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Common Causes of Clogged Water Pipes and How to Avoid Them

Water is the essential lifeblood of your home. It flows through a complex network of pipes to ensure your daily routines run smoothly.

But when blockages occur, these arteries of your plumbing system can become narrowed. This can cause slow drains or even complete stoppages.

To maintain a healthy plumbing system, it is important to understand the common causes of blockages. One of the most common causes is simply excess hair and debris buildup. Over time, these substances can accumulate and you can end up with clogged water pipes.

Here are some tips to prevent that:

Grease Build-up

Beyond its reputation as a kitchen villain, grease is also a formidable opponent of free-flowing water. Whenever you wash greasy dishes or pour fats down the drain, they can solidify. They can create stubborn clogs that are hard to get rid of.

To prevent this, never pour grease or oil down the sink. Instead, allow it to cool and dispose of it in the trash. Consider using a strainer to catch food particles, which can accumulate and combine with grease over time.

Hair Accumulation

The bathroom is a prime location for hair to stage a clogging coup. Whether it’s from showering or grooming, hair finds its way into the drain and can intertwine over time. This creates a mass that slows down water flow.

Installing a floor drain cover or trap in your shower or tub can prevent the majority of hair from entering the pipes. Regularly cleaning these traps is essential to ensure they don’t become part of the clog problem.

Mineral Deposits

In areas with hard water, mineral deposits are akin to cholesterol build-up in the body’s vessels. As minerals like calcium and magnesium solidify in your pipes, they form a crust. This reduces water flow and, over time, can lead to complete blockages.

Annual flushing of your water heater and installing a water softening system can lower the risk of mineral deposits. Regularly using a safe cleaning solution down your drains can also help dissolve the early stages of these mineral clogs.

If necessary, you can also look into hiring expert plumbers who offer hydro jetting services. Their high-pressure method of cleaning can effectively remove mineral deposits from your pipes.

Foreign Objects

Sometimes, the most effective way to handle clogs is through prevention. Foreign objects can inadvertently find their way into the plumbing and lead to blockages. These can include anything from sanitary products and toys to small articles of clothing.

Educating household members on proper disposal can go a long way. You can also use baskets in kitchen sinks and other strainers in tubs and showers.

Flushable Wipes

The term “flushable” can be misleading when it comes to certain hygiene products like wet wipes. Despite the labeling, many of these products do not disintegrate the way traditional toilet paper does. Instead, they accumulate inside the plumbing system. This leads to sizeable blockages that are not easily dissolved by water.

The safest approach is to dispose of wipes and other similar products in the trash rather than flushing them. Additionally, spreading awareness about what should not be flushed can help prevent these types of blockages in both home and public sewer systems.

Soap Scum and Residue

One of the more insidious culprits in clogged drains is soap scum. This is a residue that forms from the chemical reaction between soap and minerals in hard water. The scummy layer sticks to the sides of pipes, trapping hair and other debris. Over time, it can narrow the pipes significantly.

To combat soap scum buildup, use liquid soaps or shower gels that are labeled “scum-free”. Alternatively, install a water softener to reduce the mineral content in your water. Regular cleaning with vinegar and baking soda can also break down existing scum.

Old Pipes

Aging pipes consist of materials that, over time, are prone to corrosion, sediment buildup, and even collapse. While modern plumbing typically uses PVC or copper, older homes might have pipes made from cast iron, steel, or, in some cases, lead. These materials react with the water and can degrade, which often leads to leaks, bursts, and yes, blockages.

It’s not just about the material though. Old pipes can also be subject to root intrusion from plants and trees seeking water sources. Small fractures in the piping allow roots to enter and grow within, exacerbating the blockage problem and potentially causing significant damage.

To ensure the longevity and functionality of your plumbing, it’s prudent to conduct regular inspections, particularly if you live in an older home. Pipe relining or replacement might be advisable to prevent frequent blockages and the myriad of issues that come along with an antiquated plumbing system.

If replacement isn’t immediately possible, frequent monitoring and home maintenance become crucial. This can help manage the health of your home’s plumbing system.

Plant Roots and Earth Movement

Often overlooked, plant roots can pose serious threats to your plumbing network. Large trees and shrubs, looking for moisture, can send roots directly toward your pipes. These roots can eventually cause blockages or even break through the pipe walls.

To avoid such damage, plan your landscaping carefully and consider the location of underground pipes when planting new trees or shrubs. In addition, removing old, deeply rooted plants that are located near your plumbing can reduce the risk of root intrusion.

Another natural but disruptive factor to consider is earth movement. Seasonal changes, heavy construction nearby, or even seismic activity can shift the soil around your pipes, misaligning them. This can lead to accumulation points for debris, eventually causing blockages.

Regular inspection of your property for signs of root growth or soil displacement can help catch these issues early on. If a problem is detected, hire expert plumbers. They have specialized techniques like video pipe inspection or rooter services to address them before significant damage occurs.

Clogged Water Pipes Are Not Fun

Dealing with clogged water pipes can be a frustrating and time-consuming task. With these tips, you can help prevent blockages from occurring in your plumbing system. Regular maintenance and proper disposal methods can go a long way in ensuring smooth and efficient water flow throughout your home.

Remember, a little prevention now can save you a lot of headaches later. So take care of your plumbing system and it will take care of you. Keep the water flowing!

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