_JPG.jpg)
Licensed & Insured: CSLB #1057926
Trusted Plumbing Experts Across the Bay Area
Why Do Drains Clog? Top Causes & How to Prevent Future Blockages
Top Causes of Clogged Drains and How to Prevent Them
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues in homes and businesses. While some are caused by everyday habits, others may signal more serious issues deeper in your plumbing system. Below are the top causes of clogged drains—plus actionable tips to prevent them.
1. Hair Buildup in Bathroom Drains
Hair easily combines with soap scum and shampoo residue to form dense clogs in sinks, tubs, and shower drains.
Prevention Tip: Install a drain hair catcher and clean it weekly to keep pipes clear.
2. Grease and Oil in Kitchen Drains
Cooking grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to the inside of your pipes and catching food particles that lead to blockages.
Prevention Tip: Never pour grease or oil down the drain. Instead, pour it into a sealed container and dispose of it in the trash.
3. Food Waste and Coffee Grounds
Even with a garbage disposal, food items like eggshells, coffee grounds, pasta, and potato peels can clog your sink.
Prevention Tip: Scrape plates into the trash and avoid rinsing starchy, stringy, or fibrous foods into the disposal.
4. Soap Scum and Hard Water Scale
Soap residue and mineral deposits from hard water gradually build up inside pipes, restricting water flow and trapping debris.
Prevention Tip: Use liquid soap instead of bar soap and install a water softener to minimize mineral buildup.
5. Non-Flushable Items in Toilets
Flushing wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, or paper towels can block your toilet or even your main sewer line.
Prevention Tip: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Place a covered trash bin nearby for other items.
6. Tree Roots in Sewer Lines
Tree roots naturally grow toward moisture and can invade cracks in underground sewer lines, causing major clogs or full pipe collapses.
Prevention Tip: Schedule an annual sewer line inspection, especially if you have large trees on your property.
Preventative Tips to Keep Drains Flowing
• Use drain strainers in kitchen and bathroom sinks to catch debris.
• Flush drains monthly with hot water and a mix of vinegar and baking soda.
• Be mindful of what you put down sinks and toilets.
• Schedule annual professional drain cleaning to remove buildup and catch early warning signs.
Need Immediate Drain Help?
Whether you’re dealing with a slow-draining sink or a full sewer backup, Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter provides fast, expert service across Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties.
Call +1(408) 295-4309 for reliable drain clearing, inspections, and long-term solutions.
Emergency Clogged Drain? Here’s What to Do Before Calling a Plumber
How to Handle a Clogged Drain – Step-by-Step Guide
A clogged drain can quickly go from a minor inconvenience to a major plumbing emergency. If you’re dealing with standing water, slow drainage, or overflow, follow these simple steps before calling a professional.
Step 1: Stop the Water Flow
If water is backing up or threatening to overflow:
• Toilets: Open the tank lid and press the flapper valve down to stop more water from entering the bowl.
• Sinks and Bathtubs: Turn off the faucet to prevent further drainage into the fixture.
Step 2: Use a Plunger
• Sinks or Tubs: Remove the stopper, fill with a few inches of water to cover the plunger base, and plunge firmly for 20–30 seconds.
• Toilets: Use a flange plunger to ensure a tight seal and plunge with steady, controlled movements.
Tip: If the clog doesn’t budge after a few attempts, stop plunging—continuing can push the clog deeper into the pipe.
Step 3: Try Hot Water and Dish Soap
Ideal for breaking up grease-related clogs in kitchen drains:
1. Heat water until it’s hot (not boiling).
2. Mix in several tablespoons of dish soap.
3. Slowly pour the mixture into the drain.
4. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then flush with more hot water.
Note: Avoid boiling water if you have PVC pipes—it can damage them.
Step 4: Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
A natural and pipe-safe alternative to harsh chemical cleaners:
1. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the drain.
2. Add 1 cup of vinegar.
3. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Flush with hot water.
If the drain remains clogged, the blockage might be deeper than the trap.
Step 5: Use a Drain Snake
• Insert a drain snake or auger into the drain and rotate the handle to break up or retrieve the clog.
• For hair blockages, a plastic drain tool may be enough to pull out the obstruction.
Don’t have the right tools—or want to avoid damaging your pipes? Call Repipe Champions for immediate, professional assistance.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Contact a licensed plumber immediately if:
• The clog keeps returning.
• Multiple drains are clogged at once.
• Flushing a toilet causes water to back up in other fixtures.
• You detect foul odors coming from drains.
• There is standing water or any level of flooding.
Why Choose Repipe Champions for Emergency Drain Cleaning?
• 24/7 Availability – Fast response when you need it most.
• Licensed and Insured – Trusted professionals serving your community.
• Advanced Tools – Hydro jetting, power augers, and video inspections for deep clogs.
• Transparent Pricing – No surprises—just clear, upfront quotes.
• Long-Term Results – Our work doesn’t just fix the problem; it helps prevent future issues.
Get Help Now – Reliable Drain Cleaning Starts Here
Don’t let a clogged drain cause water damage or costly repairs. Call Repipe Champions Plumbing and Rooter at +1 (408) 295-4309 for fast, affordable, and professional emergency service.
Service Areas for Emergency Drain Cleaning and Clog Removal
Campbell
Cupertino
Gilroy
Los Altos
Los Altos Hills
Los Gatos
Menlo Park
Milpitas
Monte Sereno
Morgan Hill
Mountain View
Palo Alto
Portola Valley
san Jose
Santa Clara
Saratoga
Sunnyvale
Woodside
If you are not listed above, please reach out and we'll do our best to assist you.