What Causes a Clogged Drain?

At some point, most people have dealt with a clogged drain. If not addressed, this small concern can lead to significant problems. These problems could include flooding, slow water drainage, and in the worst-case scenario, a sewage backup. By preventing the concern or immediately addressing the issue, you can avoid expensive plumbing costs. Keep reading for some causes of blockages and how a professional plumber can clear them.

Causes of Clogged Drains

Excess Food

It can be all too easy to throw food waste down the drains of kitchen sinks believing that running the garbage disposal will eliminate that waste. Certain waste, like coffee grounds, does not break down even after being run through a garbage disposal. Food waste that does not break down can solidify and block pipes.

Soap Residue

While soap products are necessary for bathing and cleaning, certain types with grease or fat included can damage pipes. When those ingredients and minerals in water combine to create soap scum, your pipes can get blocked.

Hair

Bathroom sinks often clog when hair and shampoo or soap scum bind together. When this happens, water is no longer able to flow through pipes.

Oil & Grease

Cooking oil and grease can obstruct kitchen sinks. When they stick to the pipe walls of the drain and mix with soap scum and food particles, blockages form.

Dislodge a Clog

A professional is your best resource to dislodge clogs properly and for providing advice for preventing future ones. A plumber will use several techniques to clear your sewer line. This line transports water, substances, and objects from your drains to the sewer line that is treated by the city.

Snaking/Rodding

This process uses a cable with a pointed end to remove clogs. Based on the blockage type and location, your plumber will use a snake that is hand — or engine — powered. This technique works best for cleaning sewer lines with one obstruction. 

Hydrojetting

This technique dislodges blockages by using high-pressure water and a flexible hose fitted with a special nozzle. When turned on, the hose sprays water that breaks down any substances or objects, including tree roots that are blocking your pipes.

Power Rodding

This process uses a bendable metal cable that can navigate through sewer lines. A cleaning attachment is connected to the end of the cable and powered by an electric motor. When the motor is turned on, the cleaning head destroys any objects blocking pipes into small bits that can be flushed away.

The professionals at All Clear Pumping & Sewer in Jefferson City, MO, are experts at resolving issues with residential and commercial plumbing. They are equipped to address clogged drains, septic replacement, and excavating, and provide home septic inspections. Their emergency services are available at any time to provide immediate assistance. Visit their website for a detailed list of their services or call (573) 443-2660 to schedule an appointment.