Drain blockages are more than just a nuisance. Left unchecked, they can cause major damage to your plumbing system. Using hot water can clear minor blockages, but some blockages require professional attention to resolve.

Most drain clogs form over time as waste, soap scum, hair, and other materials build up on pipe walls. These items stick together, forming solid clogs that can affect the flow of water.

Foreign Objects

Anyone with kids knows that toys can get dropped into drains, and even so-called “flushable” wipes can cause blockages if they don’t dissolve. If these objects are left in a blocked drain for too long, they can cause severe damage to the pipe and require expensive plumbing repairs.

Grease, fats, and oils poured down kitchen drains can solidify over time and create a clog that blocks water flow. You can prevent grease clogs by pouring boiling water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drain weekly.

A clogged drain is an indication that it’s time to call a plumber. Regular plumbing inspections and maintenance can help avoid major sediment build-up in your pipes, but even the best home cleaning routine can’t prevent these issues completely. If your drains are blocked with a foreign object or you’re experiencing persistent odors, it’s time to call a professional. They have the tools and experience to tackle even the most stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are attracted to water and nutrients and a home’s aging sewer line provides a perfect source. They can grow into, around and even completely block drains. This is often the cause of recurring clogs in sinks, bathtubs and toilets and can lead to serious sewage backup and damage to pipes.

The first sign of a root problem is the sound of gurgling from drains and toilets. This is wastewater and sewage bubbling up from the clogged drains. Once the clog is severe, it will prevent waste from draining altogether and sewage will back up into your home.

Periodic applications of a chemical root killer can be an effective short-term solution. However, if you notice a constant recurrence of drain clogs it’s important to call in a professional plumber for a more permanent root removal process like pipe lining. This minimally invasive procedure involves pulling in a synthetic resin liner that cures inside the damaged pipe, blocking the entry points for tree roots and protecting the rest of the sewer line.

Garbage

A small amount of dirt in a drain will likely pass through, but large volumes can cause blockages. This is especially true when discarded items like baby wipes, paper towels, lightweight cardboard, coffee grounds, egg shells, and food scraps cling together and build up inside of pipes.

Toilet paper is also a major cause of blocked drains. Despite their "flushable" label, toilet paper and other wipes do not break down and can cause tough clogs in toilets, drain pipes, and sewer lines.

Food waste is another common cause of kitchen and bathroom drain clogs, even in households with garbage disposals. Fats like grease and cooking oil can harden in kitchen drain pipes and create a sticky mess that binds to other debris and restricts water flow. Discarding food scraps into a compost bin instead of the sink will help to prevent this. As a bonus, doing so will reduce the need for chemical drain cleaners!

Sediment

Sediment sneaks into drains and pipes, settling and slowly blocking the water flow over time. Fortunately, regular maintenance and professional cleaning prevents this from escalating into severe clogs.

Grease, hair, soap scum, and other household waste stick to the inside lining of your plumbing pipes and over time form a thick, solid blockage. The best way to avoid this is to use drain guards for your showers and sinks, invest in a garbage disposal, and dispose of grease, fat, and oils properly.

Flushing sanitary products and wet wipes down your toilets is another major cause of blocked drains. Similarly, pouring oil and fat down your kitchen sink will lead to a solidified blockage that is almost impossible to break up. A professional plumber can assess your pipes and recommend solutions to prevent these problems. These may include water treatment systems, material changes, or pipe replacement. Professional assessments ensure that preventive measures are effective, saving you from expensive plumbing issues down the road. If you have blocked drains and need professional plumbing services, sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-melbourne/ have a lot of good information to help you out.