December 21, 2024

Vanquishing the dragon—the many-headed drain clogs and their sources

-A clogged sink or backed-up toilet might just be symptoms of an overloaded garbage disposal, or the family toddler gleefully watching a toy spin down the toilet drain. Or, clogs might be a signal there is something else lurking somewhere deep in the plumbing. How do we know what’s down there and how do we get rid of it? Hydro jetting by San Luis Obispo County’s Quality 1st Plumbing and Drains is the answer for getting rid of threats anywhere in the plumbing system.

Even the most easily solved clogs can be a sign of deeper issues, especially if they persist, or are accompanied by other signs. Kitchen and bathroom sinks, shower, and bathtub drains might clog occasionally. In the kitchen grease and food particles build up and eventually slow or stop the flow. Bathing products and hair are the usual culprits for bathroom drain clogs.

What are the signs a dragon is lurking in the pipes?

Unlike the dragons of fantasy lore, clogs are real. When they are neglected, or not handled properly, they get worse and can lead to damage and major plumbing problems. Noticing drain problems early and taking appropriate action is key to preventing serious plumbing problems.

  • Slow drainage is the most common sign of a clog and is usually the easiest to correct without calling the plumber. Something we don’t think about, though, is that every time we plunge a drain, we might be forcing the problem deeper into the pipes. A persistently slow drain is a sign something is lurking somewhere in the plumbing.
  • Standing water means the clog has built up over time and is preventing drainage. A broken pipe might also cause standing water.
  • Gurgling noises coming from the drains are signs that air is trapped in the pipes due to a blockage.
  • Multiple clogged drains suggest a clog deeper in the main line. Up-to-date plumbing technology like hydro jetting that is applied by the San Luis Obispo County plumbing company, can quickly remove clogs anywhere in the plumbing system.
  • Foul odors emanating from drains are signs of organic matter decomposing within the clog.
  • Visible debris like hair, soap scum, food scraps, or other debris around the drain opening can indicate a developing clog.
  • Slow toilet refilling after flushing could be due to a clog in the drain line.
  • Toilet bubbles appearing in the bowl indicate a clog that’s causing air to back up into the toilet.
  • Water rising in unexpected places suggests a clog or a break in the main drain line.
  • Uneven draining with sinks or tubs in some areas draining slower than others could be a sign of a partial clog.
  • DIY methods like plunging or drain cleaners aren’t working.
  • Rodents can build nests in drains, causing blockages.
  • Reduced water pressure can indicate a problem in the plumbing. We tend to associate clogs with outflowing pipes, but those supplying water can also have issues that need attention.
  • Sewage backup is the most serious plumbing failure. Immediate professional help is necessary if raw sewage is backing up into drains, or puddling above ground.

Getting rid of the dragon in the pipes

Getting that clogging dragon out of the pipes is a two-step process:

  • First, find it.
  • Second, hydrojet it away.

Up-to-date plumbing technology includes using sewer or drain cameras to locate problems. From clogs to damaged pipes, camera inspections are the most efficient way to locate problems so they can be repaired and get the family back to normal life as quickly as possible.

When the problem is from clogged pipes hydrojetting, the process of sending water at around 3000 psi through the pipes, quickly blasts away any blockages, including invading tree roots.

It’s also important to take measures to prevent plumbing clogs. Removing them is one thing. Preventing them is the secret to trouble-free plumbing. Taking steps such as using drain screens to catch food debris or hair before it goes down the drain or being careful about what is flushed down the toilet can go a long way toward protecting the plumbing system.

Quality 1st Plumbing & Drains brings plumbing solutions, including camera inspections and hydrojetting to San Luis Obispo County communities. The team arrives fully equipped and supplied to do the job and leave your home clean and tidy when the job is done. Along with camera inspections and hydrojetting, Quality 1st provides:

  • Upfront pricing before the work starts.
  • Modern and efficient leak detection techniques.
  • Consultations.
  • Plumbing repairs and new plumbing installation.
  • Bathroom and kitchen plumbing.
  • Tankless water heaters or traditional water heaters.
  • Reverse osmosis water systems and water softeners.
  • Sump pumps.
  • Drain cleaning.
  • Repiping.
  • Sewer installation/replacement.
  • and more!

Quality 1st Plumbing & Drains
Paso Robles, CA 93446
(805) 835-7460