The Unexpected Causes of Blocked Drains You’ve Probably Overlooked
Blocked drains can cause real headaches if not addressed quickly. But while hair, grease, and soap scum are the usual suspects, there are other surprising culprits that could be wreaking havoc in your pipes. Understanding what causes blocked drains can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your plumbing in top shape. Here are some unexpected causes of blocked drains you may have missed.
Foreign Objects
It’s easy to blame everyday buildup for clogs, but sometimes the issue lies deeper. Small toys, jewellery, cotton buds, and other foreign objects can accidentally fall into sinks or toilets. These items don’t break down and can block water flow.
Kids are notorious for experimenting with flushing things they shouldn’t. If your water starts draining slowly, it might be worth considering what could be stuck out of sight. These kinds of blockages often require professional help, such as blocked drain pipe relining, to restore the pipes without invasive digging.
Tree Roots–– Nature’s Sneaky Intruders
Tree roots are one of the more unexpected signs of blocked drains. Even small cracks or loose joints in your pipes can attract roots searching for moisture. Once inside, they expand and form a tangled mess that prevents water from passing through.
Tree roots can cause serious damage and aren’t easy to remove with simple tools. If you notice gurgling sounds, slow drainage, or unpleasant smells, tree roots could be the cause. Addressing this issue quickly can prevent further damage and ensure your drains stay clear.
Soap Residue
You might not think twice about your favourite soap, but traditional bars often contain fats and oils that can build up over time. This residue combines with minerals in your water, forming a solid mass that restricts drainage.
Switching to liquid soap can help reduce this buildup. If your drains are already slow, a professional can clear the block and provide tips on avoiding future soap-related clogs.
Cooking Oils and Fats
Pouring cooking oil, grease, and fats down the sink might seem harmless when they’re still warm. But as they cool, they solidify and cling to the sides of your pipes. Over time, they trap food particles and debris, leading to a full blockage.
To avoid this, always let oils and fats cool and dispose of them in the bin. If you’re dealing with slow or blocked drains, it’s likely a buildup of grease is part of the problem.
Toiletries and Personal Care Products
Wet wipes, cotton balls, and dental floss might seem flushable, but they don’t break down like toilet paper. These products can snag on pipe joints and other debris, causing clogs that build up over time.
One of the key signs of blocked drains caused by toiletries is slow-flushing toilets or water backing up into sinks and showers. Be mindful of what you flush, and always dispose of non-flushable items in a bin.
The Most Common Cause––Hair
Hair is a well-known culprit, but its ability to form tight, web-like clogs makes it worth mentioning. Hair combines with soap and other debris, creating a dense blockage that standard plunging might not resolve.
Installing drain covers in your shower and bathroom sink can help catch hair before it reaches your pipes. Regularly cleaning these covers can prevent unexpected blockages.
Signs of Blocked Drains You Shouldn’t Ignore
Recognising the early signs of blocked drains can save you from bigger issues. Look out for:
- Water draining slower than usual
- Gurgling sounds from your drains
- Foul odours coming from sinks or showers
- Water pooling around drains or toilets
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.
Blocked drains can have more causes than you might expect. Knowing what causes blocked drains, from foreign objects to tree roots, helps you stay proactive. If you need expert help, whether it’s for a stubborn clog or blocked drain pipe relining, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Keeping an eye on these unexpected causes will ensure your drains stay clear and your plumbing works smoothly.
