Clogged drains are one of the most common—and frustrating—issues homeowners face. Slow drainage, foul odors, and recurring blockages can disrupt daily routines and lead to bigger plumbing problems if not addressed properly. Understanding why these clogs keep happening is the first step toward keeping your plumbing system running smoothly. Here are the most frequent causes and what you can do to keep your drains clear for good.
Hair, Soap Scum & Bathroom Build-Up
Bathroom drains are especially prone to clogs due to the combination of hair, soap residue, and beauty products. Over time, hair binds with soap scum and forms dense clumps that block drains. Even smaller buildups can slow water flow and eventually turn into full clogs.
How to prevent it:
Use drain screens, clean stoppers regularly, and avoid washing excess oils or product buildup down the sink or shower drain.
Grease, Fat & Food Waste in Kitchen Drains
Grease may go down the drain as a liquid, but it cools and solidifies inside pipes. Combined with food particles and soap residue, it creates thick, stubborn clogs that get worse over time. Garbage disposals sometimes make matters worse by grinding food into pieces that can accumulate in the line.
How to prevent it:
Never pour grease down the sink. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash. Scrape food scraps into the bin—especially fibrous or starchy foods—and run hot water regularly to help keep kitchen lines clear.
Foreign Objects & Everyday Debris
Cotton swabs, “flushable” wipes, dental floss, paper towels, and small objects create major blockages—even when packaging claims they’re drain-safe. These items don’t break down like toilet paper and can lodge deep in the plumbing system.
How to prevent it:
Only flush waste and toilet paper. Place a small wastebasket nearby to discourage flushing anything else.
Tree Roots Intruding Into Sewer Lines
Tree roots seek moisture, and your underground sewer line is an ideal target. Even tiny cracks in the pipe can allow roots to break through, eventually blocking or damaging the entire line. This issue often shows up as gurgling drains, backups, or slow drainage throughout the home.
How to prevent it:
Have your sewer line inspected regularly, especially if your home is older or surrounded by mature landscaping.
Aging or Damaged Pipes
Old pipes are more prone to corrosion, collapse, scale buildup, and misalignment—all of which can lead to recurring drain issues. Even the best DIY methods won’t fix a structural plumbing problem.
How to prevent it:
Routine maintenance and professional inspections help identify issues early before they escalate into costly repairs.
When to Call a Professional
While small clogs can sometimes be handled with simple DIY techniques like hot water flushes or drain screens, persistent or recurring clogs usually point to a deeper issue. Professional tools and diagnostic equipment can clear the blockage safely and identify what's causing it.
If your drains continue slowing down or backing up, it’s time to bring in experts who can provide real solutions—not temporary fixes.
Call the Experts at Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
Keeping your drains free-flowing doesn’t have to be a constant battle. If you’re dealing with frequent clogs or want to prevent future issues, Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help. Contact us today at (951) 574-2226 for reliable, professional drain solutions that restore peace of mind and smooth plumbing throughout your home.