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4 Major Causes Of Drain Clogs

4 Major Causes Of Drain Clogs

One of the most common questions poses to all plumbers is, “What are the major causes of drain clogs, and how can I prevent them?” This question is one that most homeowners struggle with and see as a way to significantly reduce their need for an emergency visit from a plumber. And if you have ever been surprised by a nasty drain clog, you know that the cost of a plumbers visit could be just the beginning. Water damage repair costs and the inconvenience of living in a construction zone during those repairs are equally trying. To help you avoid this costly and messy process, we have created a list of the top 4 contributors to drain clogs, and some handy tips on avoiding these mishaps.

  1. Bones and Hard Shells in the Disposal – Your garbage disposal is a handy tool, but there are limits to what it can handle. Large bones are not going to make it through your home’s garbage disposal without taking their toll. And the large chunks of food that you can barely force down the drain opening are also going to cause you trouble shortly. Do yourself a favor and put large bones, hard shells, large chunks of meat, and other big pieces of waste into the garbage can to avoid drain clogs and shortening your disposal life.
  2. Dishwashers Sometimes Contribute – Your dishwasher is a fantastic tool that keeps you from standing at the sink for an hour with your hands in hot water. But if you are not diligent about removing large chunks of food from inside your dishwasher, it can eventually pass those into your drain and create a nasty clog. And while running water from the dishwasher does not contribute to a clog, it can make the issue much more apparent. A small clog might not be noticeable when you have the faucet running. But if you notice that your dishwasher’s water is flooding your kitchen sink, know that there is a clog forming in your drain line. And it is time to call in the pros for a professional cleaning and clog removal before you are facing a flood.
  3. Washing Machines Also Contribute – Every time you wash a laundry load, small fabric particles are flushed down the drain. Most washers have a reasonably good filter, but it does not stop every bit of the fibers. So washing many loads in a short period of time can contribute fabric particles to a clog that is forming inside your drain. Be sure to remove any debris from your washers filter before each use. And like your dishwasher, be aware that a backup in your washer indicates a clog in your drain that will require some professional attention.
  4. Sewer Line Issues – Your home has a single pipe that connects all of the drains in your house to the city sewer system. And if that line becomes clogged or damaged, you are in for a stinky mess. You can limit the possibility of sewer line clogs by being very careful about what you allow to wash down sink and tub drains and what you flush. Only water should be going down any house drains. And the only paper you should ever flush is toilet paper. All other types of trash and debris need to find their way to a trashcan. Also, be aware that large tree roots are a sewer lines nemesis. The tree roots will grow around the sewer pipe and eventually crush it, allowing the raw sewage to flood your yard. Try to locate trees away from your sewer line to avoid this issue.

These four issues are some of the most common causes of drain clogs that require a plumber’s services. And by following our tips and taking just a little added care in disposing of trash and debris, you can significantly reduce the chances of a drain clog in your home.

But when you have a clog that requires professional help, call (706) 303-0987 day or night. A Drain Surgeon licensed plumber is always available to come to your home and eliminate even the toughest drain clogs using nothing but our pure water hydro jet.