What’s Really Causing Your Clogged Drains? Top 5 Culprits Revealed

Clogged drains are one of the most common — and annoying — plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a completely blocked shower, clogs disrupt your daily routine and can quickly escalate into bigger problems if not handled properly.

At John’s Plumbing & Drain Services, we’ve cleared thousands of drains across Los Angeles. Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes of clogged drains, how to avoid them, and when to call in a professional.

1. Hair Buildup

Hair is a major culprit, especially in bathroom sinks and showers. Over time, it binds with soap scum and other debris, forming stubborn clogs that restrict water flow.

Prevention Tip: Install hair catchers in drains and clean them regularly.

2. Grease and Oil

In the kitchen, grease and oil might seem harmless when poured down the sink — but once they cool, they solidify and stick to your pipes. Add in food scraps, and you’ve got a recipe for major blockages.

Prevention Tip: Pour grease into a disposable container and toss it in the trash instead.

3. Soap Scum

Bar soaps often leave behind a film that builds up in pipes over time. This can combine with other materials like hair or dirt, narrowing your drain lines and causing clogs.

Prevention Tip: Switch to liquid soap and flush your drains with hot water weekly.

4. Foreign Objects

From children’s toys to hygiene products and excessive toilet paper, foreign objects can quickly block drains — especially in toilets and bathroom sinks.

Prevention Tip: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Keep small objects away from sink and tub drains.

5. Tree Roots

In outdoor or older plumbing systems, tree roots can grow into underground pipes, causing serious blockages and even pipe collapse.

Prevention Tip: Schedule routine sewer line inspections — especially if you have large trees near your home.

DIY Fixes vs. Professional Help

While a plunger or store-bought drain cleaner might help with minor clogs, these methods don’t address deeper issues. In fact, chemical cleaners can damage your pipes over time.

Our team uses advanced tools like drain snakes, hydro jetting, and video camera inspections to safely and thoroughly eliminate clogs and keep your pipes flowing freely.

Why Choose John’s Plumbing for Clogged Drain Services?

• Over a decade of experience unclogging drains in LA homes
  
• Non-invasive diagnostic tools and advanced cleaning methods
  
• 24/7 availability for emergencies
  
• Upfront, honest pricing
  
• Satisfaction guaranteed on all services

No matter how stubborn the clog, we have the tools and expertise to clear it fast.

Final Thoughts

A clogged drain isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a warning sign that something may be wrong deeper in your plumbing system. If your sink, tub, or toilet keeps backing up, don’t wait.

Contact John’s Plumbing & Drain Services today for fast, effective drain clearing solutions you can count on.