Whenever drains become sluggish and create standing water in showers, tubs and sinks, it’s likely time for drain cleaning. Not only are sluggish drains inconvenient, getting them unclogged usually requires the attention of a professional plumber, especially if they haven’t been cleaned on a consistent basis.
There are several reasons for clogged or sluggish drains. Some are preventable, some may be avoidable with scheduled cleanings, and some will require the equipment used by a licensed plumber.
Clog Considerations
One problem homeowners may not be aware of is tree roots, which find their way into the smallest crevice in a home’s plumbing system. Drawn by the moisture, roots snake their way inside pipes where they’ll grow, resulting in a tangle of roots that prevent water from flowing efficiently. As the roots grow and expand, the pipes will ultimately become clogged and impenetrable.
Kitchen and bathroom sinks, laundry room sinks, bathtubs and showers are all subjected to items that can build up inside the pipes over time and create a coating that slows down the flow of water through the pipes. Soap scum, toothpaste, shaving cream, hair gel, shampoo and laundry detergent are products used either every day that can have a negative effect on drains.
Showers and kitchen sinks have an especially difficult time staying clog-free. Drains not only get clogged with soap and shampoo, they also become sluggish due to hair build-up that acts as a net to capture soap scum and shampoo. In the kitchen, drains are faced with dish soap build-up and food particles that escape down the drain. Add an already sluggish system to this scenario, and you can expect plenty of clogged drains.
Foreign items dropped down the drain are another concern. This can be a small item such as a toothpaste cap, bobby pin or an earring that lodges inside the pipe serving as a barrier and a place for sludge to build up.
Schedule Drain Cleanings
To keep your drains clog-free, create a drain cleaning schedule. This may be once a month or every few months, depending on the amount of water usage and number of people in your home. Check with your plumber about the type of over-the-counter products or natural products you may use, including products you shouldn’t put down the drain.
It’s also a good idea to schedule an annual inspection and cleaning with a plumbing company. A professional plumber will have the equipment necessary to do a high-powered jet spray cleaning or remove sludge build-up or foreign items. Tree roots will require an expert to use specialized equipment that will break through the root system.
It’s wise not to wait until your drains are sluggish to take action. For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
