The signs of a clogged drain are often highly visible and easy to notice. However, the cause of a clogged drain may not be visible because problems are often deep in the system. Below, we look at five common signs of a clogged drain pipe and what you should do if you notice water backing up in your system.

1. Slow Drainage

Slow drainage occurs when water takes longer than normal to drain out sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. A blockage can cause this in the drainpipe, which can restrict the flow of water and cause it to drain slowly.  Factors that contribute to slow drainage include
  • Accumulation of debris, such as hair, soap scum, and food particles, in the drainpipe.
  • A build-up of grease or oil in the pipe
  • A problem with the vent system is that it allows air to flow into the drain pipe, which can help to move water and waste through the pipe.
Slow drainage can occur close to the drain as the p-trap or as deep into the system as the septic tank or sewer line.

2. Gurgling Noises

A variety of factors can cause gurgling noises in the drain, but they are often an indication of a blockage in the drain pipe or vent system. One common cause of gurgling drains is a blockage in the drainpipe itself. An accumulation of debris in the pipe, such as hair, soap scum, and food particles, can cause this. Water flowing through the pipe can push against the blockage and create a gurgling noise. Another potential cause of gurgling drains is a problem with the vent system. A drain’s vent system allows air to flow into the drainpipe, which helps to maintain the proper flow of water and waste through the pipe. If the vent is blocked, it can create a vacuum in the drainpipe and cause water to be pulled back up the pipe, resulting in gurgling noises.

3. Visible Blockage

Visible blockage in a drain refers to any debris or obstruction that can be seen in the drain or trap of a sink, bathtub, shower, or toilet. A variety of factors, such as hair, soap scum, food particles, grease, and other debris, can cause these blockages. Some examples of visible blockages include:
  • Hair: Hair is one of the most common causes of visible blockages in bathroom sinks, showers, and bathtubs. Hair can accumulate in the drain and form a clump that can block the flow of water.
  • Soap scum: Soap scum is a buildup of soap and minerals that can accumulate in the drain and trap, forming a hard blockage.
  • Food particles: Food particles can accumulate in kitchen sinks and garbage disposals, forming a blockage that can restrict the flow of water.
  • Grease: Grease can accumulate in the drain and harden, forming a blockage that can restrict the flow of water.
  • Debris: Leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in outdoor drains and cause a visible blockage.

 4. Foul Odors

Foul odors in a drain can be caused by a variety of factors, but they are often an indication of a blockage or buildup of organic matter, such as food scraps, grease, and hair, in the drainpipe. When these materials collect in the drain, they can begin to rot and decay, producing a foul smell. Another potential cause of foul odors in a drain is a problem with the vent system. A drain’s vent system allows air to flow into the drainpipe, which helps to maintain the proper flow of water and waste through the pipe. If the vent is blocked, it can trap the odors inside the pipe and cause them to back up and fill the room. A third potential cause of foul odors in a drain is dry p-trap. A P-trap is a curved section of pipe that is designed to retain a small amount of water in the bend. Water creates a seal that stops sewer gasses from coming back into your home. If there is no water in the p-trap, the gasses will escape to the room, causing a bad odor.

5. Water Backups

Water backup in a drain can be caused by a variety of factors, but it is often an indication of a clogged drain pipe or a problem with the sewer system. One common cause of water backup is a blockage in the drainpipe itself. This can be caused by an accumulation of debris, such as hair, soap scum, and food particles, in the pipe. When there is a problem with the drain clogged, it can restrict the flow of water, causing it to back up and overflow out of the sink, bathtub, or toilet. Another potential cause of water backup is a problem with the sewer system. If the main sewer line is blocked, it can cause water to back up into the drain pipes in your home. This can be caused by tree roots growing into the pipe, the collapse of the sewer line, or a buildup of grease and other materials, making it hard to clear a clogged drain.

Schedule Plumbing Services in Northern Virginia

If you need plumbing installation or repairs, call the professionals at Cardinal Plumbing, Heating & Air. We offer comprehensive plumbing services in Northern Virginia. We can take care of all your sewer and drain cleaning issues. To schedule plumbing services in Virginia, fill out our contact form or call us.