A clogged drain now and again is annoying to deal with but generally no cause for concern. However, if you’re finding that these clogs are becoming more than a rare occurrence, it could be a sign of bigger issues.
Identifying the Cause of Common Drain Clogs
The most common cause of drain clogs is debris and residue buildup somewhere in your pipes. From coffee grinds to bacon grease, we have a habit of flushing just about anything that fits down our sinks without much thought as to what happens after. Unfortunately, there is a litany of kitchen scraps that really should not be rinsed away. Examples of things that should never go down the sink include coffee grounds, cooking oils and grease, rice and pasta, fibrous vegetable peels, and eggshells.
The good news is these types of drain clogs are usually easy to find and quick to fix. While it’s best to avoid harsh chemical cleansers which can damage your pipes, a simple solution of baking soda, vinegar, and warm water could be enough to dissolve the clog and get your water flowing. Otherwise, you can call in a pro who will use drainage camera inspection to detect and remove the blockage.
When Drain Clogs Signal a Bigger Issue
Frequent drain clogs, constantly slow-draining sinks, foul odours, and backups are all signs that you could be dealing with something more serious than a food debris clog. These issues may be a red flag that there are unseen issues deeper within your plumbing system, like tree root intrusion, collapsed pipes, or severe blockages further down the line.
Root Intrusion
Tree roots may not be the first thing that comes to mind when trying to uncover the source of a persistent drain clog, but they can be surprisingly apt at finding their way into your plumbing.
Over time it’s not uncommon for tiny cracks in your pipes, especially around joints. These cracks provide the perfect opening for tree roots, and once inside, they continue to grow, restricting water flow, trapping debris, and eventually completely blocking your pipe. And the worst part is, you might not even know it’s happening until your drains start acting up.
Exterior signs of root intrusion may include wet areas on your lawn, but using a drainage camera to inspect the pipe is the best way to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.
Collapsed Pipe
A collapsed pipe is exactly what it sounds like a section of your pipe has caved in, making it impossible for water to pass through. This could be due to old age, shifting soil, or pressure from above. When a pipe collapses, you’ll likely experience persistent clogs, slow drains, or even backups.
Unfortunately, this is one of the more serious drainage issues, and a collapsed pipe often requires excavation and replacement (although there are some options for dig-free pipe replacement). A drainage camera inspection can confirm the location and extent of the pipe damage and your plumbing contractor can then put together a replacement plan.
Severe Blockage
Sometimes, it’s not just a little food buildup causing your problems, it’s a lot. A severe blockage happens when a significant amount of debris, grease, or even foreign objects accumulate over time, fully obstructing the pipe. This kind of blockage can lead to slow draining, backups, or worst-case scenario, possibly even a burst pipe. Using a drainage camera, professionals can locate the exact spot of the blockage and figure out the best way to clear it, whether that’s through hydrojetting or manual removal.
When it comes to persistent drain clogs, a drainage camera inspection is the easiest way to get to the bottom of things without the guesswork. It’s a quick, non-invasive solution that can save you from much bigger headaches down the road!
