The Gunk You Can’t See: What’s Really Clogging Your Drains

Have you ever wondered what’s causing clogged drains in your home? Like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about the condition of your drains until you’re faced with a stubborn clog. So, if you’re wondering what might be clogging your drains, read on.

Neighborhood Plumbing is a professional plumbing company that specializes in drain cleaning. In today’s blog post, we’ll explore the common causes of clogged drains. Remember, we are the trusted plumbers to call when you need professional drain line services.

Grease and Oil in the Kitchen

One of the most common reasons kitchen drains clog is grease and oil. When hot grease is poured down the sink, it may seem harmless at first, but as it cools, it solidifies and sticks to the inside of your pipes. There’s a widespread myth out there that washing it down with hot water will prevent buildup, but that only pushes the grease farther along until it cools and hardens again. The best way to dispose of grease and oil is to let it cool, pour it into a sealed container or jar, and throw it in the trash.

Food Scraps and Starches

Along with grease, food scraps contribute to clogged kitchen drains. Rice, pasta, and bread-based foods expand in water, while fibrous vegetables like celery and potato peels tend to wrap around other debris. A good rule of thumb is to scrape leftover food into the trash or compost before rinsing dishes in the sink. If you’ve noticed a persistent foul odor coming from your kitchen drains, call a local plumbing repair service for help.

Hair and Soap Scum in Bathroom Drains

In bathrooms, clogs usually come from a mix of hair and soap scum. Each time you shower, strands of hair slide down the drain, creating a tangled mess. While liquid drain cleaners may seem like an easy fix, they provide only temporary relief and can damage your pipes. It’s best to schedule professional drain cleaning service with a local company instead of relying on harsh liquid chemical cleaners.

The Toilet and Non-Flushable Items

Many of us tend to treat our toilets as a trash can. The toilet might seem like an invisible disposal system that can handle just about anything you flush, but in reality, it’s only designed for human waste and toilet paper. Things like baby wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products do not break down like toilet paper. Instead, they collect inside the pipes, forming clogs that can lead to overflows and unpleasant messes. Even so-called flushable wipes take too long to break down and can block your sewer line. Sticking to toilet paper only is the best way to keep your toilet clog-free. If you find yourself dealing with recurring toilet clogs, seek professional help from a reliable plumbing repair service.

Tree Roots and Old Pipes

Older drain lines can develop corrosion and scale buildup that narrow the pipes, making clogs more frequent. These types of clogs can’t be solved with a plunger or store-bought cleaner and require professional equipment to clear. Get in touch with a local plumber when you find yourself dealing with pipe damage.

Got Clogged Drains? Contact Neighborhood Plumbing for All Your Drain Cleaning Needs

Knowing when to call a professional plumber in Pittsburgh, PA to clean your drains is crucial. If you notice a foul odor coming from your drains or slow-draining fixtures, it’s time to contact Neighborhood Plumbing. Our skilled plumbers will not only address the immediate issue but also provide you with expert advice to prevent future blockages. We use state-of-the-art tools and techniques, including hydro jetting machines and video line inspection, to deliver effective drain cleaning solutions. Contact Neighborhood Plumbing today!