Why do my drains keep clogging?

There could be several reasons why your drains keep clogging. Some common causes include:

• Accumulation of debris: Over time, debris such as hair, food particles, grease, soap scum, and other substances can build up in your drains, leading to clogs. This is especially common in bathroom drains, kitchen sinks, and shower drains.
• Incorrect usage: Incorrect usage of drains can also cause clogs. For example, flushing non-flushable items down the toilet, pouring grease or oil down the kitchen sink, or not using a drain filter in your shower or bathtub can result in backed up drains.
• Tree roots: Tree roots can infiltrate your sewer pipes and cause blockages. Roots are attracted to the moisture in the pipes and can grow into them, leading to recurring clogs and backups.
• Aging pipes: Over time, pipes can degrade and develop cracks or breaks, leading to clogs. This is especially common in older homes with aging plumbing systems.
• Hard water deposits: If you have hard water, minerals such as calcium and magnesium can build up inside your pipes, narrowing the space where water can pass through and resulting in slow drains.
• Poor pipe installation: If pipes are not installed properly or have sharp bends or angles, it can cause debris to accumulate and result in clogs.
• External factors: Sometimes, external factors such as weather conditions, flooding, or construction work in the vicinity of your property can also cause drains to clog.

How can I prevent drain clogs?

To prevent clogs, it’s important to practice good drain maintenance habits, such as using drain filters, avoiding flushing non-flushable items down the toilet, and regular cleaning of drains using appropriate methods. If you continue to experience persistent drain clogs, it may be best to consult a professional plumber to identify and address the underlying cause.

What Should You Avoid Putting Down the Drain?

Maintaining a smoothly running plumbing system is a priority for any homeowner, and one key aspect of this is understanding what should never be introduced into your drains. Avoiding certain items and materials can prevent clogs, backups, and costly plumbing repairs. Here’s an in-depth look at what you should steer clear of when it comes to your drains:

• Grease and Oil: Pouring grease or oil down the drain may seem convenient, especially after cooking, but it’s a common cause of blockages. Over time, grease and oil can solidify, adhering to the walls of your pipes, and gradually narrowing the passageway for water to flow through. To dispose of grease and oil properly, let them cool and then place them in a container for later disposal in the trash.
• Food Scraps: While it’s tempting to wash food scraps down the kitchen sink, it’s a practice that should be avoided. Large food particles, like fruit peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells, can accumulate in your pipes and create obstructions. Instead, use a strainer in your sink to catch food debris, and dispose of it in your compost or trash.
• Fibrous Materials: Stringy vegetables, such as celery or corn husks, can be particularly troublesome for drains. These fibrous materials have a tendency to tangle within the pipes, impeding the smooth flow of water. Always dispose of fibrous waste in your trash or compost bin.
• Paper Products: Flushing paper towels, wet wipes, and feminine hygiene products down the toilet might seem convenient, but it’s a bad idea. These items don’t break down easily like toilet paper, which can lead to clogs and sewer backups. To avoid this issue, dispose of them in a proper waste bin.
• Chemicals: Harsh chemicals, including drain cleaners and paint thinners, should never be introduced into your drains. While they might temporarily solve a clog issue, these chemicals can corrode your pipes over time, leading to costly repairs. Instead, consider using natural or enzymatic drain cleaners or seek professional plumbing assistance when dealing with stubborn clogs.
• Coffee Grounds: Coffee grounds might seem harmless, but they can accumulate in your pipes and create blockages. It’s best to dispose of coffee grounds in the trash or use them for composting.

Are liquid drain cleaners safe for drains and pipes?

While liquid drain cleaners can be effective in clearing some clogs, they can also pose risks to your drains and pipes. Many liquid drain cleaners are highly caustic and contain harsh chemicals that can cause damage to your plumbing system, especially if used improperly or frequently. Here are some considerations:

• Chemical drain cleaners are corrosive to pipes. Most liquid drain cleaners contain corrosive chemicals, such as sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide, which can eat away at pipes, especially if they are made of older or weaker materials like PVC, rubber, or corroded metal pipes. This can lead to pipe damage, leaks, or even complete pipe failure over time.
• Chemical drain cleaners are harmful to the environment. Liquid drain cleaners contain toxic chemicals that are harmful to the environment. When these chemicals are flushed down the drain, they can end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans, posing a risk to aquatic life and the environment.
• Chemical drain cleaners are are a health hazard. Liquid drain cleaners can be toxic and pose health hazards if ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with skin or eyes. They can cause burns, respiratory irritation, and other health issues. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use appropriate protective measures when handling drain cleaners.
• Chemical drain cleaners are only temporary solutions. Liquid drain cleaners may provide a temporary solution to a clog, but they often do not address the underlying cause of the clog. If the clog is due to a more serious issue, such as tree roots or a damaged pipe, using drain cleaners may only provide temporary relief and the issue will likely recur.
• Chemical drain cleaners are carry a risk of overuse. Frequent or excessive use of liquid drain cleaners can actually exacerbate the problem by causing damage to pipes and creating a cycle of dependence on drain cleaners. This can lead to more frequent clogs and increased plumbing repair costs in the long run.

It’s generally recommended to use liquid drain cleaners sparingly and as a last resort, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and considering alternative methods such as using a plunger, a drain snake, or seeking professional help from a licensed plumber for persistent or recurring clogs. Preventive measures like regular drain maintenance, proper disposal of grease and debris, and avoiding flushing non-flushable items down the toilet can also help prevent clogs in the first place.