A blocked drain is one of the most frustrating issues homeowners can face, often causing unpleasant smells, slow draining sinks, and even water backing up into the house. If left untreated, blocked drains can lead to more serious plumbing issues and potential damage to your property. Fortunately, many blocked drains are caused by common, preventable problems that can be fixed with the right approach.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of a blocked drain and provide practical advice on how to fix and prevent these issues.
1. Build-up of Hair
Hair is one of the most common culprits when it comes to blocked drains, especially in bathrooms. Over time, hair can accumulate in the pipes, forming clumps that slow down water flow and eventually cause a complete blockage. This is particularly common in shower and bathtub drains, where large amounts of hair are often washed down.
To prevent hair from clogging your drains, use a drain guard or mesh to catch the hair before it goes down the drain. Regularly clean the guard to prevent any build-up. If your drain is already blocked with hair, using a plunger or a drain snake can help remove the obstruction. You may also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down the hair and flush it out with hot water.
2. Grease and Fat Build-up
In kitchen drains, grease, fat, and oil are major contributors to blockages. While liquid when hot, these substances can cool and solidify as they travel through the pipes, gradually building up and restricting water flow. Over time, this build-up can lead to a significant blockage.
To avoid grease build-up, never pour cooking fats or oils down the sink. Instead, allow them to cool and dispose of them in the bin. If your drain is already blocked by grease, you can try pouring boiling water down the drain to melt the fat. For more stubborn blockages, using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by boiling water can help break down the grease.
3. Foreign Objects
Foreign objects such as food scraps, sanitary products, wipes, and even small toys can easily find their way into your drains, especially if you have children. These items can quickly become lodged in the pipes, causing blockages that prevent water from draining properly.
To prevent foreign objects from entering your drains, use sink strainers to catch food scraps in the kitchen, and avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. If a foreign object has caused a blockage, you may be able to remove it with a drain snake or plunger. For more serious blockages, it may be necessary to call a plumber.
4. Soap Scum Build-up
While soap is essential for keeping our hands and bodies clean, it can also cause blockages over time. Soap scum forms when soap mixes with hard water minerals, creating a residue that can build up on the inside of pipes. This residue can restrict water flow and eventually cause a blockage, particularly in bathroom sinks, showers, and bathtubs.
To prevent soap scum build-up, use liquid soap instead of bar soap, as it is less likely to form scum. Regularly flushing your drains with hot water and a solution of baking soda and vinegar can help break down soap residue and keep your pipes clear. If you already have a soap-related blockage, a plunger or drain cleaner may be needed to remove it.
5. Tree Root Infiltration
Tree roots are one of the most serious causes of blocked drains, particularly in older homes with mature trees nearby. Tree roots naturally seek out water sources, and if there is even a small crack or leak in your pipes, they can penetrate the system. Once inside, the roots can grow and expand, causing a severe blockage that may also damage the pipes themselves.
If you suspect that tree roots are causing a blocked drain, it’s important to call a professional plumber. They will use specialised equipment, such as a drain camera, to inspect the pipes and identify the problem. In some cases, the roots can be removed with a high-pressure water jet, while more severe cases may require pipe repairs or replacement.
How to Prevent Blocked Drains
Preventing blocked drains is always better than dealing with the inconvenience of fixing them. There are a few simple steps you can take to keep your drains flowing smoothly:
- Use Drain Guards: Drain guards are an inexpensive way to catch hair, food scraps, and other debris before they enter your pipes. Install them in your sinks, showers, and bathtubs to prevent blockages.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, and never pour cooking fats or oils down the sink. Dispose of these items in the bin instead.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean your drains with hot water, baking soda, and vinegar to break down any build-up of grease, soap scum, or other debris. This simple routine can help prevent blockages from forming.
- Watch for Warning Signs: Slow draining sinks, gurgling sounds, and unpleasant odours are all warning signs of a potential blockage. Address these issues early to avoid more serious problems down the line.
Conclusion
Blocked drains can be a real headache, but they’re often caused by preventable issues such as hair, grease, or foreign objects. By understanding the common causes of a blocked drain and taking steps to prevent them, you can keep your plumbing in good working order and avoid the need for costly repairs.
If you’re dealing with a blocked drain that you can’t fix on your own, it’s best to call a professional plumber. At Sydney Plumbing Group, we specialise in diagnosing and resolving blocked drain issues quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a service and get your drains flowing freely again.