A clogged drain is more than just an inconvenience—it’s your plumbing system’s way of sending out an SOS. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, standing water in the tub, or a persistent gurgling sound, these issues indicate underlying problems that could worsen if ignored.
At Go 2 Plumbing and Heating, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing drain issues before they turn into costly disasters. Unlike a typical 9-5 Edmonton plumber, we offer 24-hour emergency plumbing service to keep your home’s plumbing in top shape. Whether you need a simple faucet installation, a tankless water heater, or a complete sewer line replacement, our experienced team is ready to assist.
If you’re dealing with persistent drain clogs, don’t ignore the warning signs. Here’s what your pipes are trying to tell you and how you can address the issue before it becomes a full-blown plumbing emergency.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains
Understanding what’s causing your drains to back up is the first step toward fixing the problem. Some of the most common culprits include:
1. Grease and Fat Build-Up
Cooking grease, fats, and oils may seem harmless when poured down the drain, but over time, they solidify and create stubborn blockages. This is especially common in kitchen sinks, where greasy residue accumulates along the pipe walls, restricting water flow.
2. Hair and Soap Scum
In bathroom sinks and showers, hair and soap residue combine to form a thick, sticky clog. These blockages slow drainage and, if left unchecked, can completely block the pipe.
3. Foreign Objects and Debris
Children’s toys, sanitary products, paper towels, and even excessive amounts of toilet paper can get flushed down toilets, leading to severe blockages. These materials do not break down easily, making them a major concern.
4. Tree Root Intrusion
Over time, tree roots can grow into underground pipes, causing cracks and blockages. This is a common issue for older sewer lines and can lead to costly repairs if not addressed quickly.
5. Mineral Deposits from Hard Water
If your home has hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate inside pipes, narrowing the passage for water to flow freely. A water softener can help reduce this issue and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.
Warning Signs Your Drains Are in Trouble
A clogged drain rarely happens overnight. Your plumbing system will give you early warning signs before a complete blockage occurs. Recognizing these signals can save you from expensive repairs down the road.
1. Slow Drainage
If water takes longer than usual to drain from your sink, shower, or bathtub, it’s a clear sign of a developing clog. The blockage may be caused by grease, soap scum, or a foreign object lodged in the pipe.
2. Gurgling Sounds
Do you hear strange gurgling noises when water drains? This happens when air gets trapped in the pipes due to a blockage, causing it to escape in bubbles as water flows through.
3. Unpleasant Odors
Foul smells coming from your drains indicate a buildup of food waste, grease, or sewage. This is especially common in kitchen sinks, where organic matter decomposes inside the pipes.
4. Frequent Toilet Backups
A toilet that frequently backs up or overflows may be suffering from a blockage deep in the sewer line. This issue requires immediate attention to prevent sewage from backing up into your home.
5. Water Pooling Around Drains
If water collects around your drain before slowly seeping away, the pipe may be partially blocked. Ignoring this sign can lead to a complete obstruction, causing water damage to surrounding areas.
How to Prevent Clogged Drains
Taking preventive measures can save you time, money, and frustration. Here are some simple ways to keep your drains clear:
- Dispose of Grease Properly: Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.
- Use Drain Screens: Install mesh screens over sinks and shower drains to catch hair and debris.
- Flush Drains with Hot Water: Regularly pouring hot water down the drain helps break down grease and soap buildup.
- Avoid Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items: Only flush toilet paper and human waste—everything else belongs in the trash.
- Schedule Routine Drain Cleaning: Professional drain cleaning services remove buildup before it becomes a major problem.
DIY Solutions vs. Professional Drain Cleaning
Many homeowners attempt DIY drain cleaning using chemical drain cleaners, plungers, or drain snakes. While these methods can provide temporary relief, they don’t always address the root cause of the problem.
When to Try DIY Methods:
- Minor clogs can often be cleared with a plunger or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
- A drain snake can help remove small hair clogs from bathroom sinks and showers.
- Boiling water can break down grease and soap buildup in kitchen drains.
When to Call a Professional:
- Recurring clogs that keep coming back indicate a deeper issue that requires professional tools.
- Sewage backups are serious plumbing emergencies that should be handled immediately.
- Tree root intrusion in underground pipes requires specialized equipment to remove and repair the damage.
Professional Drain Cleaning: What to Expect
At Go 2 Plumbing and Heating, we use advanced techniques to diagnose and clear even the toughest clogs. Our professional drain cleaning services include:
- Camera Inspections: We use high-definition cameras to pinpoint the exact location and cause of the blockage.
- Hydro Jetting: A powerful water jet removes grease, scale, and debris from pipes without causing damage.
- Auger and Snake Tools: We use specialized tools to break apart stubborn clogs deep within your plumbing system.
Don’t Ignore Drain Issues – Call Go 2 Plumbing and Heating Today!
Clogged drains are more than just a nuisance—they can lead to significant plumbing problems if not addressed promptly. Whether you’re dealing with slow drains, foul odors, or complete blockages, Go 2 Plumbing and Heating is here to help.
With our 24-hour emergency plumbing service, you never have to wait for assistance. Our team is equipped to handle everything from minor drain cleaning to full sewer line replacements, ensuring your plumbing system stays in top condition.
Get Your Free Quote Today!
📍 Address: 9544 143 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5E 2H3
📞 Call Us: 780-850-8817
🌐 Visit Us Online: https://www.go2plumbers.ca/contact-us/
Don’t let clogged drains disrupt your home—contact us today for fast, reliable service!
