There are few things more universally relatable than the frustration of a clogged drain in your home sink or bathtub. Everyone has been there, and it’s a messy pain to fix. Instead of going straight for the chemical clearer or plunger every time a clog occurs, the plumbing professionals from Fast Rooter Plumbing on Oahu, HI, share five ways you can avoid this annoying problem in the first place.

5 Common Causes of Clogged Drains

1. Paper Products

Even though toilet paper is made to break up quickly in water, too much of it can cause severe clogs that require a professional plumber to fix. Paper absorbs water and expands, easily gumming up your home’s plumbing. Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper, and be judicious with the amount.

2. Food

Food is another common clog causer, especially for those without garbage disposals. It’s a good practice to clear plates into a compost or garbage bin, even if your home has a disposal, to prevent any unwanted clogs and unpleasant odors.

3. Grease

After cooking something greasy, like bacon, many people pour the excess oil and fat down the drain. This is guaranteed to clog up the pipes over time. Instead, pour the grease into a heat-proof container, and let it sit on the counter. After a few hours, it will harden and can be scooped into the trash.

4. Hair

Everyone knows how easily and quickly hair can build up in a shower drain. The simple fix is to simply get a drain plug to catch hair and quickly clean it out after your shower. It’s a $3 investment that can save hundreds in eventual repairs.

5. Bath Products

While it would make sense for all bath products to easily dissolve in water, some items, like bath salts, are not water soluble and can actually cause or worsen clogs. To prevent this, only buy bath products that are totally water soluble to avoid potential blockages.

If you have a pesky clogged drain or are in need of professional plumbing on Oahu, call the team at Fast Rooter Plumbing. Their attention to detail and years of quality work guarantee your home will be taken care of with a job done right. Call them at (808) 734-4938 or visit their website to learn more about their variety of services.