Top 5 Causes of Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are a problem most households face at some point. If they aren’t addressed quickly or properly, they can lead to more serious issues like pipe corrosion, leaks, or even burst pipes. Ever wondered what causes your drains to clog and how you can stop it?

Grease & Fat Build Up

A leading cause of blocked drains is the buildup of grease and fat. Pouring oil down the sink—whether hot or cold—is a bad idea. As it cools, it hardens and sticks to the inside of your pipes. Over time, this buildup traps food scraps and other debris, eventually causing a blockage.

To avoid this, never pour oil or grease down the drain. If your kitchen sink is already slow or blocked, try pouring a mixture of equal parts hot water and vinegar down the drain. This simple, non-toxic solution can help break down grease and clear minor blockages.

Hair Accumulation

Hair is a common culprit behind bathroom drain blockages. It easily collects in pipes, especially when combined with soap residue.

To prevent this, try to limit the amount of hair going down the drain and dispose of it in the bin instead. If your shower or bath is draining slowly, remove the grate and clear out any visible hair and buildup. If the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional plumber to avoid further damage or flooding.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots can cause serious drain issues by entering pipes through small cracks or leaks. Once inside, they grow and restrict water flow, potentially leading to major blockages and even flooding.

Unfortunately, this isn’t something you can fix on your own. If you suspect tree roots are the problem, it’s important to contact a professional plumber as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Baby Wipes and Hygiene Products

Items like baby wipes and other hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet. Unlike toilet paper, they don’t break down easily and can quickly cause clogs.

If your toilet becomes blocked, you can try using a plunger, drain cleaner, or toilet auger to clear it. If the issue continues—especially if the toilet fills up without draining—it’s best to call a plumber for assistance.

Foreign Objects and Food Scraps

Another common cause of blocked drains is the disposal of inappropriate items down sinks or toilets. Food scraps like coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous vegetables, as well as small foreign objects, can build up over time and restrict water flow.

To prevent this, avoid putting food waste down the sink unless you have a suitable disposal system, and always use a drain strainer to catch debris. Being mindful of what goes down your drains can significantly reduce the risk of blockages.

How MDG can help

Our team at MDG Plumbing delivers dependable, high-quality plumbing services to ensure your drains stay clear and functioning properly. From simple blockages to more complex drainage issues, we have the skills and equipment to get the job done right. If you’re experiencing a blocked drain, get in touch with MDG Plumbing today to arrange a service or speak with one of our professionals.