Stubborn drain clogs are more than just an annoyance; they can also make your kitchen and bathrooms unusable. To restore functionality to the most used spaces in your home, homeowners may need the help of a plumbing professional to find a lasting solution to recurring clogs.
In this article, the expert plumbers at GEM discuss why your drains may continue to clog, along with the top-tier sewer and drain services we offer to homeowners to restore the functionality of their plumbing system and protect them against the hazards of wastewater issues.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains in Massachusetts Homes
Unfortunately, clogged drains aren’t uncommon. Some small, localized clogs can be handled by homeowners with a drain snake or other DIY methods. However, others require professional attention. Causes of these clogs are often:
- Hair buildup: Hair is the leading cause of clogs in bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers, as it binds with soap and grease to create dense blockages.
- Fats and oils: Kitchen sinks can become clogged if homeowners pour cooking oils or grease down the drain. As these liquids cool, they solidify in pipes to narrow the drain opening.
- Soap scum: Soap, shampoo, and other hygiene products leave behind residue that sticks to pipe walls and traps additional debris.
- Food waste: There are many items that shouldn’t go down your sink drain, like coffee grounds, rice, pasta, eggshells, and fibrous foods.
- Foreign objects: Paper towels, feminine products, and even “flushable” wipes cause clogs in toilets and drain lines often.
- Tree root intrusion: The roots of mature trees in New England neighborhoods can seek moisture and infiltrate sewer lines.
- Freeze-related pipe damage: The winter cold can lead to freeze-thaw stress on pipes that can cause cracks where debris can enter and create a blockage.
Signs You Need A Plumber
Wondering when to call a plumber for clogs? Homeowners may need a professional plumber or even emergency plumbing services in these scenarios:
- Slow drains throughout the house: One slow drain can be addressed by homeowners, but multiple slow drains point to a main line clog that requires professional attention.
- Recurring drain clogs: If clogs return as soon as they’re cleared, it may mean the blockage wasn’t fully removed or that there is an underlying problem with your sewer line or drains.
- Water backing up: Water coming through drains, showers, or tubs means a serious blockage and requires emergency services.
- Gurgling noises: Bubbling noises from drains occur when air is trapped by a blockage, and water has to push through in an attempt to drain.
- Foul odors: Persistent sewer odors suggest waste buildup or blockages that need to be cleaned out by a professional.
- Overflowing toilets: If your toilet often overflows, you likely have a sewer line or drain problem that is more complex than a simple toilet clog.
- Signs of pipe damage: Issues like leaks, water stains, or damp areas, in addition to recurring clogs, could indicate cracked or deteriorating pipes that have trapped debris, causing blockages.
Clogged Drain Solutions From GEM
When you need an expert, trust GEM for professional drain cleaning and hydro jetting. Our thorough services eliminate clogs efficiently and effectively. Schedule drain cleaning with our team to proactively keep your pipes flowing freely, or if you’re struggling with clogs, ask us about hydro jetting. This powerful yet gentle pipe cleaning method uses pressurized water to blast away blockages and clear the walls of your pipes to provide lasting results for recurring clogs and reduce your risk of future blockages.
Schedule With Our Team Today
At GEM, we’re the area’s top choice for comprehensive plumbing services. Founded in 1949, our mission is to deliver quality care from licensed and certified technicians who truly care. We offer 24-hour and same-day services to address pressing issues quickly. Plus, our upfront pricing helps ensure that your service fits your budget. Contact our team today to learn about our military, veteran, and senior discounts.
Get rid of stubborn recurring clogs by scheduling drain-clearing services with GEM in Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts.