Whether you’re washing dishes or taking a shower, a drain clog can make it difficult to perform daily tasks. Depending on the severity of the clog, you may have to schedule professional drain cleaning services. Below is a comprehensive overview of what causes clogs and how you can decrease their likelihood to protect your plumbing system.

3 Common Causes of Drain Clogs

1. Hair 

Hair is one of the most common causes of clogged drains. Whether you’re in the shower or brushing your hair over the sink, the strands become tangled in the drain and collect soap scum, eventually leading to blockages. Installing a drain guard can help trap any hair before it reaches the drain. Remove and clean the guard once a week to avoid buildup. 

2. Oil & Grease

Grease and oil should never be poured down the kitchen drain or garbage disposal. Once the hot liquid solidifies, it will coagulate and stick in the pipes, eventually preventing water from moving through them. Always pour these liquids into a container and wait for them to cool before tossing them in the trash. If the grease is too thick, consult a drain cleaning service to either use a hydrojet to cut through the blockage or conduct a drain line cleaning to dislodge the clumps. 

3. Leftover Food

Be careful with leftover food, as certain types can cause problems for your drain. For instance, pasta noodles will continue to expand in the pipes when exposed to hot water, causing them to stick together and block water flow. Egg shells, coffee grounds, and chunks of fruits and vegetables are other food items that should always be thrown in the garbage. 

When it’s time to schedule drain cleaning for your home, turn to the team at A Plus Sewer Service. For over 30 years, this family-owned and -operated business has provided a variety of high-quality offerings, including sewer pumping, drain cleaning, septic tank installations, and plumbing services. They also offer 24-hour emergency plumbing solutions. Call (845) 294-6103 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for a full list of their services.