5 Common Causes of Drain Clogs in Minnesota

Whether it’s a slow-moving sink or a stubborn blockage in the toilet, clogs can disrupt your daily routine and lead to more significant plumbing issues if left untreated. Understanding the common causes of drain clogs can help you prevent them and keep your plumbing system in good working condition.

In this blog post, the plumbing professionals at 4Front Energy Solutions cover the top five most common culprits behind drain clogs in Minnesota and how you can avoid them.

Tree Root Infiltration

Minneapolis is home to many large, old trees, boasting nearly 30% tree coverage in the city. While they add beauty to our neighborhoods, their roots can cause significant issues for your plumbing systems. As they mature, their roots spread out in search of nutrients, sometimes infiltrating underground pipes. This can lead to severe blockages and pipe damage.

If you notice slow drainage, gurgling sounds from your pipes, or frequent clogs, tree roots could be the issue. A professional inspection can confirm this. Regular maintenance and root barriers can help deter tree roots from invading your pipes.

If you’re planning to plant new trees, consider their proximity to your home’s plumbing system to mitigate your risk.

Hair & Bath Products

Hair is one of the most common causes of bathroom drain clogs, but thick lotions, oils, and bath salts can also worsen the problem by sticking to the walls of your pipes and narrowing their openings.

A slow-draining shower or sink is a telltale sign of a hair or bath product clog. If the problem continues, it may be time to clean the drain trap or call a professional. To prevent this issue, use a drain cover to catch hair before it goes down the drain and be mindful of the types and amounts of products you’re using.

Kitchen Grease

Even when carefully avoiding pouring large amounts of grease down the kitchen sink, small amounts of grease and oil can still build up and solidify in your pipes over time, leading to problematic clogs. If your kitchen sink is draining slowly or emits a foul odor, grease buildup could be the culprit.

To prevent this issue, avoid pouring grease down the drain, letting it cool and solidify before disposing of it in the trash instead. Wipe down greasy pots and pans with a paper towel before washing them.  

Foreign Objects

From “flushable” wipes to kids’ toys, foreign objects are a leading cause of clogs, particularly in toilets. Many products labeled as flushable don’t break down like toilet paper and can accumulate in your pipes, causing blockages.

If your toilet is frequently clogged or overflowing, it could be due to foreign objects in the pipes. To prevent this, only flush toilet paper and human waste. Keep a close eye on what goes down the toilet, and educate children about what’s flushable and what isn’t.

Shifting or Broken Pipes

Over time, the ground beneath your home can shift, leading to cracks or misalignments in your pipes. These imperfections allow dirt, debris, and other materials to enter your plumbing system, causing clogs that are often hidden deep within the pipes.

Unexplained clogs, particularly in older homes, could indicate shifting or broken pipes. A video pipe inspection can reveal the precise cause. Regular plumbing inspections can catch these issues early. If your home is older, consider having the pipes inspected to assess their condition.

Schedule a Drain Inspection in Minneapolis

Dealing with clogged drains can be a hassle, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re battling a stubborn clog, or you want to prevent future issues, 4Front is here to help. Our licensed and insured plumbers have advanced tools and technology to find issues hidden deep within your plumbing and fix them in no time.

Contact us today to request professional drain cleaning services in Minneapolis or St. Paul.