3 Common Causes Of Drainage Clogging
Drain clogging is one of the most common plumbing problems in homes, and many homeowners have experienced it at one point in time. Corrosion, overflow, slow drainage, and sometimes sewage blockage are some issues that arise when the drainage system is blocked. While clogging can result from issues beyond your control, the problem is largely contributed by your activities. Owning to the inconveniences and cost of fixing a clogged drain, it's paramount to pay attention to what drains down your sewer. This article looks at three common causes of drainage clogging you should watch out for.
Fats and Food Scraps
Fats, oils, and grease, also known as F.O.G., are some common causes of drainage clogging. When these kitchen leftovers are washed into your system, they cool and later solidify, where they turn into a stubborn blockage. Likewise, things like tea leaves, linguine, rice, and eggshells shouldn't be washed into the drain.
Generally, foodstuffs are easily caught on soap suds and can result in serious clogging. To avoid constant clogging, educate your household members about items that shouldn't be washed down the kitchen sink.
Hair and Fur
Hair and animal fur also trigger drain clogging. Pets like Leonberger dogs with too much fur shouldn't be bathed in bathtubs since they shed excess hair, ending up in the drain lines. Alternatively, always brush their fur before washing them. Human hair also contributes to clogging. Brushing your hair before baths helps reduce the excess. Also, you should consider using a drain screen to prevent the washed hair from flowing into the drains.
Minerals and Other Natural Factors
Drainage system clogs are more prevalent in households that use hard water, as it contains a high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Using a water softener in your water heating system can save you from recurrent drain blockages. Occasional system monitoring by a plumber also helps maintain your drain's functionality.
Trees growing near your home's drainage can be a threat as well. With time, roots spread out, and some may extend into the pipes through gaps and cracks. These roots may clog your system, and sometimes replacing the whole system might be your last resort.
The best way to avert clogging is by taking proactive steps against it. Invest in annual professional drain cleaning services and practice simple measures like suctioning drains with a plunger. Other quick home remedies like pouring hot water, bicarbonate soda, and vinegar will come in handy where necessary. Whatever the case, you should have your emergency plumber's contact details should the worst happen.
For more information, contact a company like Bud's Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electric.