Clogged drains are an inconvenient plumbing mishap often faced by homeowners. Unfortunately, a drain blockage is something that is bound to happen at some point in time during everyday use. When a drain clogs, standing water in the tub or sink will eventually start to emit smelly, unpleasant odors throughout your home. Sometimes the fix is a simple one you can do yourself. Serious blockages usually require the services of a licensed plumbing contractor. Below you will find the most common materials leading to clogged drains.
Kitchen Drains
The kitchen drain is one of the most heavily used drains in the home and is prone to developing a blockage.
- Disposing of unwanted grease down the kitchen sink drain is a surefire way to clog the drain. As the grease or oil cools, it solidifies in the drain, trapping food particles and other debris until it eventually causes a complete blockage.
- Particles of food, especially those heavy in starch like potatoes, rice or pasta, can settle in the P-trap creating a blockage. Coffee grounds are another culprit that can accumulate and stop up your kitchen sink drain.
- Garbage disposals are a convenient device used to grind up kitchen scraps to wash down the drain. However, improper use, such as grinding materials not recommended by the manufacturer, can lead to a clogged drain.
Bathroom Drains
The drain of a bathroom sink is usually of a smaller diameter than the kitchen sink. Because the drainpipe is smaller, it is more susceptible to clogs when used improperly.
- Cosmetics can lead to a clogged bathroom sink drain. When washed down the drain, they can solidify and become a catch-all for other debris as they pass, creating a drain blockage. A common mistake is made by disposing pencil shavings, such as those from eyebrow pencils, down the drain.
- Hair, especially long strands, can clog a sink or tub drain in a minute. They become entangled in the pop-up drain mechanism very easily. You can reduce the chances of a hair blockage by not brushing your hair over the bathroom sink or wearing a shower cap when bathing.
By following the practices above, you can reduce the chances of experiencing clogged drains in your household. Not only can you avoid the inconvenience of clogged drains, but you may also save money by eliminating the costs to unclog them.
For answers to your plumbing questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
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