What Causes Clogged Drains?

Clogged drains are a common household problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are a few common causes of clogged drains:

1. Hair: Hair is a common cause of clogged drains, especially in bathroom sinks and showers. As hair sheds, it can accumulate in the drain, eventually blocking the flow of water.
2. Soap scum: Soap scum is a residue that can build up in the drain over time, eventually causing a clog. This is especially common in showers and bathtubs.
3. Grease and oil: Pouring grease and oil down the drain can cause a clog as it cools and solidifies. This is especially common in kitchen sinks.
4. Foreign objects: Flushing foreign objects such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels down the toilet can cause a clog. These items do not break down like toilet paper and can become stuck in the pipes.
5. Tree roots: In some cases, tree roots can grow into the pipes and cause a blockage. This is more common in older homes with clay pipes that are more prone to cracking.
6. Scale build-up: Over time, hard water minerals can accumulate in the pipes, causing a build-up of scale. This can eventually lead to a clog.
7. Corrosion: If the pipes in your home are old, they may be prone to corrosion, which can lead to clogs.

To prevent clogged drains, it's important to be mindful of what you flush or rinse down the drain. Avoid flushing foreign objects or pouring grease and oil down the drain, and use a drain cover to catch hair and soap scum. It's also a good idea to have your drains professionally cleaned on a regular basis to remove any build-up that may be causing a blockage.

If you do experience a clogged drain, there are a few steps you can take to try and clear it. You can try using a plunger to loosen the blockage, or you can use a chemical drain cleaner to break up the clog. If these methods don't work, it's best to call a professional plumber to assess the problem and clear the drain properly.

In conclusion, clogged drains can be caused by a variety of factors, including hair, soap scum, grease and oil, foreign objects, tree roots, scale build-up, and corrosion. To prevent clogged drains, it's important to be mindful of what you flush or rinse down the drain and to have your drains professionally cleaned on a regular basis. If you do experience a clogged drain, there are a few steps you can take to try and clear it, but if these methods don't work, it's best to call a professional plumber.