Prevent Blocked Drains Now: Know the Common Causes
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.
These blockages can be prevented by:
- Cooking oil should be disposed of in the trash, not the sink
- Avoid pouring leftover food debris or coffee grounds into the sink
- To prevent hair accumulation, install drain covers in bathtubs, sinks, and shower stalls
- 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 near sewer lines
3. Grease buildup
Blockages can be caused by grease buildup. Hot grease is often poured down the kitchen sink. It’s liquid form allows it to escape from dishes, but it congeals quickly once it cools and gets deep within your pipes, causing blockages.
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:
- Slow 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
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
These are the most important things to remember after you have read this article.
- Foreign objects like hair, soap residue, paper products and food particles are common causes of Blocked Drains.
- Tree roots growth toward water sources such as cracked pipes causing complete blockage within a 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.
- 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.
- Hire only qualified-professionals plumbers for regular check ups instead of waiting for emergencies.
- Follow standard local plumbing codes during construction.
- Place catch baskets on screen traps at outlets to capture any debris before it reaches the drainage system.
