Few household frustrations happen as frequently as clogged drains. From slow-draining sinks to entirely blocked showers, clogs can disrupt your household routine and lead to more significant plumbing problems when left untreated. Fortunately, understanding the common drain clog causes and how to fix a clogged drain can get things moving again. However, it’s also crucial to know when to call Polestar Plumbing, the local plumbing experts in Kansas City.
Hair Buildup in Drains
Hair is a common culprit behind clogged showers and bathroom sinks. Strands collect inside drain pipes, forming stubborn tangles that trap dirt, soap scum, and other debris. Over time, the blockage grows until water can’t flow freely. A simple drain snake or even a bent wire hanger can sometimes pull out the clump. You can also purchase specialized tools made for hair removal. If a clog persists or is located deeper in your system, our licensed plumbers can clear it quickly using a motorized auger or hydro-jetting equipment. Regular drain maintenance helps keep hair issues from escalating.
Grease Buildup in Pipes
Pouring fats, oils, and grease down your kitchen sink may seem harmless when they’re hot liquids, but they solidify as they cool, coating your pipes with sticky residue. This buildup is a leading cause of blockages. Pouring boiling water or a vinegar-and-baking soda solution may help loosen minor grease clogs. For more severe cases, professional drain cleaning is the most effective solution. At Polestar Plumbing, our advanced hydro-jetting service can completely remove hardened grease and restore smooth water flow.
Soap Scum and Mineral Deposits
Soap residue and hard water minerals can combine to form thick layers inside your pipes, gradually narrowing their diameter. This leads to slow drains and frequent backups. A water softener can help reduce mineral buildup, while vinegar-based solutions may dissolve minor scum. For heavy buildup, our plumbers use high-pressure cleaning methods that restore your pipes to full capacity. Routine professional maintenance is the best way to prevent soap and mineral deposits from becoming a recurring issue.
Food Waste and Foreign Objects
Kitchen drains often clog due to coffee grounds, eggshells, food scraps, or even small utensils slipping into the drain. Garbage disposals are handy, but they can’t handle everything. A plunger or snake may help with minor blockages, but chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes and should be avoided. For tougher clogs, Polestar Plumbing has specialized tools to dislodge compacted food waste safely and effectively.
When to Call the Pros
DIY clogged drain solutions can help with small, occasional issues, but recurring or multiple drain clogs are a sign of something more serious. If you notice foul odors, water backing up into tubs and sinks, or multiple drains clogging at once, it’s time to schedule professional service. These issues can indicate severe buildup, broken pipes, or even tree root intrusion. Our expert team can provide an accurate diagnosis and lasting repairs to restore your plumbing system.
Preventing Future Drain Clogs
The best way to deal with clogs is to prevent them. Use drain covers to catch hair and debris, and throw grease and oil in the trash instead of the sink. Flush drains regularly with hot water to wash away buildup. For long-term peace of mind, schedule professional drain cleaning and preventative maintenance with our team. This keeps your system clear, protects your pipes, and helps you avoid costly plumbing emergencies.
Keep Your Drains Clear With Local Experts
A clogged drain doesn’t have to disrupt your home. Polestar Plumbing provides same-day drain and sewer services to customers in the Kansas City area. In addition to expert drain cleaning, we’re the local plumbing professionals residents trust for hydro jetting, sewer line replacement, and sewage ejector pump services. Don’t let a clog slow down your household — contact Polestar Plumbing today for all your drain cleaning needs.
