Common Causes of Clogged Drains and How Professionals Tackle Them

If you’ve ever dealt with a clogged drain, you know the frustration and inconvenience it can cause. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a completely blocked shower, clogged drains are a common household problem that can disrupt your daily routine. Hiring experienced plumbers in Livermore, CA, to fix clogged drains is important.

The team at Dollar Plumbing has the experience and the tools to unclog your drains. Our goal is to work fast to help you minimize the frustration of a clogged drain.

Read on to learn about the common causes of clogged drains and what our plumbers will do to fix them.

Hair Buildup

Hair buildup is one of the most common causes of clogged bathroom drains. Loose strands can slip down the drain when you wash your hair in the shower or sink. Over time, this hair accumulates and mixes with soap residue, creating tough clogs that block water flow.

Professional plumbers use tools like drain snakes or specialized hair removal devices to remove these hair clogs. A drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake, is a flexible, auger-like tool that can reach deep into the drain.

The plumber inserts the snake into the drain and twists it to catch and pull out the hair clump. Specialized hair removal devices are designed to snag and remove hair quickly and efficiently. These tools ensure that the drain is cleared without causing damage to your pipes.

Soap Scum

Minerals in soap combine with water to create a residue known as soap scum. This residue clings to the insides of your pipes and collects over time. As more soap scum builds up, it can cause a blockage that prevents water from flowing smoothly down your drain. This noows down the drainage and can lead to unpleasant odors and back-ups.

To tackle soap scum clogs, professional plumbers in Livermore, CA, use chemical drain cleaners that are specifically designed for this purpose. These cleaners dissolve the soap scum without causing damage to your pipes. The plumber pours the cleaner into the drain, where it works to break down the buildup. This leaves your pipes clear and helps maintain the overall efficiency of your plumbing system.

Food Waste

Improper disposal of food particles is a significant cause of clogged kitchen drains. When starchy or fibrous materials like potato peels, rice, or vegetable scraps are washed down the drain, they can accumulate and create blockages. Unlike liquids or softer items, these materials do not break down easily and can combine with grease and other debris in the pipes, leading to persistent clogs.

Professional plumbers in Livermore, CA, use various techniques to address this drain clog. They often recommend using a garbage disposal to break down food waste properly before it reaches the pipes. If the clog is severe, plumbers might use manual removal methods. This involves accessing and removing the food particles directly from the drain or pipe.

Plumbers can ensure that your kitchen sink drains properly and remains clog-free by taking these steps.

Contact an Experienced Plumber in Livermore, CA!

Clogged drains can be a nuisance, but with the help of professional plumbers in Livermore, CA, they don’t have to be. The team at Dollar Plumbing has the expertise and resources to address any type of clog efficiently and effectively. Contact us now!