Whether it’s a clogged toilet, a blocked drain pipe or a backed-up septic system, mishaps that affect plumbing systems rank high on most homeowners’ nightmare lists. That’s why it’s so important to get savvy about common causes of clogs and other problems that can affect your home’s plumbing system. In this article, we share tips and insights from a team of clean-drain experts who can help you avoid these issues in the future by knowing what to watch out for.
One of the most obvious signs of a clog is backed-up wastewater in your toilet, shower, bathtub or sink. Backed-up sewage can also cause foul odors throughout your home. Another clue is gurgling noises or bubbling that occurs when water hits the clog, which can create an oxygen bubble and cause more wastewater to back up.
While a clog can start anywhere in the house, many of them occur in the bathroom. That’s because the pipes that carry water and waste in bathrooms are relatively small and can be prone to blockages. In addition, many people unknowingly flush non-flushable objects down the toilet such as paper towels, diapers, dental floss and tampons. And if kids drop a toy down the toilet, it can get stuck and clog the entire drain line.
Kitchen drains are also vulnerable to clogs because of their size and how easily cooking grease can cling to the inside of the pipes. You can prevent these clogs by dumping any kind of grease into an old coffee can and throwing it away instead of down the drain.
Another easy way to prevent clogs is by using a water softener in your home. Hard water contains a lot of minerals that can clog pipes over time. If you’re not using a water softener, you can try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drains. This can dislodge and dissolve the clog to move it down the pipe.
Some clogs can be difficult to fix, particularly if they’re caused by an obstruction or a broken part in the pipe. But if you can spot the problem early, you might be able to use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to dislodge the blockage.
Most of a home’s sewer and water lines are underground and out of sight, making it hard to know when a problem arises. That’s why it’s a good idea to check for signs of a clog regularly, especially if you have young children in the house. It’s also a smart idea to talk to a local plumber about installing a sewer camera inspection, which can show you exactly what is lurking in your pipes. With a little prevention, a few DIY remedies and some preventative knowledge from local plumbers, you can avoid these scary clogs in the future. Good luck!clogged drain