Common Causes of Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are more than just an inconvenience; they can pose a serious threat to your home and health. At the first sign of a clog or backup, it’s crucial to call a MillTown Plumbing professional to evaluate the situation. When wastewater can’t exit your property, it will begin overflowing through your drains, leading to standing water, waste, and other contaminants in sinks, toilets, and showers. This is not only unhealthy but can also result in costly water damage.

Common Causes of Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can be a major inconvenience in your home. While they may not always be avoidable, understanding the common causes can help you prevent them:

• Offset Pipes: If your plumbing is old, it might have shifted over time. Ground movements, such as heavy rains or animals burrowing nearby, can alter the support structure of your pipes. Old concrete and clay pipes are particularly at risk of becoming offset.
• Tree Roots: One of the most common causes of clogs is tree roots. As roots grow in search of water, they may invade your pipes. The larger the roots grow, the more damage they can inflict on your plumbing system.
• Grease: Grease buildup happens quickly, especially in kitchen drains. As it cools and hardens on its way down the pipes, it constricts their diameter, trapping other debris and leading to clogs.
• Soap: Soap residue from bathrooms and laundry rooms can accumulate over time, causing blockages similar to grease.

Items You Should Never Put Down Your Drains

One of the leading causes of clogged drains is foreign objects that become lodged in the pipes. It might seem convenient to dispose of household wastes down the drain, but doing so can have long-lasting, negative effects. Improper disposal can result in clogs, backed-up drains, and other malfunctions, leading to costly repairs. Here are some items you should never introduce into your plumbing system:

• Diapers, Flushable Wipes, and Feminine Hygiene Products
• Hair and Dental Floss
• Fats, Oils, and Grease
• Paper Towels, Cotton Balls, and Swabs
• Motor Oil, Transmission Fluid, and Antifreeze
• Coffee Grounds
• Egg Shells, Bones, or Hard Foods
• Stickers or Band-Aids

Drain Cleaning Services in Chelmsford, MA

We understand that accidents happen. In the event of a clog, don’t hesitate to call MillTown Plumbing. One of our trained professionals will locate the source of the clog and get your plumbing back to working condition in no time.

For all your plumbing needs, call MillTown today!