How Do the Drains in Your Home Work?
Every plumbing fixture in your home — bathroom and kitchen sinks, tubs, showers and basement floor drains — has its own drainage line. All these smaller drains tie into a larger sewer line that connects your home to the city’s sewer system.
But if you’ve noticed sinks with standing water, backed up toilets or slow drains anywhere in your house, you’ve got a clogged drain.
How Do Drains Get Clogged?
That clog can begin near the fixture itself, or run deeper into your home’s plumbing, even into the sewer line. The deeper the clog in the drainage system, the more fixtures that can be affected. There are several common culprits that cause clogged drains, and most homes have several happening at once…
- Fat, oil and grease used in cooking and food scraps can cling to the inside of pipes, gradually building up.
- Egg shells, vegetables, popcorn and other fibrous foods that don’t break down can become caught in pipes.
- And children’s toys commonly end up in drains, as any parent will tell you.
- Other items that clog our pipes include cleaning wipes, toilet paper and other hygiene products that can build up inside pipes. This may be a sign your home has low water pressure and is not flushing pipes clear.
- Soap residue often collects on smaller obstructions to build a clog.
- Hair is a big cause of clogged drains, often tangling with grease and soap to make a big mess.
- Finally, tree roots seeking water often grow into sewer lines and are a major cause of clogs, particularly in older homes with mature trees.
Problems with Clogged Drains
Poor drainage is more than inconvenient; it’s a problem that will likely only get worse over time. Partially clogged drains create a breeding ground for foul odors and bacteria.
Eventually they can cause backups, setting the stage for water damage and mold. And exposure to mold and bacteria may cause a number of unpleasant skin and respiratory symptoms.
What Do You Do If You Have a Clogged Drain?
Clogged drains shouldn’t just be opened, which may only leave them draining temporarily. Instead, drains should be truly cleared.
Eyman Plumbing, Heating and Air has modern, efficient equipment and techs experienced in clearing any drain, large or small, from industrial plants and restaurants, to your home.
Eyman offers same day service and free estimates on all major repairs and maintenance. Call (402) 731-2727 and the Big Red Truck will be on its way!