When your drain clogs up or breaks, there could be a number of reasons. You could be looking at a rust issue, clogs due to oil, or even a root penetrating your pipes. Here’s a closer look at what could be inside your drains.
Hair
One of the biggest culprits of clogged drains is human hair or pet hair. Hair often gets knotted up and combines with grease or soap. Once it gets stuck inside your shower or sink, you’ll need a professional plumber to come out and to help you unclog it. The best way to minimize this issue is to purchase a hair strainer drain.
Soap
Unfortunately, bar soap contributes to clogged drains. The soap scum builds a layer that starts to reduce the width of your pipes. Eventually, less and less of anything can pass through. In addition, the soap scum often combines with oils, grease, and hair to create a large lump. When you have a clog caused by accumulated soap scum, pressure cleaning is the best way to fix it.
Oil and Grease
When cooking, many people don’t think twice and discard oil down their kitchen drains. This is a big no-no as the oil will solidify later and clog your pipes. Running hot water down your drain may be a temporary solution, but it won’t fix the problem. Call a professional plumber if your drains keep getting clogged. You may need a pressure cleaning to successfully push out all the oil and grease. Before you do your dishes, remember to wipe off any oil with a paper towel, and then throw that paper towel in the trash. You can also pour large amounts of grease directly into your trashcan rather than down your drain.
Food Waste
Some food can’t be broken down and shouldn’t be thrown down drains. Many vegetables, such as bits of celery and cabbage, should go directly in the trash and not down your drain or garbage disposal.
Wipes and Facial Tissue
Never throw wet wipes down your toilet because they can’t be broken down and will eventually cause a blockage. Many people believe they can blow their nose on a Kleenex tissue and then flush it down the toilet. This is a huge mistake because it doesn’t disintegrate the way toilet paper does.
Tree Roots
In Arvada, CO, there are lots of pine trees. In fact, you may have one or two growing near your sewer line. A pine tree’s roots can spread out underground, especially during the summer months when the tree is looking for water. If it happens to knock up against your pipe, it could very well penetrate it and destroy it. A professional plumbing company can pass a camera through your pipes to determine if your clogged drains are due to a tree root.
There may be many things inside your drains that shouldn’t be there. If you’re having drain problems and you need a professional plumber to clean your drains, contact Flatirons Plumbing in Boulder, CO. We provide sewer line services, drain cleaning services, bathroom plumbing services, and more.
