If you find that your drains frequently clog, it may help to understand why it is happening. With many drain clogs, there is often an underlying problem that can be remedied. With that in mind, here are the three most common causes of drain clogs.
Soap Buildup
Unfortunately, one of the most common substances to go down your drain is often the very thing that clogs it up. Over time, soap can build up and harden on your pipes as it is carried down the drain. As this buildup grows, the diameter of your pipe is decreased, making a clogged drain more likely to happen.
Grease Buildup
Grease builds up on the surface of your pipe just like soap except it builds up much faster. When hot grease is poured down your drain, it will quickly cool and solidify, causing a clog in little time at all. Because of this, grease buildup is the most common cause of clogs in kitchen sinks. If possible, it's always best to avoid pouring grease down your drain.
Tree Roots
One of the most common causes of drain clogs is tree roots. If an old sewer pipe is cracked or has any separation in the joints, tree roots can actually grow into these crevices in search of the nutrients within. Once they've begun growing inside the pipe, though, these roots drastically decrease the amount of flow that is allowed through the pipe. In addition to this, if your pipes are made of clay or concrete, the force exerted by growing roots can actually crush the pipe, which will also lead to a clogged drain.
How to Fix a Clogged Drain
While chemicals designed to unclog a drain can work in some instances, it's best to avoid using them. These chemicals can actually damage your pipes if overused, leading to a bigger problem than the one they are designed to fix. What's more, for serious clogs, they will be largely ineffective.
To best fix your clogged drain, we recommend you enlist the help of professionals. A Pittsburgh plumber will be able to employ effective techniques such as hydro-jetting and cabling solutions to clear the buildups in your pipe. If you would like to quickly and effectively deal with your clogged drain, we invite you to contact the professionals at Stahl Plumbing today.