Let’s face it—clogged drains are a pain. Whether it’s a shower that turns into a foot soak or a kitchen sink that’s more of a water park, blocked pipes can seriously mess up your day. At Keemer Plumbing, we’ve seen it all here in Taylorsville, UT, and we’re here to help you get to the root of these pesky problems. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a plunger), and let’s talk about what causes clogged drains and how to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.

Hair: A Major Culprit in Bathrooms

Hair is sneaky. It falls out while you’re brushing, washing, or even just standing in the bathroom. Over time, it tangles with soap scum to form a blockage that your pipes can’t handle. It’s the #1 reason your shower turns into a bathtub. Don’t let hair win—keep it out of your drains and call us if things get hairy.

Soap Scum: The Hidden Pipe Coater

Think soap is harmless? Think again. When soap mixes with hard water minerals, it creates a nasty buildup inside your pipes. This sticky residue loves to trap other debris, making your clogs worse over time. Soap scum might be invisible at first, but trust us, it’s working behind the scenes to slow things down.

Grease and Oil: Kitchen Drain Nightmares

Grease, fat, and oil may go down the drain easily, but they don’t stay liquid for long. Once they cool, they solidify, coating your pipes like glue. This creates blockages that can bring your kitchen sink to a standstill. No amount of hot water can fix this—but we can!

Food Waste: When Garbage Disposals Fail

Garbage disposals are great, but they’re not miracle workers. Items like coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, and fibrous veggies can clog even the toughest disposals. Instead of rinsing everything down, scrape those plates into the trash to avoid a kitchen disaster.

Tree Roots: Nature’s Underground Invaders

Tree roots are plumbing’s worst nightmare. They’re drawn to the tiny leaks in your sewer lines and can grow inside your pipes, causing major blockages. If you’re noticing slow drains or gurgling sounds, it might be time for a professional inspection.

Foreign Objects: The Unexpected Blockers

Kids, we love them… until they flush toys down the toilet. Foreign objects like jewelry, wipes, and even cotton swabs can wreak havoc on your plumbing. If something falls into the drain, don’t try to fish it out—let us handle it safely.

Mineral Buildup: The Silent Pipe Shrinker

Living in Taylorsville often means dealing with hard water. Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up in your pipes, reducing water flow and creating stubborn clogs. The good news? We’re pros at descaling and keeping your pipes clear.

Toilet Paper and Non-Flushable Items: Overloading Your System

Even something as simple as toilet paper can cause problems if you use too much at once. And let’s not even get started on “flushable” wipes—they’re a plumber’s nemesis. Stick to the basics when it comes to flushing, and call us if the toilet backs up.

Aging Pipes: When Time Takes Its Toll

Older homes often come with older pipes, which can sag, corrode, or crack over time. These issues create the perfect conditions for clogs to form. If you’ve got frequent backups, it might be time for an upgrade.

Prevention: Best Practices for Keeping Drains Clear

Here’s a quick list to keep your drains happy and healthy:

Use drain covers to catch hair and food particles.

Never pour grease, fat, or oil down the drain.

Avoid flushing non-flushable items (yes, this includes wipes labeled “flushable”!).

Schedule regular plumbing inspections to catch small problems early.

Call a professional plumber for stubborn clogs instead of relying on chemical cleaners.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a clog just won’t budge. That’s where we come in. At Keemer Plumbing, we’ve got the tools and expertise to handle everything from minor blockages to major repairs. Whether it’s hydro jetting, pipe inspections, or sewer line fixes, we’re ready to help.

Don’t Let Clogs Drain Your Patience

Clogged drains don’t have to disrupt your life. With a little prevention and the right professional support, you can keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or just want to ensure your pipes are in top shape, reach out to Keemer Plumbing today. We’re here to keep Taylorsville flowing, one drain at a time!