Clogged drains are aggravating and disruptive.
They can lead to a great deal of damage, expense, stress and clean-up requirements.
It’s always best to solve the problem before it escalates into a major catastrophe. The key to properly operating drains is maintenance and vigilance. If the sink fills with whatever when you brush teeth or wash your hands, that’s a sign of a clog. Soap bubbles that gather around the drain and leave behind a soapy film are signs of a blockage. Having concerns with one sink typically indicates that the clog is close to the surface. It should be quite easy to fix. When multiple sinks and/or the tub start draining slower than normal, the issue is probably located in the sewer line. Even worse than slow-moving drains is the back-up of dirty water into the tub, toilet or sink. The cause is often a serious plumbing problem that can lead to toxic sewage entering the home. The smell of sewage is a warning sign. If the odor originates from a sink that rarely gets used, it could be a dried-out P-trap. The problem might be solved by running a little water. If the stench remains, there might be a disconnected pipe. If the odor is more musty, there could be mold growth. The combination of stagnant water and hair, grease, soap scum or other organic materials provides the perfect breeding ground. Professional drain cleaning is necessary to remove the clog as well as harmful bacteria. While standing water around the base of the dishwasher or washing machine can be a malfunction of the appliance, it can also be due to a clog. Any water pooling at the base of a toilet, in the basement floor drain, in the sink or shower is worrisome.