Dealing with clogged drains in Gaithersburg can be frustrating and disruptive, especially when they lead to slow water flow, unpleasant odors, or even potential water damage.
At Mallick Plumbing & Heating, we’ve seen firsthand how common household habits contribute to drain blockages. The good news is that most clogs can be prevented with the right practices and regular drain cleaning in Gaithersburg. Below, we’ll explore the most frequent causes of clogged drains and how you can keep your plumbing system flowing smoothly.
If you have any questions or suspect any issues with your home’s drains, please contact us at (301) 804-6759 for immediate assistance!
1. Hair and Soap Buildup in Bathroom Drains
The Problem:
Hair is one of the leading causes of drain clogs, especially in showers and bathroom sinks. When combined with soap scum, hair forms stubborn blockages that slow water drainage over time.
How to Avoid It:
- Use drain covers or strainers in showers and sinks to catch hair before it enters the pipes. These can commonly be found on Amazon or other local stores.
- Clean drain stoppers regularly to remove accumulated hair and debris.
- Flush your drains with hot water and a mixture of baking soda and vinegar every few weeks to help break down soap residue.
2. Grease and Food Waste in Kitchen Sinks
The Problem:
Cooking grease, oil, and food particles are among the biggest culprits behind clogged kitchen drains. Grease may be liquid when poured down the sink, but it solidifies as it cools, sticking to the walls of your pipes and creating stubborn blockages.
How to Avoid It:
- Never pour grease or oil down the sink. Instead, collect it in a disposable container and throw it in the trash.
- Use sink strainers to catch food scraps before they go down the drain.
- Run hot water down the drain after washing greasy dishes to help flush out any lingering residue.
3. Foreign Objects and Non-Flushable Items
The Problem:
Many household drain issues stem from items being flushed or washed down sinks that shouldn’t be. Common culprits include baby wipes, paper towels, cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products, and small toys. These items do not break down easily and can cause major blockages in your pipes.
How to Avoid It:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Even “flushable” wipes can lead to plumbing problems.
- Teach children to keep small objects away from drains and toilets.
- Use waste bins in bathrooms to dispose of items that don’t belong in the toilet.
4. Tree Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines
The Problem:
Tree roots are naturally attracted to the moisture in underground sewer lines. If there are cracks or small openings in your pipes, roots can grow into them, causing severe blockages and even pipe damage.
How to Avoid It:
- Schedule regular sewer line inspections to detect potential root intrusions early.
- Avoid planting trees too close to your sewer line to reduce the risk of root growth into pipes.
- If you suspect a tree root issue, professional drain cleaning in Gaithersburg can help clear the blockage before it causes more damage.
5. Mineral Buildup in Hard Water Areas
The Problem:
Gaithersburg has areas with hard water, meaning there’s a high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals accumulate inside pipes, restricting water flow and leading to persistent clogs.
How to Avoid It:
- Install a water softener to reduce mineral buildup in your plumbing system.
- Schedule periodic professional drain cleaning to remove mineral deposits before they cause severe blockages.
If you have any questions or suspect any issues with your home’s drains, please contact us at (301) 804-6759 for immediate assistance!
How Mallick Plumbing & Heating Can Help
Preventing clogged drains in Gaithersburg is much easier with regular maintenance and proper plumbing habits. However, when a clog does occur, Mallick Plumbing & Heating is here to provide expert solutions. Our professional drain cleaning in Gaithersburg services use advanced tools and techniques, including hydro jetting, to clear even the toughest blockages safely and effectively.
If you’re dealing with slow drains or recurring clogs, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Learn more about our drain cleaning services or check out our coupons page for special offers on plumbing services.
Keep your home’s plumbing flowing smoothly with the help of Mallick Plumbing & Heating—your trusted Gaithersburg drain cleaning experts!