- Fats, Oils, and Grease:
Animal fats, cooking oils, and grease are notorious for clogging waste lines. Avoid pouring them down the sink. While hot, they might flow easily, but once they cool, they solidify and create blockages. To prevent this, allow them to cool and dispose of them in a separate container or wipe them up and compost them.
2. Toilet Paper and Other Paper Products:
While excessive toilet paper may occasionally lead to blockages, other paper products pose a greater risk for drain cleaning issues. Paper towels, wet wipes, napkins, and tissues do not break down as easily as toilet paper. Once these items enter your pipes, they can form traps that accumulate debris and impede the smooth flow of water. It’s important to avoid flushing these items to prevent potential clogs and the need for drain cleaning services.
3. Kitchen Waste:
Most food waste should never enter your waste lines. This includes plate scraps and cooking waste, as well as coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, and rice. These substances negatively interact with water and plumbing systems, leading to inevitable problems. For tips on keeping your kitchen pipes clear, read our guide on how to effectively unclog a kitchen sink.
4. Tree Roots:
External factors like tree roots can also cause deep clogs. In their search for water, tree roots can infiltrate underground pipes through small cracks or even pierce the pipe walls. Once inside, they expand and create a net that traps debris, resulting in severe blockages.
Conclusion
Understanding the common causes of deep pipe clogs is crucial for maintaining your plumbing system’s health and preventing costly repairs. By avoiding the disposal of fats, oils, grease, and non-disintegrating paper products down your drains, and being mindful of what goes into your kitchen sink, you can significantly reduce the risk of clogs. Regular maintenance and prompt professional assistance for issues like tree root infiltration are essential to keep your pipes clear and your plumbing system functioning smoothly.
For expert plumbing services and preventative maintenance, contact PlumbSmart today. Our team of professionals is ready to help you with any plumbing issues and keep your home’s plumbing system in top condition.