Common Causes of Blocked Drains

January 7, 2019

You depend on your plumbing to drain properly. When it doesn’t, many people go into panic mode. Finding the cause of the clog can be frustrating. Marklein Plumbing offers several plumbing services in Rancho Bernardo and can help you take the stress out of finding and fixing your clogged pipes.

“Flushable” Products

Products that claim to be flushable can still cause blockages in your pipes and require plumbing services. This includes wipes, feminine hygiene products, baby diapers, and facial tissues. Even if a product claims it can be flushed, avoid putting it down the drain or in the toilet.

Tree Roots

The roots of a tree can extend several yards from the trunk, clogging pipes and uprooting sidewalks and your Rancho Bernardo home’s foundation. If the roots make their way into a pipe, they can begin to grow in either direction, causing blockages at any point along their lengths. To remove the tree roots, you may have to remove an entire section of pipe.

Hair

Hair doesn’t break down and can create a netting of sorts, entrapping other types of debris that can create a nasty clog. Drain cleaners can be used but, in most cases, it’s easier to send a snake down the drain and pull the offending mass of goo out of the drain.

Fats/Grease/Oils

While most people know not to dump fats, grease or oils down the drain, small amounts will usually find their way into the pipes. Rinsing the sink with hot water will allow most of the fats to break down and be flushed away, but any that remain will begin to solidify when the heat dissipates.

Objects

Objects, either natural or man-made, can also find their way into your pipes and drains. If an object makes its way down your drain, you may not have the tools you need to remove it on your own. Calling a plumber is normally your best bet.

Damaged or Deteriorating Pipes

As your home in Rancho Bernardo ages, your pipes may deteriorate and become damaged beyond repair. If you don’t know how old your pipes are or what condition they may be in, you will need to call a plumber to clear the clog and make any necessary repairs.

The professional staff at Marklein Plumbing offer plumbing services in Rancho Bernardo and many of the surrounding communities. If you discover a clog, call Marklein Plumbing today!

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