Blocked drains are a common household problem that can cause significant inconvenience if not addressed promptly. In extreme cases, a blocked drain can result in water overflow, unpleasant odours, and even property damage. This blog will explore the common reasons why your drain gets blocked and how a Blocked drain plumber can help to resolve the issue. Here are some common reasons for drain blockage:
Hair and Soap Scum
Hair and soap scum are two of the most common causes of blocked drains, especially in the bathroom. As people wash their hair and bodies, small strands of hair and soap scum can accumulate in the pipes over time, causing blockages. If left unchecked, these blockages can become more severe and cause water to back into the shower or bathtub. A plumber can use specialized tools like drain snakes and hydro-jets to clear these blockages effectively. A drain snake is a flexible metal wire that can be inserted into the drain to break up any hair or soap scum buildup.
Grease and Fat
Grease and fat are common culprits for blocked kitchen drains. When we wash greasy dishes, the fat can solidify and accumulate in the pipes, leading to blockages. Over time, the accumulation of grease can cause the drain to slow down, and eventually, water may stop flowing altogether. Plumbers can use various methods to clear grease blockages, including drain snakes, hydro-jets, and specialized chemicals. However, prevention is always better than cure for grease blockages. Homeowners should avoid pouring fat and grease down the drain and instead dispose of them in the garbage.
Foreign Objects
Foreign objects are another common cause of blocked drains. Children are notorious for flushing toys, toilet paper, and other objects down the toilet, leading to blockages. Similarly, small objects like fruit pits, bones, and even utensils in the kitchen can accidentally fall down the sink, causing blockages. Clearing foreign objects from a blocked drain can be a delicate process, and homeowners should not attempt to do so themselves. Plumbers have specialized tools like drain cameras that can be inserted into the pipe to safely locate the object and remove it.
Tree Roots
Tree roots are a common cause of blocked drains in outdoor plumbing systems. As trees grow, their roots can invade and damage underground pipes, causing blockages and leaks. If left unaddressed, tree root blockages can cause significant damage to the plumbing system and even the surrounding landscape. A Blocked drain plumber can use various techniques to clear tree root blockages, including root cutters, hydro-jets, and excavation. Regular maintenance and inspection of outdoor plumbing systems can help prevent tree root blockages and catch any potential issues early before they develop into larger and more costly problems.
Old Pipes
Old pipes commonly cause blocked drains, especially in older homes. Over time, pipes can deteriorate and become clogged with rust, sediment, and other debris. Old pipes may also develop cracks or leaks, leading to blockages and water damage. Modern pipes are often made from materials like PVC, which are more resistant to rust and corrosion and are less likely to develop blockages. A plumber can inspect the plumbing system to determine if pipe replacement is necessary and can recommend the best course of action.
In conclusion, blocked drains are a common household problem that can cause significant inconvenience if left unaddressed. Homeowners should be aware of the common causes of blocked drains and take preventative measures to avoid them. If a blockage does occur, homeowners should not attempt to clear it themselves and should instead call a professional plumber to resolve the issue safely and effectively.
