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A clogged drain is one of the most common—and frustrating—plumbing problems homeowners face. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, recurring clogs can lead to serious damage and costly repairs over time. Understanding the main causes of clogs and how to prevent them can save you time, money, and stress.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
1. Hair and Soap Scum
Bathroom sinks and showers often clog because of hair and soap buildup. Hair can easily tangle and trap other debris, while soap residue hardens inside pipes, creating stubborn blockages.
Prevention Tip: Use a drain cover to catch hair before it enters your pipes and clean it regularly. Switching to liquid soap can also reduce the amount of residue that builds up.
2. Grease and Food Waste
Kitchen sinks are especially vulnerable to clogs caused by grease, oil, and food particles. When grease cools, it hardens inside your pipes, creating a sticky layer that traps debris and restricts water flow.
Prevention Tip: Never pour grease or oil down the drain. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash. Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps and avoid rinsing fibrous foods like celery or potato peels into the drain.
3. Wipes, Paper Towels, and Hygiene Products
Toilets and bathroom drains are often blocked by items that aren’t designed to dissolve easily in water. Even products labeled as “flushable” can cause clogs or damage your sewer system.
Prevention Tip: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Dispose of wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products in the trash to keep your plumbing system clear.
4. Mineral Buildup
If your home has hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium can accumulate inside your pipes over time, restricting flow and increasing the risk of clogs.
Prevention Tip: Installing a water softener can help reduce mineral buildup and extend the life of your plumbing system. Regular drain maintenance can also prevent scaling from becoming severe.
5. Tree Roots
Tree roots naturally seek out water and can invade underground pipes through tiny cracks or joints. Over time, they can cause major blockages or even break the line entirely.
Prevention Tip: If you have large trees near your sewer line, schedule routine inspections. Early detection can prevent costly repairs and keep your system flowing smoothly.
How to Keep Your Drains Clear
Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid plumbing issues. Running hot water after using sinks, using drain screens, and scheduling professional cleanings once or twice a year can all make a big difference. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners—they may provide short-term relief but can corrode pipes and worsen the problem over time.
Call Drain EZ Plumbing for Professional Drain Care
When drains slow down or clogs keep coming back, it’s time to call in the professionals. At Drain EZ Plumbing, we use advanced equipment and proven techniques to safely clear blockages and restore proper flow. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, shower, or main sewer line, our team is ready to help.
For reliable drain cleaning and long-term plumbing solutions, contact Drain EZ Plumbing today at (310) 340-0128. Let us take care of your drains—so you can get back to what matters most.