Shocking Causes of Clogged Drains & Life-Saving Prevention Tips for Simcoe County: Barrie, Alliston & Innisfil
Clogged or slow drains are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners in Barrie, Alliston, Innisfil, and across Simcoe County face. Ignoring a blocked drain can quickly escalate into a plumbing emergency, leading to water damage, sewage backup, and expensive repairs.
Understanding what causes clogged drains is the first step to preventing them. Here’s a look at the most common reasons drains get blocked and how you can keep your plumbing running smoothly.
1. Hair & Soap Scum Build-Up
Hair is a leading cause of clogged drains, especially in bathroom sinks and showers. When mixed with soap, hair forms a sticky mass that blocks water flow. Over time, soap scum can also create a hard deposit inside pipes, further restricting drainage.
Pro Tip: Install drain guards in your sinks and showers to catch hair and clean them regularly. Switching to liquid soap can help reduce soap scum buildup.
2. Grease, Oil & Food Waste
Kitchen drains often get clogged due to grease, oil, and food debris. When grease cools, it solidifies and sticks to pipe walls, creating blockages over time. Food particles like coffee grounds, eggshells, and pasta can also get trapped in drains. Pro Tip: Never pour grease or oil down the drain. Instead, wipe grease with a paper towel and dispose of it in the trash. Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps.
3. Tree Roots in Drain Pipes
Simcoe County has many older homes with underground sewer lines that can become infiltrated by tree roots. As roots seek moisture, they can crack pipes and cause major blockages. Pro Tip: If you suspect tree roots are invading your sewer line, schedule a professional camera inspection. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs.
4. Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste can lead to serious plumbing issues. Common culprits include baby wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and cotton swabs. Pro Tip: Always dispose of non-flushable items in the trash. Even “flushable” wipes can cause blockages and should be avoided.
5. Hard Water & Mineral Build-Up
Barrie, Alliston, and Innisfil are known for having hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals can accumulate inside pipes, restricting water flow and leading to clogs. Pro Tip: Installing a water softener can help reduce mineral build-up and prolong the life of your plumbing system.
6. Foreign Objects & Small Items
Small items like jewelry, hairpins, children’s toys, and toothbrushes can accidentally fall into drains, causing stubborn blockages. Pro Tip: Be mindful of what goes near your drains. Use drain covers and teach children not to drop objects in sinks or toilets.
What to Do If Your Drain is Clogged?
If you notice slow drainage, gurgling sounds, or water backing up, don’t ignore it! A minor clog can quickly escalate into a major plumbing issue.
At PHD PLUMBING, we specialize in drain cleaning and emergency plumbing services in Barrie, Alliston, Innisfil, and all of Simcoe County. We use the latest technology, including hydrojetting and camera inspections, to diagnose and clear even the toughest clogs efficiently.
Why Choose PHD PLUMBING?
✅ Fully licensed and insured plumbers
✅ 24/7 emergency plumbing services
✅ Advanced drain cleaning technology
✅ Honest pricing and professional service
Call PHDPLUMBING Today!
Don’t let a clogged drain turn into a disaster. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a full-blown sewer backup, PHDPLUMBING is here to help.
📞 Call us now at 705-627-5725 for fast and reliable service in Barrie, Alliston, Innisfil, and across Simcoe County!
