Why Your Drain Keeps Clogging (Even After You Clear It)
Do you have a drain in your Sacramento, CA, home that always seems to be problematic? Even with preventive drain cleaning, clogs continue to form. There are several reasons why this can happen, including poor plumbing installation and incorrectly using your drains. Our team at Drain Time Plumbing can help prevent drain clogs, remove them, and come up with a long-term solution.
Addressing Symptom Fixes
A lot of times, homeowners will address a drain that keeps clogging with a plunger or store-bought chemical drain cleaner. While it may seem like this addresses the clogged drain causes, another clog returns in a short amount of time. This is often because of symptom fixes rather than addressing the root cause of the problem. Also, chemical-based drain cleaners can do more harm than good. They are caustic and can damage the interior of your pipes. Debris may have an easier time catching on the sides of your pipes and causing blockages.
Buildup Inside Your Pipes
Over time, there are several types of materials that can build up inside your pipes. This includes grease, fats, oils, soap scum, and hair. This buildup needs to be prevented as much as possible. However, it should also be professionally removed at least once per year.
A professional can perform drain cleaning using augers or hydro jetting. This safely removes debris while protecting the rest of your plumbing system.
You can prevent buildup in your pipes by being careful about what goes down your drains. Whenever possible, put hair, food scraps, oils, and other materials into your garbage can. You can periodically use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to help loosen material inside your pipes. Make sure you run hot water through your drains for several minutes afterwards to push debris out into your sewer system.
Shifting Pipes
Pipes can settle and shift over time. This can be the result of tree root intrusion or soil changes. A professional inspection can catch shifting pipes early. Prompt repairs can help you avoid problems, such as frequent drain clogs.
Partial Sewer Blockages
Partial sewer blockages can be the result of tree roots growing through pipes, grease buildup, or non-flushable items accumulating inside pipes. Even mineral deposits can cause problems if you live in an area with hard water. Eventually, minerals will harden and narrow the pipes so that it becomes harder for debris to pass through.
Professional drain cleaning can sometimes fix these problems. However, frequent clogs may require plumbing modifications or replacements.
Old and Damaged Pipes
As pipes age, they can shift, sag, and narrow. They can also experience corrosion. If your home is currently more than 40 years old and you’re experiencing persistent drain clogs, schedule a professional inspection. It may be time to replace certain areas of your plumbing system.
Vent Stack Problems
Your plumbing system has a venting system that helps introduce small amounts of air into it. This air helps water flow smoothly and prevents vacuum pressure. If this vent becomes blocked by leaves, debris, or damage, you may experience frequent drain clogs. Clearing the area is a simple way to resolve clogs without having to use more invasive methods of repair.
A Malfunctioning Garbage Disposal
If the garbage disposal in your kitchen sink isn’t working properly, clogs can form. A disposal can grind up items so that they pass easily through your pipes. However, weak or damaged impeller blades can leave items large, resulting in them getting stuck. A professional can inspect your garbage disposal to spot signs of problems. It may be time to upgrade your disposal if your current unit isn’t doing a sufficient job.
Incorrect Pipe and Drain Installation
When a home is first built, a plan must be made for all the pipes, drains, and fixtures that will be installed. Incorrect installation or poor planning can impact your plumbing system for years to come. Your pipes may not slope enough, which prevents ample flow of water. Pipes that slope too much can result in debris accumulating in certain high-flow areas. Water can outrun the solids as well, leaving them behind.
Make sure you can spot the warning signs of a drain clog. This includes foul odors, slow-moving drains, and backups. Our team can perform professional drain cleaning, emergency repairs and help determine why your drain is frequently clogging.
Contact us at Drain Time Plumbing for drain cleaning in Sacramento.
