A clogged pipe can lead to slow drains, water backing up into a sink or tub and expensive repair bills—which is why it is important that you know why a pipe may clog as it gives you the best chance to fix the issue in a timely and affordable manner. Let’s take a look at some common issues that can cause your pipes to clog.
Hair Can Easily Clog a Pipe
Anyone who has ever lived in a household of girls knows this dilemma pretty well. This is because it is fairly common for a girl’s hair to shed. If it’s long and sheds in the shower, then it can also potentially clog of the pipes and drains. This can be annoying and cause water to not drain away as fast as it should. If this is something that you’re experiencing, then using drain gel and hot water should solve the issue.
Is Someone Pouring Grease Down the Sink?
It is rarely a good idea to pour grease or other fatty liquids down the drain. Ideally, you should put grease into a container and throw it out on garbage pickup day. You can also wipe up small amounts of grease with a paper towel and throw it in the trash. In addition to potential clogging your pipes, it could cause physical damage to them.
Hard Water and Other Minerals Cause Clogs
Over time, hard water and other minerals that may accumulate in a pipe may cause it to stop working like it should. If caught early enough, it may be possible to clean the tub or sink around the drain to keep them cleaner. It may also be possible to use a brush or a plumbing snake to get into the pipe itself and remove any buildup that may exist. If you have discovered that this is the reason for you clogging problems, then you should also look into contacting a professional, such as Johnson Water Conditioning, who can help you improve your water with water softener.
Foreign Objects May Be In the Pipes
Foreign objects that are lodged inside of a pipe will cause a clog that must be fixed immediately. In some cases, roots will grow inside of them if not routinely inspected and maintained. Children are notorious for placing golf balls, stuffed animals or other objects down toilets. You may also cause a clog by placing paper towels instead of toilet paper in a toilet.
If you notice that water isn’t draining properly, it may be a sign that a pipe is clogged. While you may be able to remedy the issue yourself, it may also be necessary to call in a professional to diagnose the problem. Once the issue has been fixed, it is critical that you take steps to ensure that it doesn’t happen again.