clogged drains

Clogged drains can take you from headaches to costly home repairs in no time. Between the unpleasant odors and potential water damage if left alone, clogged drains are serious business you’ll want to handle the moment you realize they’re a problem.Part of dealing with the issue is understanding what caused the clog in the first place. Here’s a look at some of the common culprits of clogged drains and how you can handle them effectively.

Hair and Soap Scum

One of the most common reasons drains get clogged is hair. Combine the hair with soap scum, and you have the ideal recipe for a clogged drain. Hair accumulates quickly in bathroom shower drains and sinks. The hair mixes with the soap scum to create a dense mass that water can’t get through.It’s not easy to prevent these things from going down your drain; it will naturally happen when you use your bathroom. However, regular drain inspection can help catch these clogs early so they don’t turn into a bigger issue.

Food Waste

While hair and soap scum are the bane of bathroom drains, food waste is the main offender in kitchens. Grease and food particles build up in your pipes, causing blockages that are tough to get rid of.You can prevent these blockages by properly disposing of grease and oils — don’t just wash them down the drain and hope for the best. You should also use a drain strainer to catch food debris. If you notice your kitchen sink draining slower than normal, it’s probably time to call for professional clogged drain services.

Foreign Objects

Sometimes, a clogged drain is simply clogged with a singular, random object. Toys, dental floss, or feminine hygiene products can all get stuck in your drains and cause blockages. It’s hard to avoid this problem as well — just try to ensure you don’t let anything get lost down the drain.Certain products, like paper towels, are sometimes thought of as safe to flush down drains. It’s important to know that these don’t dissolve in water and can quickly form a stubborn clog that requires extensive repairs. If you suspect you’re dealing with a foreign object, call a professional for unclogging drains to avoid any further damage to your pipes.

Mineral Buildup

If you have hard water, that could be the reason you also struggle with drain clogs. Minerals accumulate in your pipes, much like hair and soap scum, and can narrow the space the water has to pass through. Regular maintenance and drain inspection are key no matter where you live, but you’ll want to pay extra close attention to your drains if you live somewhere with hard water.If you live somewhere where your drains are impacted by the water, take extra care to avoid any of the above issues so they don’t compound the problem.

Call Baethke Plumbing for Expert Assistance With Clogged Drains

Do you need drain repair or other plumbing services? Let the team at Baethke Plumbing help get things back up and running smoothly in your home’s pipes — all at a fair, affordable price. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your appointment.