Introduction
Drains seem to get blocked at the worst times — before guests arrive, during dinner prep, or on the weekend. But many common clog causes are avoidable. In this post, we’ll identify the top five culprits behind drain blockages, give tips to prevent them, and show when professional help is needed. If you want expert help in Inglewood, see our Expert Drain Cleaning Services in Inglewood, CA page.
Culprit #1: Grease, Oils & Fats
- How it clogs drains: Liquids cool and solidify in pipes, trapping debris behind them
- Prevention tips:
- Pour cooled grease into containers and discard, not into the sink
- Use dish soap + hot water after cooking
- Install a grease trap or interceptor
Even commercial kitchens in Inglewood need to manage grease buildup to avoid costly blockages.
Culprit #2: Hair & Soap Scum
- Hair combines with soap residue over time and sticks to pipe walls
- Use hair-strainers or mesh guards in showers and tubs
- Rinse drains weekly with hot water to help flush minor buildup
Culprit #3: Food Waste & Coffee Grounds
- Even with a garbage disposal, starchy or fibrous food can cause blockages
- Coffee grounds expand and clump
- Avoid pushing eggshells, potato peels, rice, or pasta down the drain
- Use a mesh strainer above your disposal
Culprit #4: Foreign Objects & Debris
- Kids, pets, or accidents introduce items like toys, wipes, or paper towels
- Flush only toilet paper
- Secure drains with covers and educate household members
If a foreign object is lodged deeply, professional camera inspection is often required.
Culprit #5: Tree Roots & Aging Pipes
- Roots exploit minor leaks, cracks, or joints
- Older pipes may sag, crack, or corrode
- Watch for recurring clogs, wet spots on your yard, or slow drainage across multiple fixtures
In such cases, services like hydro-jetting or trenchless repair might be necessary—techniques that are often included in comprehensive drain-cleaning services. For details on our methods, see Expert Drain Cleaning Services in Inglewood, CA.
Preventive Habits That Save You Trouble
- Run hot water after each use
- Use strainers in every sink, tub, and shower
- Flush drains monthly with baking soda + vinegar + hot water
- Avoid chemical drain cleaners (they can corrode pipes)
- Schedule professional inspection once per year at minimum
Regular service helps catch problems early, saving you time and cost.
When to Call the Experts
Even with precautions, clogs may still happen. Call a professional if you see:
- Multiple fixtures clogged simultaneously
- Backups into toilets or outside drains
- Water pooling or flooding
- Abnormal noises or odors
- Previous repair history or looming plumbing age
For expert service in Inglewood, contact us or see Expert Drain Cleaning Services in Inglewood, CA.
Conclusion & Link to Next Post
Understanding what typically causes drain blockages empowers you to avoid many problems before they start. But when issues persist, knowing what professional methods can resolve those tougher blockages is key. In the next post, we’ll dive into modern drain cleaning technologies you should know about — from hydro-jetting to video inspection. You can also explore our Expert Drain Cleaning Services in Inglewood, CA page anytime for more.
