Reasons Drains Continually Clog
Even after loosening the clog and restoring the flow, there could still be leftover bits of the block sticking to the drainpipe farther down.
When dealing with a blocked or slow drain, using a plunger or drain cleaner is often enough to restore proper water flow. However, if the need to unblock a drain arises frequently, there might be a more serious issue that requires the expertise of a licensed plumber.
Something is still stuck after the initial unclogging attempt
Even after loosening the clog and restoring the flow, there could still be leftover bits of the block sticking to the drainpipe farther down. For instance, if there was a clump of hair in the drain, it might have loosened most of the grime attached to the hair enough for water to flow again. However, some hair might still be there, causing the block to build up and eventually clog the sink again gradually.
An effective solution to this issue involves using a drain snake—a long metal tool equipped with a corkscrew. Insert the snake down the drainpipe and rotate it to the right, ensuring it latches onto any obstruction in the sink. The issue should be resolved if a clump of debris or an object is caught on the snake's end.
Blocked sewage vents
A home's drain system includes vents, sometimes several, positioned on the roof. If these vents become blocked, air struggles to escape the sewage system, leading to slow drainage. It's like emptying a can with just one hole; a second hole is needed for the liquid to flow freely!
Using a plunger will temporarily fix the issue by lessening the air buildup in the drainpipes. However, the clog will likely return after using the drain a few times. If foul odors are detected from the drains and all the drains in the home are slowing down, blocked sewer lines are probably causing the problem.
To check for blocks in the sewer vent, hire a professional to climb onto the roof and inspect for snow or leaves in the vents. If any are present, clear them away, and the drain should flow freely. Contact a plumber if a block cannot be spotted from the outside. They can reach into the vents and remove anything causing the problem.
Evenflow Home Services has earned a strong reputation for providing comprehensive residential and commercial plumbing services. Emergency services available. Call today at (210) 941-3503.
