Drain blockages are one of the most common and annoying plumbing issues that homeowners face. They can cause water to back up, overflow, or emit foul odors. They can also damage your pipes and fixtures and create health hazards.
To avoid these problems, you need to prevent drain blockages from happening in the first place. Let’s look at some tips to prevent drain blockages. By implementing these tips and tricks, you can maintain a smooth-flowing drainage system and avoid the headaches caused by stubborn clogs.
Understanding the Causes of Drain Blockages
Clogged drains are a frequent and annoying plumbing problem that can cause water to reverse, spill, or stink. They can also harm your pipes and fittings and pose health risks.
But what leads to clogged drains in the first place? Let’s examine the various causes that can result in blocked drains, and how you can avoid them from occurring.
1. Accumulation of Debris
Drain blockages are commonly due to the deposit of debris over time. Occasionally, the causes of drain clogs are things like toys, jewelry, or even small household items that can accidentally end up in the drains. These objects can get stuck within the pipes, blocking the water flow and creating blockages. It’s vital to be careful and stop items from getting into your plumbing system.
As debris builds up, they can create obstructions, reducing water flow and eventually causing a complete blockage.
2. Tree Root Infiltration
In some cases, drain blockages can be caused by tree root infiltration into underground pipes. Tree roots seek moisture and nutrients within the pipes, and as they expand, they can crack or break the pipes resulting in a clogged drain. This issue is more common in older plumbing systems or properties with extensive tree roots nearby.
3. Poor Drainage Design
Poor slope or drainage design can also contribute a lot to creating drain clogs. If the pipes are not arranged with the right slope or if there are design errors that prevent the easy flow of water, it can cause stillness and the buildup of dirt. Over time, this still water turns into a source of blockages.
4. Fatty Deposits
Pouring grease down the drain may seem convenient, but it can lead to significant drain blockages. Grease solidifies as they cool, sticking to the inside of the drain pipes that will capture other debris.
Over time, this buildup of fatty deposits restricts the water flow and can result in stubborn clogs that require professional intervention.
Preventing Drain Blockages: Tips from the Professionals
Clogged drains are a frequent and annoying plumbing problem that can cause water to reverse, spill, or stink. They can also harm your pipes and fittings and pose health risks.
To prevent these issues, here are some tips recommended by expert plumbers.
1. Regular Drain Maintenance
Regular drain maintenance is key to preventing blockages. This includes routine cleaning and flushing of drains using natural or commercially available drain cleaners.
By keeping the drains clear of debris and buildup, you can maintain optimal water flow and reduce the risk of clogs.
2. Garbage Disposal
Proper waste disposal plays a significant role in preventing drain blockages. Avoid pouring grease, fat, or oil as they can solidify and cause obstructions. Instead, allow these substances to cool and dispose of them in the garbage.
Additionally, consider using drain strainers or screens to catch debris so that they don’t clog the drain.
3. Mindful Landscaping
If you have trees near your property, it's essential to be mindful of their proximity to underground pipes. Consult with professionals to determine the location of your pipes and consider adjusting your landscaping plans accordingly.
To remove tree roots in blocked drains, there are a few ways that can be applied.
One is to chop the roots physically using a drain auger or a root cutter. Another is to use chemical root destroyers such as copper sulfate or foaming products that can break down the roots and stop them from growing back. A third option is to use hydro-jetting, which is a high-pressure water spray that can clear away the roots and any other dirt in the pipe. However, these ways may not work if the roots have caused serious damage to the pipe, in which case the pipe may need to be fixed or changed.
If you want to stop tree roots from blocking your drains, you should not plant trees close to your sewer line, or pick trees that have less invasive root systems. You should also check your sewer line often and call a skilled plumber if you see any signs of root invasion.
4. Professional Inspections
Periodic professional inspections of your drainage system can help in identification of minor issues that can turn into major drain problems.
Professional plumbers in the East Valley use specialized tools to inspect the condition of your pipes and identify drain blockages or damage. Early detection can save you from costly repairs and inconveniences in the future.
Conclusion
Drain blockages are a nuisance that can disrupt your daily routine and cause serious trouble. But they are also preventable if you know how to take care of your drains.
By following the professional tips we shared in this article, you can prevent drain blockages and keep your drains clean and functional. You can also save yourself from the hassle and expense of calling a plumber.
Remember, prevention is better than cure when it comes to drain blockages. Proactive measures and a little extra care can go a long way in maintaining a healthy and efficient drainage system.
Contact Mesa Plumbing Company for Resolving Draining Problems
Are you seeking plumbing services in the East Valley? You can contact Mesa Plumbing Company. With deep roots in Mesa serving Arizonians for over six decades, our reliable plumbers carry forward generations of experience to ensure your plumbing requirements are met with excellence.
Choose Mesa, where tradition seamlessly combines with expertise. For more information, visit our website mesaplumbingcompany.com.