water
- Multiple blocked fixtures
- Mold growth
- Foundation cracks
To prevent structural damages:
- Get your sewer lines inspected regularly with the help of CCTV inspections so that professional repair company could detect any issues and fix it immediately.
5. Incorrect pipe installation
Incorrect pipe installation or poor design can also contribute to blocked drains as it sometimes leaves very tight bends in unscrupulous areas where large debris easily form blockages from accumulated waste.
To prevent such occurrences, hire professionals to properly install pipes and ensure the pipes meet the recommended standards for sizes and torques.
Conclusion
If left unattended, blocked drains can cause serious problems. 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:
- Blocked drains are often caused by foreign objects such as hair, soap residues, paper products, and food particles.
- Tree roots can grow towards water sources like cracked pipes, causing complete obstruction within the pipe.
- Blockages can be caused by grease buildup in your pipes.
- Cracked or collapsed pipes caused by weather, age or ground shifts can cause structural damage that impair smooth water flow.
- Incorrect Pipe installations may leave very tight bends susceptible for large debris causing accumulative blockages. from the wastes that are going through the drainage system.
- Hire only qualified-professionals plumbers for regular check ups instead of waiting for emergencies.
- Follow standard local plumbing codes during construction.
- To capture debris that does not reach the drainage system, place catch baskets on screens traps.
Additional Information
- Start with Clean Plumbing for a Spotless Home: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- Keep Your Drains Clear: 10 Tips to Avoid Blockages at Home
- Say Goodbye to Clogged Drains with These Effective Solutions
- Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine