Blocked drains are a common problem causing significant inconvenience and even damage to your property if not addressed in a timely manner. The causes of blocked drains are varied and can include anything from food waste and grease to tree roots and foreign objects.
In the following section of the article, you can explore the top causes of blocked drains and how a blocked drain plumber can help you to prevent and resolve these issues.
Food Waste and Grease Buildup
When you wash dishes, food scraps and grease can stick to the inside of your pipes, causing them to clog over time. This can result in slow-draining water or even complete blockages that prevent water from flowing through your pipes.
A plumber can help to prevent and resolve this issue by installing a grease trap, which collects and separates grease and other solids from the water before it enters your pipes. Additionally, a plumber can use specialised tools to remove built-up food waste and grease from your pipes, restoring them to their proper function.
Foreign Objects
A common cause of blocked drains is foreign objects that are flushed down the toilet or washed down the sink. These objects can include anything from paper towels and feminine hygiene products to children’s toys and even jewellery.
A blocked drain plumber can resolve this issue by installing drain screens, which catch larger objects before they can enter your pipes. A plumber using tools such as a drain snake or hydro-jetting can also remove foreign objects stuck in your pipes, restoring them to their proper function.
Tree Roots
As trees grow, their roots can extend into your pipes, causing them to crack or become blocked. It can result in slow-draining water or even complete drain blockages.
An expert blocked drain plumber can solve this issue by performing regular maintenance on your pipes, including root removal and pipe repairs or replacements as needed. Additionally, a plumber can install root barriers around your pipes to prevent tree roots from infiltrating your plumbing system in the first place.
Soap Scum and Mineral Deposits
Soap scum and mineral deposits are particularly common in areas with hard water, which contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can accumulate in your pipes, causing them to become clogged and reducing water flow.
An experienced plumber resolves this issue by performing regular maintenance on your pipes, including descaling and pipe cleaning as needed. Additionally, a plumber can install a water softener that removes minerals from your water before it enters your pipes, reducing the likelihood of mineral buildup and blockages.
Structural Issues
Structural issues such as collapsed pipes or improperly installed plumbing can also cause blocked drains. When pipes are damaged or installed incorrectly, they can become misaligned, cracked, or collapsed, causing water to back up and creating blockages.
A plumber can address this issue by regularly inspecting your plumbing system and addressing any issues as they arise. Additionally, a plumber can perform pipe repairs or replacements as needed to restore your plumbing system to its proper function.
Blocked drains can be a major headache for homeowners, but with the help of a skilled plumber, you can prevent and resolve these issues before they cause significant damage to your property. By understanding the top causes of blocked drains and taking proactive steps to address them, you can ensure that your plumbing system remains in good working order for years to come. So, if you’re experiencing slow-draining water, foul odours, or other signs of blocked drains, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber for assistance.
