Dealing With Clogged Drains in Your Home

Common Causes of Clogged Drains

Understanding what causes clogs can help prevent them in the future. Here are some of the most common reasons drains get blocked:

• Hair and Soap Scum – In bathroom sinks and showers, hair and soap combine to form sticky blockages.
• Grease and Food Particles – Kitchen drains often get clogged from grease, oils, and leftover food washing down the sink.
• Foreign Objects—Wipes, cotton swabs, paper towels, and small toys can create serious blockages.
• Mineral Build-Up – Hard water can leave behind minerals that slowly narrow your pipes, making clogs more likely.
• Tree Roots – Outdoor pipes can get blocked when tree roots grow into them, searching for water.

By being mindful of what goes down your drains, you can reduce the chances of needing frequent drain cleaning.

Easy DIY Fixes for Minor Clogs

Not all clogs require a professional. Here are a few simple methods you can try before calling for a plumbing service:

Boiling Water

For grease and soap scum clogs, boiling water can help break up the blockage. Pour a pot of hot water down the drain and see if it clears the issue.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

This natural cleaning solution creates a fizzy reaction that can break down small clogs. Pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.

Plunger

A good plunger can work wonders on sink and bathtub drains. Create a tight seal and use firm, consistent pressure to dislodge the clog.

Drain Snake or Wire Hanger

If you suspect hair or debris is blocking your drain, a drain snake or a straightened wire hanger can help pull out the obstruction.

If these methods don’t work, the clog may be deeper in the pipes, and a trained plumber from Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air might be needed.

When to Call a Professional

Some clogs are too stubborn for DIY solutions. Here are signs that you should call a plumbing service:

• Multiple Drains Are Clogged—If more than one drain is slow or blocked, it could indicate a bigger problem in the main sewer line.
• Bad Odors—A foul smell from your drains might indicate trapped food, grease, or sewer line issues.
• Water Backups – If water backs up into your sink, tub, or toilet, it’s a strong sign of a serious blockage.
• Gurgling Sounds – Strange noises from your drains might mean a clog causes trapped air.
• Slow Drainage Even After DIY Fixes—Professional drain cleaning in Gardena, CA may be necessary if you’ve tried plunging, baking soda, and hot water but haven't had any luck.

For these problems, calling Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air ensures that experienced professionals handle your pipes safely and effectively.

How Professionals Handle Stubborn Clogs

Professional drain cleaning goes beyond what most homeowners can do on their own. Here’s how experts tackle tough blockages:

Hydro Jetting

This high-pressure water technique blasts away buildup and debris, restoring pipes to like-new condition.

Drain Snaking

Plumbers use advanced drain snakes to break up and remove stubborn clogs.

Video Camera Inspection

Professionals can see exactly what’s causing the blockage using a small camera and determine the best solution.

Pipe Repairs and Replacement

If tree roots or broken pipes are the problem, plumbers can repair or replace damaged sections to restore proper drainage.

Hiring a professional plumber ensures your pipes are cleared without causing further damage.

Preventing Future Clogs

The best way to deal with clogged drains is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips:

• Use Drain Covers – These catch hair and debris before they drain.
• Dispose of Grease Properly - Instead of pouring it down the sink, let the grease cool and throw it in the trash.
• Flush Only Toilet Paper – Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, and other non-biodegradable items.
• Run Hot Water After Each Use – This helps flush out oils and small debris before they build up.
• Schedule Regular Maintenance – A professional plumbing service can help keep your drains in shape by routinely cleaning them.

Call the Experts at Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air

If you’ve tried everything and still have a stubborn clog, don’t wait for it to worsen. Call Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air for trusted drain cleaning and expert plumbing solutions. Whether it’s a minor blockage or a major pipe issue, their experienced team can quickly diagnose and fix the problem, keeping your home’s plumbing in top condition. Don’t let clogged drains slow you down—contact the experts today!