Drains are one of the most important features of any plumbing system, and it is important to take care of them. Blocked drains can cause wastewater to back up through your pipes and end up back in your home, which can cause a great deal of damage – not to mention, it can make quite a mess. Because of this, monitoring your drains and keeping them clean is of the utmost importance.
Blocked drains are not always easy to spot until they are completely clogged and backing up. However, there are a few simple signs that can tip you off to the presence of a blockage before it makes a mess or causes any significant damage. Because you will have the most familiarity with your drainage system, you will be the first to notice when something is not working properly.
Warning signs you may need a plumber in Toronto to take a look at your drains:
Drain blockages can be caused by a wide variety of things, which makes it important to check your drains on a regular basis. Here are some of the most common causes of residential drain blockages:
The fats, oils, and debris that come from cooking your food can settle in the pipes and congeal, which catches other debris and promotes clogging.
Like food debris, oils, and fats, hair and hair products also contribute to blocked drains. Hair products contain a variety of oils and chemicals that can make blockages larger, while hair that goes down the drain sticks to these blockages until the drain is completely clogged.
Although many companies advertise that their wipes are flushable, they are often the cause of pipe blockages. When these flushable wipes do not break down in the plumbing system, they create a blockage that can clog your entire system.
Paper towels and other sanitary items can clog your toilet or your drains as well. Especially if a small blockage has already occurred, larger items that cannot break down get caught in these blockages and create larger plugs. In these cases, a plumber is almost always necessary, as the clogs are often too large for drain cleaners found at your local store.
Not every slow or blocked drain needs the same treatment. The right service depends on what is causing the problem, whether it keeps returning, and whether the pipe itself is damaged.
If water is draining slowly or a sink, tub, shower, or toilet is blocked, start with professional drain cleaning. Drain cleaning removes obstructions using equipment suited to the type and location of the clog.
Grease, sludge, soap residue, and other deposits can collect along the inside of a pipe. Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to clean the pipe more thoroughly and is often considered for recurring or severe buildup.
Repeated clogs, backups, leaks, or unexplained drainage problems may call for a drain camera inspection. Seeing inside the line helps identify buildup, deterioration, root intrusion, or structural damage before deciding on the next step.
A damaged pipe may require drain repair, relining, replacement, or root removal rather than cleaning alone. The condition and location of the damage determine which approach is appropriate.
Not sure which service fits your drain problem? Call Drain King Plumbers at 416-661-5464 or contact the team to arrange an assessment.