Blocked drains are a common problem for both households and Infrastructure owners that can cause inconvenience and sometimes even damage to your drainage system. There are many reasons why your drains might get blocked, and in this article, we’ll explore some of the most common causes.
Grease and fat: Grease and fat are some of the most common culprits of blocked drains. When you pour grease or fat down your sink, it can solidify and cling to the inside of your pipes, creating a blockage. To prevent this, avoid pouring grease or fat down your sink and instead dispose of it in another way.
Hair: Hair is another common cause of household blocked drains, especially in the bathroom. As hair accumulates in your pipes, it can create a tangled mess that prevents water from flowing freely. To prevent this, use a drain cover to catch hair and dispose of it in the trash.
Food scraps: Food scraps can also contribute to blocked drains, particularly in the kitchen. Bits of food can get stuck in your pipes and create a blockage over time. To prevent this, use a strainer in your sink and dispose of food scraps in the trash or compost.
Foreign objects: Foreign objects such as baby wipes, cotton buds, and sanitary products can also cause blockages in both the household drains and the sewer mains managed by the water authority. These items do not break down easily and can get caught in your pipes, creating a blockage. To prevent this, only flush toilet paper down the toilet and dispose of other items in the trash.
Tree roots: In some cases, tree roots can grow into your pipes and cause blockages. This is more common with older plumbing systems or pipes that have been damaged. To prevent this, make sure to plant trees and shrubs away from your drainage system and regularly maintain your pipes.
Poor installation: Poorly installed drainage systems can also contribute to blocked drains. If your pipes are not installed at the correct angle or are not connected properly, water can pool in certain areas and create blockages. To prevent this, make sure to have your plumbing system installed by a professional licensed plumber.
In conclusion, blocked drains can be caused by a range of factors, including grease and fat, hair, food scraps, foreign objects, tree roots, and poor installation. By taking steps to prevent these common causes, such as disposing of waste properly and maintaining your plumbing system, you can help keep your drains clear and prevent future blockages. If you do experience a blockage, it’s important to contact a professional licensed plumber to address the issue and prevent further damage to your plumbing system.
