Top Causes of Clogged Drains & How to Prevent Them – DIY Tips vs. When to Call a Plumber
A clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, backed-up shower, or overflowing toilet, clogged drains can lead to water damage, foul odors, and costly repairs if left untreated.
At PlumberX, we specialize in professional drain cleaning services in Upstate SC, ensuring your plumbing system flows smoothly. In this guide, we’ll break down the top causes of clogged drains, DIY prevention tips, and when to call a professional plumber.
Top Causes of Clogged Drains
Understanding what causes drain blockages can help you take preventative measures to avoid future clogs.
1. Hair Buildup
✔ One of the biggest culprits behind bathroom sink and shower drain clogs.
✔ Strands of hair mix with soap scum, creating a stubborn blockage.
💡 Prevention Tip:
✔ Use a drain strainer or hair catcher in sinks and showers.
✔ Regularly clean out collected hair before it builds up.
2. Soap & Grease Buildup
✔ Soap scum, especially from bar soaps, combines with minerals in water to create sticky residue inside pipes.
✔ Cooking grease and oil solidify in drains, leading to kitchen sink blockages.
💡 Prevention Tip:
✔ Switch to liquid soap or install a water softener to prevent soap scum buildup.
✔ Never pour grease down the drain—dispose of it in a sealed container.
3. Food Waste & Coffee Grounds
✔ Even with a garbage disposal, food scraps, coffee grounds, and starchy foods (like pasta and rice) can clog pipes.
✔ Coffee grounds and starchy foods expand with water, forming thick clogs.
💡 Prevention Tip:
✔ Always scrape food into the trash or compost bin, not the sink.
✔ Use cold water when running the garbage disposal to keep grease solidified and moving through pipes.
4. Flushing Non-Flushable Items
✔ Toilet paper is the only thing that should be flushed (besides waste).
✔ Flushing wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, paper towels, and diapers can cause major sewer backups.
💡 Prevention Tip:
✔ Only flush toilet paper—everything else goes in the trash.
✔ Consider installing a bidet attachment to reduce paper usage and avoid clogs.
5. Tree Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines
✔ Tree roots naturally seek moisture and can grow into underground pipes, causing severe blockages and pipe damage.
✔ This is a common issue in older homes with clay or cracked pipes.
💡 Prevention Tip:
✔ Schedule regular sewer line inspections if you have trees near your plumbing.
✔ If you suspect tree roots in your pipes, call PlumberX for professional hydro jetting and sewer repair.
DIY Tips to Clear a Clogged Drain
If your drain is slow or partially blocked, try these DIY solutions before calling a plumber:
1. Boiling Water Flush
✔ Works best for grease and soap buildup.
✔ Pour a full kettle of boiling water down the drain. Repeat if necessary.
2. Baking Soda & Vinegar
✔ A natural cleaner that helps break down mild clogs.
✔ Pour ½ cup baking soda followed by 1 cup of vinegar down the drain.
✔ Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
3. Plunger Method
✔ Works well for toilets, sinks, and tubs.
✔ Create a tight seal and plunge forcefully for about 30 seconds.
4. Drain Snake (Auger)
✔ Helps remove hair and debris stuck deeper in pipes.
✔ Insert the snake and twist to catch and pull out clogs.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If DIY methods don’t work, or if you experience recurring drain issues, it’s time to call PlumberX for expert drain cleaning.
🚨 Signs You Need Professional Drain Cleaning:
✔ Multiple clogged drains in your home (could indicate a main sewer line blockage).
✔ Foul odors coming from your drains (sign of trapped debris or sewer gas leaks).
✔ Standing water in sinks, tubs, or showers.
✔ Gurgling noises in your pipes or toilet.
✔ Water backing up into other fixtures (like flushing the toilet and water appearing in the bathtub).
At PlumberX, we use advanced drain cleaning techniques, including:
✔ Hydro Jetting – High-pressure water clears stubborn clogs, grease, and tree roots.
✔ Professional Drain Snaking – Removes deep blockages in kitchen, bathroom, and sewer lines.
✔ Video Camera Inspections – Identifies hidden issues like pipe damage and root intrusion.
📞 Need expert drain cleaning in Upstate SC? Call PlumberX 24/7 for fast, reliable service!
Final Thoughts
Clogged drains are a common but preventable plumbing issue. By following simple maintenance tips, avoiding drain-clogging materials, and knowing when to call a professional, you can keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
At PlumberX, we provide affordable, expert drain cleaning and emergency plumbing services in Upstate SC. Don’t let a clogged drain disrupt your home—call us today for fast, same-day service!
🚰 PlumberX – Your Trusted Local Drain Cleaning Experts!