Top 10 Causes of Clogged Drains and How to Prevent Them

Top 10 Causes of Clogged Drains and How to Prevent Them

Clogged drains are a common household nuisance that can cause major headaches. Understanding the culprits behind these pesky blockages is the first step to preventing them. Let’s dive into the top 10 causes of clogged drains and how you can keep your pipes flowing smoothly.

The Top 10 Culprits

1. Hair: Hair is a notorious clog culprit, especially in bathrooms.

• Prevention: Install a drain cover or hair catcher to trap hair before it enters the drain. Regularly clean these to prevent buildup.

2. Soap Scum: The combination of soap and minerals can create a sticky, slimy buildup.

• Prevention: Opt for mild soaps and consider using natural cleaning alternatives. Regular drain cleaning with BioOne Drain Cleaner can help dissolve soap scum.

3. Grease and Oil: These substances solidify in pipes, causing clogs.

• Prevention: Let grease and oil cool before disposing of them in the trash. Wipe pans with paper towels before washing to remove excess grease.

4. Food Waste: Scraps from the kitchen sink can build up and block drains. Typically the food that gets put in a garbage disposal creates a sludge of grease and food debris that gets caught in your lines.

• Prevention: Use a sink strainer to catch food particles. Avoid pouring large amounts of food down the drain. Garbage disposals also create a false sense of security. Try to dispose of food waste in the trash.

5. Foreign Objects: Everything from cotton swabs to toys can find their way into drains.

• Prevention: Be mindful of what goes down the drain. Items that are advertised as flushable or able to go down drains may be causing you issues!

6. Toilet Paper and Hygiene Products: While designed to dissolve, excessive amounts can cause issues.

• Prevention: Avoid flushing wipes, feminine hygiene products, and other non-flushable items. We find that the these products usually accumulate overtime in drainage systems and take time to show their problems. 

7. Mineral Buildup: Over time, mineral deposits can narrow pipes and reduce water flow. The constriction of pipes that mineral deposits cause not only reduce water flow but create a barrier for debris to get caught in and create clogs which lead to backups.

• Prevention: Regular drain cleaning can help remove mineral buildup. Consider water softeners and or a video camera inspection to see if you have any mineral deposits in you lines.

8. Tree Roots: Tree roots can penetrate pipes and cause severe blockages.

• Prevention: Regular inspections and professional hydro-jetting maintenance can help prevent this issue. Certain products that you can buy help prevent root problems but also may cause damage to you lines.

9. Debris and Dirt: Outdoor drains can become clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris.

• Prevention: Regularly clean outdoor drains and gutters to prevent clogs.

10. Aging Pipes: Old pipes can be more prone to clogs due to corrosion and wear.

• Prevention: While you can’t replace old pipes overnight, regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan.

Preventative Measures

• Regular Drain Maintenance: Use a drain snake or commercial drain cleaner to clear minor clogs.
• Professional Drain Cleaning: Schedule regular inspections and cleanings to prevent major issues.
• Plumbing Inspections: Check for leaks, cracks, or other problems that could contribute to clogs.
• Proper Disposal: Be mindful of what you put down your drains.

By understanding the common causes of clogged drains and implementing preventive measures, you can save yourself from plumbing headaches and potential costly repairs.