Understanding the Causes of Sewer Drain Clogs from Nearly Services's blog

Introduction:

Sewer drain clogs are a common plumbing issue that can disrupt daily life and cause headaches for homeowners. At Green House Plumbing & Heating, serving the Woodinville, Sammamish, Renton, Redmond, Mercer Island, and Issaquah regions, we believe that understanding the causes of sewer drain cleaning clogs is the first step toward preventing them. In this blog post, we'll explore the common culprits behind drain clogs and how homeowners can take proactive measures to avoid them.

What Causes Sewer Drain Clogs?

1.      Grease and Fat Build-Up:

One of the primary causes of sewer drain clogs is the accumulation of grease and fat. When cooking oil, grease, and fat are poured down the kitchen sink, they may appear to flow smoothly at first. However, as they cool and solidify, they cling to the walls of pipes, gradually narrowing the passage and eventually causing a blockage.

Statistics show that grease buildup contributes to approximately 47% of sewer overflows in the United States, making it a significant concern for homeowners and municipalities alike.

In bathroom drains, hair strands and soap scum are common culprits for clogs. Hair that goes down the shower or sink drain can become tangled and accumulate over time, creating a barrier that impedes water flow. Soap residue, which often contains fats and oils, can further exacerbate the problem by adhering to hair and pipe walls.

3.      Food Waste:

In the kitchen, improper disposal of food waste can lead to drain clogs. Solid food particles, coffee grounds, and starchy substances like pasta and rice can clump together and form blockages in kitchen sinks and garbage disposals. Even small scraps of food can accumulate over time and contribute to clogs.

4.      Foreign Objects:

Sometimes, drain clogs are caused by foreign objects inadvertently flushed or washed down the drain. Common examples include sanitary products, cotton swabs, dental floss, and children's toys. These objects can become lodged in pipes, creating blockages that require professional intervention to remove.

5.      Tree Root Intrusion:

In outdoor sewer lines, tree roots seeking moisture and nutrients can infiltrate pipes through small cracks or joints. As roots grow and multiply, they can exert pressure on pipes, causing them to crack or collapse and leading to blockages and sewage backups.

1.      Proper Grease Disposal:

Instead of pouring grease and fat down the drain, allow them to cool and solidify in a heat-resistant container, then dispose of them in the trash. This simple practice can prevent grease buildup in pipes and reduce the likelihood of clogs.

2.      Use Drain Guards:

Install drain guards or strainers in sinks and showers to catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter the drain. Regularly clean and empty these devices to prevent buildup and maintain optimal drainage.

3.      Dispose of Food Waste Responsibly:

Avoid putting large food scraps, coffee grounds, and fibrous materials down the garbage disposal. Instead, compost food waste or dispose of it in the trash to prevent clogs in kitchen drains.

4.      Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain:

Educate household members about what can and cannot be flushed or washed down the drain. Encourage the use of trash cans for disposing of non-flushable items like wipes, cotton balls, and dental floss to prevent drain clogs.

5.      Schedule Regular Drain Maintenance:

Regular drain maintenance is crucial for identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Green House Plumbing & Heating offers professional drain cleaning and inspection services to keep your drains clear and functioning properly.

Conclusion:

Sewer drain clogs can be a nuisance, but understanding their causes and implementing preventive measures can help homeowners avoid them. By taking simple steps such as proper grease disposal, using drain guards, and scheduling regular drain maintenance, homeowners can keep their drains clear and their plumbing systems running smoothly. At Green House Plumbing & Heating, we're here to assist residents in Woodinville, Sammamish, Renton, Redmond, Mercer Island, and Issaquah with all their plumbing needs, including drain cleaning and maintenance.