Have you ever found yourself dealing with a drain that keeps on clogging? It’s frustrating, inconvenient, and undeniably messy. The good news is that these recurring problems usually have specific causes—and once you understand them, you can take the right steps to prevent future clogs.
As an experienced drain-clearing service, we’ve seen it all. From grease buildup to poorly installed pipes, we’re here to explain the most common reasons for persistent clogs and offer practical solutions to keep your drains running smoothly.
Common Reasons Your Drain Keeps Clogging
Improper Drain Pitch or Reverse Pitch
Drains rely on gravity to move water and waste away. If your pipes don’t have the proper pitch—or worse, have a reverse pitch—waste can sit in the pipe instead of flowing out. Over time, this leads to blockages as solids like hair and grease build up.
Pipe Bellies
A “belly” in the pipe occurs when a section of the pipe sags. This creates a low spot where waste collects instead of flowing freely. Pipe bellies are particularly common in older homes or properties with shifting foundations.
Everyday Culprits for Clogged Drains
Grease from Cooking
Pouring grease down the kitchen sink is a surefire way to create a stubborn clog. As grease cools, it hardens and sticks to the walls of your pipes, trapping other debris. Instead of pouring grease down the drain:
- Pour it into a soup can and let it solidify in the fridge before tossing it in the trash.
- Use aluminum foil to create a makeshift container, line it with a paper towel, and dispose of the grease safely.
Hair and Conditioner
Hair is one of the most common contributors to clogged bathroom drains. Long hair, in particular, can bind with soap scum and conditioner, creating a thick, sticky mess. Conditioner is especially problematic because it clings to the walls of your pipes. To prevent hair buildup:
- Install a hair snare in your shower or tub drain.
- Use a drain cleaning tool, like a zipper stick, to remove hair regularly.
“Flushable” Wipes and Paper Towels
Despite their name, flushable wipes are anything but flushable. They don’t break down like toilet paper and often get caught in pipes, especially old cast iron ones. To avoid blockages:
- Toss flushable wipes and paper towels in the trash instead of flushing them.
- Stick to flushing only toilet paper.
Why Older Pipes Are More Prone to Clogs
If your home has older cast iron pipes, they’re more likely to cause issues. Cast iron pipes have a rough interior surface that can snag debris like toilet paper, grease, and hair. By contrast, newer PVC or ABS pipes are smooth, allowing waste to flow more easily.
For older systems, regular maintenance is essential. A professional can run a cable through the drain to clean it mechanically, ensuring it flows properly.
Avoiding Chemical Drain Cleaners
While chemical drain cleaners might seem like a quick fix, they can cause long-term damage. Over time, these harsh chemicals can corrode older cast iron pipes, leading to costly repairs. Instead, opt for safer, non-toxic alternatives like enzyme-based cleaners.
The Benefits of Enzyme Cleaners
One highly recommended product is an enzyme cleaner like Bio-Clean. When mixed with water and poured down the drain, enzymes break down grease, hair, and soap scum naturally. After your drains are mechanically cleaned, treating them with an enzyme cleaner can help keep them clear and functioning like new.
Steps to Keep Your Drains Clear
To prevent clogs and keep your drains running smoothly, follow these tips:
- Dispose of grease properly: Use containers or aluminum foil instead of pouring grease down the drain.
- Catch hair: Install hair traps in bathroom drains and clean them regularly.
- Avoid flushing wipes: Toss “flushable” wipes and paper towels in the trash.
- Maintain your drains: Use enzyme cleaners periodically to break down buildup.
- Schedule professional cleaning: If your drain keeps clogging, hire a professional to mechanically clean your pipes and assess for underlying issues.
In Summary
If your drain keeps clogging, it’s essential to address the root cause rather than relying on temporary fixes. From grease and hair buildup to improper pipe installation, understanding the problem is the first step toward a lasting solution. At [Dick Ray], we specialize in professional drain clearing services to keep your home running smoothly.
Contact us today to schedule your drain cleaning and put an end to recurring clogs once and for all.
