So, you pour a cleaner down a drain. Then you think: “Okay, I did that, and now it’s clear.’’Afterward, days or weeks later, the same problem recurs. It is a frustrating pattern.
There can be several reasons for a recurring blockage. Most likely, the initial blockage cleared only partially.That is why the problem recurred.
Below, we will discuss other reasons. By the end of it, you will be in a better position to address the problem.
The obstruction could still be there
A plunger or house drain cleaner can make room for the water to flow. But it might not remove all that is blocking it. Some of the accumulation may be stuck to the pipe walls.
As water continues flowing through the drain, other debris can collect around the remaining material. The opening is slowly closed once again, hence the repetitiveness of the same blockage.
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Something may be building up gradually
Not all of the blockages that recur are caused by a single large blockage. The particles build up over time. For example:
- Food wasteand oil can build up in kitchen drains.
- Haircan accumulate in bathroom drains.
The individual contribution might be small. Combined, they can create a layer within the pipe that makes it harder for water to move through the pipe.
The previous clearing method may not have been enough
Maybe you poured a chemical cleaner down the drain and thought ‘’problem solved!’’Just because water can flow again doesn’t mean the pipe is clean. Some techniques only temporarily break down the blockage.
If the issue is persistent, you should consider professional drain cleaning in Calgary. The experts use sophisticated techniques to clean pipes. It is a practical solution when DIY measures fail.
The issues may be further downstream
The blockage could still be further in the plumbing system. This is especially true if several fixtures are affected.
Perhaps the kitchen sink, the bathtub, and another fixture around the house are having the same issues. The issue could be in a section of the drainage system, not just one drain.
There could be a problem with the pipe itself
Sometimes, the cause is not that obvious. The problem could be within the pipes. Maybe they are:
- Damaged
- Collapsed
- Poorly aligned pipe.
As a result, theyallow debris to collect more easily. Older plumbing can also develop internal roughness.
Does the same drain keep clogging even after it has been cleaned well? It might be better to examine inside the pipes.
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The takeaway
Some drains clog only after some unusual usage. Others clogevery few weeks. The latter indicates a more serious problem. If the clog is persistent, it’s likely that there’s something further up the drainage system that requires professional attention.