What are the most common types of blocked drains

Blocked drains can be a major inconvenience, causing water to back up into your home and creating unpleasant odours. They can also lead to more serious health and safety issues if not addressed promptly. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common types of blocked drains and what you can do to prevent and resolve them.

Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG)

One of the most common causes of blocked drains is the buildup of fat, oil, and grease (FOG). When FOG is poured down the drain, it solidifies and sticks to the inside of pipes, creating a blockage that can reduce the flow of water and cause water to back up into your home. To prevent FOG-related blockages, avoid pouring grease down the drain and always properly dispose of cooking oils and fats.

Hair and Soap Scum

Another common cause of blocked drains is the buildup of hair and soap scum. Hair can easily get tangled around pipes, causing blockages that can reduce the flow of water. Soap scum can also buildup in pipes, reducing the flow of water and contributing to blockages. To prevent hair and soap scum blockages, use drain covers to prevent hair from entering the pipes and always rinse your drain thoroughly after each use.

Foreign Objects

Foreign objects, such as wipes, sanitary products, and small toys, can also cause blockages in pipes. To prevent foreign object-related blockages, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet and always properly dispose of wipes, sanitary products, and other foreign objects.

Tree Roots

Tree roots can also cause blockages in pipes, especially in older homes with pipes made of clay or other porous materials. Tree roots can grow into pipes, causing blockages that can reduce the flow of water and cause water to back up into your home. To prevent tree root-related blockages, avoid planting trees near pipes and regularly inspect pipes for signs of tree root growth.

Debris and Leaves

Finally, debris and leaves can also cause blockages in pipes, especially during the fall months when leaves are falling from trees. Debris and leaves can clog gutters, causing water to back up into pipes and contributing to blockages. To prevent debris and leaf-related blockages, regularly clean your gutters and remove any leaves or debris that may have fallen into your pipes.

What Can You Do to Prevent and Resolve Blocked Drains?

The best way to prevent and resolve blocked drains is to take proactive measures to keep your drains clear and functioning properly. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of your drains can help to prevent blockages and keep water flowing freely.
• Proper Disposal of Waste: Don’t flush foreign objects such as wipes, sanitary products, and grease down the drain, as they can contribute to blockages in pipes.
• Use Drain Covers: Installing drain covers can help to prevent debris, leaves, and foreign objects from entering your drains and causing blockages.
• Call a Professional: If you suspect that your drain is blocked, it’s important to call a professional plumber who can diagnose the problem and provide a permanent solution.

In conclusion, blocked drains can cause major inconvenience and damage to your home and property. By understanding the most common types of blocked drains and taking proactive measures to prevent and resolve them, you can keep your drains functioning properly and avoid costly repairs. If you suspect that your drain is blocked, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber who can help you diagnose and resolve the problem. The team at Pinnacle Plumbing are on hand and ready to help when you need us.