Clogged drains are a common occurrence for many homeowners. The good thing to know is that these problems are easy to prevent. Understanding the common causes of drain blockages will go a long way toward preventing damage.
Toilet Paper Use
Using too much toilet paper can cause severe clogs. The type of toilet tissue most likely to block drains is quilted toilet paper.
Using toilet paper in smaller batches, with several flushes, will prevent clog issues. Buying tissue marked as septic- and sewer-safe can also prevent blockages.
Cat Litter Disposal
Cat litter can be one of the worst materials in a drainage system. The clay, sand, and silica used in most clumping litters absorb water, which can cause a clog.
The best way to dispose of cat litter is to bag it and put it in the trash. Even if you use “natural” cat litter, it should still go in the garbage when disposed of.
Flushing Feminine Products
Feminine products, such as tampons, can clog drains when flushed. Tampons can expand to several times their size because of water absorption.
Because these products never break down, they should be disposed of in the trash. Cotton swabs should also never be flushed.
Small Objects Becoming Stuck
Sometimes, children flush toys down the toilet or drop them in the bowl. Smaller objects often end up in the shower or sink drains by accident.
Younger children need to learn not to flush anything besides human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Drain guards in the shower or sink drains can prevent small objects from entering your pipes.
Baby Wipes Being Flushed
Baby wipes are bulkier than toilet tissue, which might lead to blockages. In some plumbing systems, flushable wipes may cause clogs anyway.
When disposing of baby wipes, the safest place to do so is in the garbage. This principle also applies to wipes for adult use.
Disposing of Food Waste
Food waste accounts for a lot of kitchen sink clogs. You might have this issue even if your sink has a garbage disposal.
Coffee grounds and tea leaves are more bothersome because of their inability to break down. If you don’t want to dispose of all your food waste in the trash, consider setting up a compost bin.
Fat, Grease, and Oil Disposal
Fat, grease, and oil solidify in pipes, creating severe clogs. These include animal-based fats and grease as well as plant-based oils.
Pans with small oil amounts should be patted clean with a paper towel that goes in the trash. More significant grease should be poured into a coffee can or other container that can be disposed of in the garbage.
Drain issues are among some of the most frustrating for homeowners. When you need drain cleaning services, feel free to contact Carlson Plumbing in Fountain Valley, CA.
