Introduction
Dealing with a blocked drain is a common household nuisance that can lead to other issues such as foul odours, slow drainage and costly repair if left untreated. Dealing with domestic blocked drains as a matter of urgency is very important to stop further damage. Understanding the most common causes of domestic blocked drains and how to prevent them can help homeowners with preventing future blockages.
If you have a blocked drain and require an emergency drain unblocking service, call our professionals on 0330 133 1625.
Within this article, we will cover the 6 most common causes of domestic drain blockages and how to avoid them. Read our article understanding domestic drain blockages for more information on domestic blocked drains.
1. Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG)
One of the leading causes of domestic drain blockages is the buildup of fat, oil, and grease (FOG). These substances may enter the drainage system in liquid form, but as they cool, they solidify and stick to the walls of the pipes, leading to blocked drains.
Common Sources:
- Cooking oils and fats from frying
- Butter, margarine, and lard
- Sauces and gravies
Prevention Tips:
- Dispose of excess oil and grease in a separate container rather than pouring it down the sink.
- Use a drain strainer to catch food particles.
- Regularly flush drains with hot water and mild detergent to break down minor buildups.
2. Hair and Soap Scum
Hair and soap residue can combine to form tough clogs in bathroom drains, particularly in showers, bathtubs, and sinks.
How It Happens:
- Hair gets caught in the drain, creating a net-like structure that traps other debris.
- Soap scum sticks to the hair, further solidifying the blockage.
- Over time, the buildup becomes difficult to remove without professional assistance.
Prevention Tips:
- Install a drain cover to catch hair before it enters the pipes.
- Regularly clean drains and remove visible hair from drains.
- Use a vinegar and baking soda solution to break down soap scum buildup.
3. Food Waste
Even with a garbage disposal unit, food waste should never be washed down the drain carelessly. Some food particles do not break down easily and can accumulate in the pipes, leading to blockages.
Problematic Food Items:
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Starchy foods (rice, pasta, and potato peels)
Prevention Tips:
- Dispose of food waste in the bin or compost.
- Avoid rinsing large food particles down the sink.
- Rinse plates and utensils thoroughly before washing.
4. Foreign Objects
Items that are accidentally or improperly flushed down the toilet or sink can cause serious blockages.
Common Offenders:
- Wet wipes and baby wipes (even if labelled “flushable”)
- Sanitary products and cotton pads
- Small toys and other household objects
Prevention Tips:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste.
- Dispose of sanitary products, wipes, and cotton swabs in a waste bin.
- Educate children about what should and shouldn’t go down the drain.
5. Tree Roots
For homes with outdoor drainage systems, tree roots can be a major cause of blockages. Roots naturally seek out moisture and can infiltrate small cracks in pipes, eventually growing into larger obstructions.
Signs of Root Intrusion:
- Slow drainage across multiple fixtures
- Gurgling sounds from pipes
- Unpleasant odours in outdoor drains
Prevention Tips:
- Regularly inspect your drainage system, especially if you have large trees near your property.
- Use root barriers to prevent tree roots from growing into pipes.
- Seek professional CCTV drain inspections and maintenance.
6. Scale and Mineral Buildup
In areas with hard water, scale and mineral deposits can accumulate in pipes, reducing water flow and eventually leading to blockages.
How It Happens:
- Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium.
- Over time, these minerals form deposits on pipe walls.
- The narrowing of pipes slows drainage and increases the risk of clogs.
Prevention Tips:
- Install a water softener to reduce mineral buildup.
- Regularly flush pipes with vinegar or a commercial descaling solution.
- Schedule professional drain descaling treatments if you notice reduced water flow.
Conclusion
Understanding the common causes of domestic blocked drains can help homeowners prevent issues with their drainage system and save money on costly repairs. Understanding the signs of a blocked drain can also be important to the process and knowing when to call a professional drain cleaning or drain unblocking company. Changing some simple habits such as disposing of waste, grease or oils down sinks or drains can save money in the long run. Regular maintenance is always recommended to keep drainage systems in good working order and prevent issues.
Blocked Drains Dorchester are a professional, reliable team covering Dorchester, Dorset and the surrounding areas. If you are looking for advice and guidance or require an emergency drain unblocking service, contact our team.