Given the importance of our plumbing systems in our daily lives, it's often overlooked to properly maintain them until an issue arises. Many homeowners often encounter the frustrating problem of clogged drains. Dealing with clogged drains can be a real hassle, whether it's a sink that's draining slowly or a toilet that's completely blocked. If not taken care of promptly, these issues can lead to expensive damage.

However, what leads to the blockage of drains initially? And, most importantly, how can we avoid them in the future? In this blog post, we'll explore the main reasons behind clogged drains and offer practical advice to maintain their cleanliness.

We've all had that frustrating moment - standing in the shower, enjoying the warm water, and then suddenly realizing that the water is pooling around your feet. One of the most frequent reasons for clogged drains is the accumulation of hair in the bathroom drain. Whenever we wash our hair, strands of hair can become trapped in the drain and gradually build up, causing a blockage.

Ways to avoid it:



• It is recommended to install a drain strainer or stopper to prevent hair from going down the drain. It is important to regularly clean out the drain strainer or stopper.
• Utilize a drain-cleaning solution specifically formulated to break down and remove hair buildup
• You may want to consider installing a drain cover with smaller holes to effectively prevent smaller strands of hair from passing through
  

Grease and food scraps in the kitchen sink are another common culprit behind clogged drains. It's important to avoid pouring cooking oil, grease, or food scraps down the drain as it can result in a buildup of residue that can eventually cause a blockage.

Ways to avoid it:



• Allow grease and oil to solidify before throwing it away in the trash - Place a grease trap or strainer over your sink drain to capture any residue.
• Clean off dirty dishes before rinsing them in the sink to prevent excessive food scraps from going down the drain.
• Routinely flush hot water down the drain to aid in dissolving grease buildup
  

Although it may appear obvious, numerous homeowners fail to consider that foreign objects can effortlessly lead to clogs in drains. Items such as children's toys, feminine hygiene products, and cotton swabs can sometimes end up in the toilet, leading to unfortunate blockages.



Ways to avoid it:

• It's important to keep small objects out of reach in bathrooms, especially if you have young children. Safety should always be a top priority.
• Remember to only flush toilet paper and bodily waste down the toilet. Disposing of any other substances can result in plumbing complications.
• To prevent small objects from falling down the shower and tub drains, consider using a drain grate or strainer. This simple step can help avoid potential clogs.
  

Occasionally, clogged drains can be attributed to factors beyond your control, such as tree roots infiltrating your sewer lines. As trees grow, their roots have the potential to extend and cause damage to underground pipes, resulting in blockages and potentially expensive repairs.

Ways to avoid it:

• It's important to keep an eye on the positioning of trees and large shrubs in relation to your main sewer line. - Make it a habit to regularly check your sewer lines for any indications of root intrusion.
• Take into consideration the placement of trees and large shrubs, ensuring they are kept at a safe distance from your sewer lines.
• If you think there might be a problem with roots in your plumbing system, it's best to reach out to a professional plumber. They can inspect the situation and take care of any necessary root removal.
  

Hard water can lead to the formation of mineral buildup, commonly referred to as limescale, within pipes. Over time, the accumulation of minerals like calcium and magnesium can lead to a buildup on the inner walls of the pipes, potentially resulting in blockages.

Ways to avoid it:

• Enhance the quality of your water by installing a water softener system, which effectively reduces the presence of minerals. 
• Maintain the cleanliness of your pipes by regularly cleaning and descaling them using a mixture of vinegar and hot water. 
• Improve the taste and purity of your tap water by considering the use of a water filter or pitcher to remove minerals before consumption or cooking.
  

Clogged drains can be a frustrating problem for homeowners, but there are ways to prevent them from happening again. By being conscious of what goes down your drains and regularly maintaining them, you can prevent blockages and steer clear of expensive repairs.

If you're experiencing a clogged drain or need any plumbing services, feel free to reach out to our team at Matt Meek LLC. We provide a wide range of plumbing services, including water heater repair, water softener installation, and well pump services in Greenwood, IN, and Columbus, IN, as well as the surrounding areas. Our skilled plumbers have extensive experience in conducting thorough inspections and determining the optimal solution tailored to your unique requirements.

Get in touch with us now at (812) 344-3559 for any plumbing services you require. It is crucial to regularly maintain your drains and plumbing to ensure they remain clear and function properly.