Clogged drains are some of the most frequent plumbing issues that people experience. Though a homeowner with plumbing knowledge can sometimes fix the clog independently, it is always a good idea to call a professional. To avoid dealing with a clogged drain, avoid these common causes.
Hair
Most people have had the unpleasant experience of pulling clumps of hair out of the shower drain. It can wash down the drain during showers and combine with other substances to form into solid clumps, clogging your drain. Make sure that you have a guard over your shower drain to catch hair and clean the guard frequently.
Food Waste and Substances
Some people believe that if they have a garbage disposal they can wash any food waste down the drain in their kitchen sink. This is not true. Food and substances that do not break down such as coffee grounds, grease, and tea leaves will build up in your pipes and create a clog in your drain over time. If you have a compost bin scrape off any food material before washing your dishes.
Soap
Though it may seem counterintuitive, soap can cause clogs in drains. Traditional bars of soap include grease or fat – both substances that should not be washed down a drain. Consider switching to a different kind of soap that is not made with substances such as grease and fat. If you believe that a clog in your shower or sink drain is due to soap buildup, call a professional.
Mineral Buildup
Mineral clogs are one of the most difficult clogs to deal with. If you are using hard water, the minerals in it will build up and quickly clog. Install a water softener so you will not have minerals washing down your sink. If you think you may have a mineral clog, call a professional who has experience clearing mineral buildup.
Dirt
Drains can only take a certain amount of dirt before it builds up inside the pipes and creates a clog. Try to brush off any excess dirt from your body before getting in the shower or washing your hands. Drains can take dirt in small doses but will have issues if you try and wash large chunks of dirt down them.
Sources:
https://magnificentplumbing.com/8-common-causes-of-clogged-drains-prevent/
