Why Does My Drain Keep Getting Clogged? (And How to Prevent It!)
- innoleakplumbingso
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up shower, or a toilet that won’t flush properly, drain blockages can be a real hassle. But why do drains get clogged in the first place? In this article, we’ll explore the top causes of clogged drains, how to prevent them, and when to call a plumber for professional drain cleaning.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
1. Hair Buildup
One of the biggest culprits of clogged bathroom drains is hair accumulation. Hair can bind with soap residue and create stubborn blockages in sinks, showers, and bathtubs.
💡 Prevention Tip: Install a drain strainer to catch hair before it goes down the drain, and clean it regularly.
2. Grease and Cooking Oil
In the kitchen, grease, fats, and cooking oils are notorious for causing clogs. While they may seem like liquids when poured down the drain, they quickly solidify and trap food particles, leading to severe blockages.
💡 Prevention Tip: Always dispose of grease properly by letting it cool and tossing it in the trash instead of rinsing it down the sink.
3. Soap Scum and Mineral Buildup
Over time, soap scum and hard water minerals can accumulate inside pipes, reducing water flow and causing clogs. This is especially common in areas with hard water.
💡 Prevention Tip: Use liquid soap instead of bar soap to reduce residue buildup, and consider installing a water softener if you have hard water.
4. Food Waste
Even if you have a garbage disposal, certain food scraps should never go down the drain. Items like coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, rice, and fibrous vegetables can easily clog your kitchen sink.
💡 Prevention Tip: Scrape food scraps into the trash or compost bin before rinsing dishes in the sink.
5. Foreign Objects and Non-Flushable Items
Flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet can quickly lead to a clogged drain. Common offenders include baby wipes, cotton swabs, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products.
💡 Prevention Tip: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Use a trash bin for other hygiene products.
6. Tree Roots Intruding into Pipes
If you have an older home with underground sewer lines, tree roots can be a hidden cause of drain clogs. Roots naturally seek out moisture and can invade small cracks in pipes, causing blockages and even pipe damage.
💡 Prevention Tip: Schedule regular sewer inspections if you have large trees near your home. Professional plumbers can use camera inspections to detect root intrusions before they become a major problem.
7. Collapsed or Damaged Pipes
In some cases, frequent clogs may be a sign of a more serious issue—broken or collapsed pipes. This is common in aging homes with old clay or cast-iron pipes.
💡 Prevention Tip: If you experience recurring drain problems, it’s best to call a licensed plumber for a professional inspection.
How to Prevent Drain Clogs
✅ Use drain strainers to catch hair, food, and debris.
✅ Never pour grease or oil down the drain.
✅ Flush only toilet paper—avoid wipes, paper towels, and other hygiene products.
✅ Rinse drains with hot water weekly to clear minor buildups.
✅ Schedule professional drain cleaning at least once a year to prevent serious blockages.
When to Call a Plumber
If your drain is completely blocked, draining slowly, or making gurgling sounds, it may be time to call a professional. At Innoleak Plumbing Solutions, we offer expert drain cleaning services to remove even the toughest clogs using hydro jetting and professional drain snaking.
🚰 Need help with a clogged drain? Contact us today for fast, reliable plumbing solutions!
📞 Call us now or schedule a service online!
Final Thoughts
Understanding what causes drain clogs and how to prevent them can save you time, money, and frustration. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your drains flowing smoothly and avoid costly plumbing repairs.
For professional drain cleaning services, trust the experts at Innoleak Plumbing Solutions! 🚿🔧
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