Understanding Slow or Blocked Drains with S.W.A.T. Plumbing LLC

Nothing is quite as frustrating in household inconveniences as dealing with a slow or blocked drain in your home. Whether it impedes your daily activities like cooking or cleaning or disrupts your bathing routine, it’s an issue that needs addressing. We often get asked at S.W.A.T. Plumbing LLC: “Why do I have a slow or blocked drain?”

First, it is essential to remember that drains are only designed to handle some types of waste, so improper use can lead to clogs. Common causes of blockages may include grease build-up, food scraps, hair, or sometimes, small objects accidentally dropped down the drain. Over time, these substances solidify and prevent water from flowing smoothly through your pipes.

The Culprit: Grease and Fat Build-up

Grease and fat are the prime suspects in the case of persistently blocked drains, especially in kitchen sinks. Typically, we wash away the excess fats and grease from our pans and plates down the sink, not realizing that these substances solidify in low temperatures. Over time, they accumulate along the pipe walls, narrowing the passage for water. This often results in slower draining and can lead to a complete blockage over time.

On a related note, food scraps not disposed of properly can contribute to the same scenario. Leftover food bits may get stuck in the grease build-up or independently block the pipes, escalating the blockage issue.

The Bathroom Scenario: Hair and Soap Residue

The usual culprits for a slow or blocked drain are hair and soap residue in bathrooms. Hair, due to its structure, can get easily tangled and trapped in drain pipes. Over time, this accumulation slowly starves your drain of its efficient flow. Additionally, soap residue, consisting of fat and minerals, can stick to the pipes. The combination of hair, hardened soap scum, and other minute particles like dead skin cells or toothpaste often creates a stubborn blockage that refuses to budge, thereby slowing down your drain.

Unseen Causes: Damaged Pipes and Tree Roots Invasion

While the factors above are visible contributors to slow or blocked drains, other unseen factors could impact your drainage system. Aging infrastructure and physical damage to pipes, such as breakages or cracks, can result in poorer water flow. Intruding tree roots are another unsung villain. Trees, particularly those planted near sewer lines, tend to invade the pipes in search of water, wreaking havoc in your drain system.

Professional Solutions with S.W.A.T. Plumbing LLC

Improper waste disposal and natural occurrences often chalk up the primary causes of a slow or blocked drain. Yet, while various home remedies are available, such as plunging or DIY drain cleaning solutions, some blockages are persistent or recurrent. This could indicate a more significant underlying issue.

At S.W.A.T. Plumbing LLC, we possess the expertise and arsenal to deal with various drain issues – from grease and food blockages to intrusive tree roots. Our professional plumbers can diagnose and resolve your slow or blocked drains using advanced technology like hydrojetting and drain cameras, ensuring your home’s plumbing functions smoothly again.

I want you to know that understanding the root cause of your drain issues is the first step toward efficient resolution. With our help, a free-flowing, efficient drain can be more than just a pipe dream. Contact us today for your drain issues today.