Drain Blockage Causes and How to Prevent Them

By John Padilla Plumbing – Your Reliable & Trusted Plumber in San Diego, CA
Call Us Today: 858-221-8264

Plumbing Services You Can Trust

At John Padilla Plumbing, we set the standard for quality service. Our mission is simple -  provide genuine care, excellent workmanship, and lasting results. Whether it’s a stubborn kitchen clog or a major mainline blockage, you can rely on us to get your plumbing system back in perfect working order.

From drain blockages to sewer fly larvae issues, we handle it all  efficiently, safely, and professionally.

Understanding Drain Blockages

Drains get blocked over time due to normal use, buildup, debris, foreign objects, and neglect. While it’s impossible to avoid every plumbing hiccup, understanding the causes helps homeowners prevent serious problems and unnecessary repair costs.

Kitchen Drain Blockage Causes

Kitchen drains work hard every day, handling grease, oil, food scraps, and soap. Over time, these materials build up and restrict water flow, causing slow drains or full blockages.

Common Culprits:

• Grease & Oil Buildup: Even small amounts from cookware can harden inside pipes, especially in older cast iron systems.

• Food Waste: Food particles and disposal residue often cause clogs and foul odors.

• Aging Pipes: Old plumbing can develop scale, rust, or narrowed openings.

Prevention Tips:

• Wipe pans before washing to keep oil out of drains.

• Avoid disposing of coffee grounds, eggshells, and starchy foods.

• Schedule routine drain cleaning with a licensed professional.

When the sink starts backing up, a professional snaking or hydro jetting service from John Padilla Plumbing can restore full flow and prevent recurring clogs.

Bathroom & Lavatory Sink Blockage Causes

Bathroom sinks may seem harmless, but hair, toothpaste, soap scum, and small items can create tough clogs in the trap and pipes.

Typical Causes:

• Hair accumulation over time

• Toothpaste caps, bobby pins, or jewelry falling into the drain

• Product residue building up inside pipes

Simple fix: Install a drain strainer and clean it regularly.
Best fix: If water is draining slowly or not at all, call John Padilla Plumbing for fast and safe removal without damaging your pipes.

Toilet Blockages

Toilets can clog from flushing non-flushable materials or due to hard water mineral buildup.

Common Causes:

• Wipes, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels (never flush these!)

• Excessive toilet paper

• Calcium deposits from hard water narrowing the passage

If plunging doesn’t fix the issue after a few careful tries, avoid forcing it, this could damage the wax seal or the drain connection. Our team can quickly diagnose and clear the blockage with professional tools.

Main Sewer Drain Blockage Causes

Your main sewer line is the backbone of your plumbing system. When it clogs, you’ll notice multiple drains backing up at once, a sure sign it’s time to call a trusted plumber.

Typical Reasons:

• Tree Root Intrusion: Roots seek water and can crack or invade pipes.

• Aging or Collapsed Lines: Older pipes deteriorate and restrict flow.

• Improper Waste Disposal: Wipes, grease, and paper products block flow.

• Sewer Fly Larvae: Standing water in blocked lines can attract sewer flies and larvae, signaling a deeper drainage problem.

Warning Signs of a Mainline Blockage:

• Water backing up in multiple drains

• Gurgling or bubbling sounds in toilets

• Laundry water rising in tubs or shower drains

If you notice these signs, don’t wait. A blocked mainline can lead to sewage backups and serious property damage.

Our expert plumbers use advanced drain inspection cameras, high-powered hydro jetting, and non-invasive repair techniques to restore full flow and prevent future issues.

Preventing Future Drainage Blocks

• Schedule annual plumbing inspections

• Have your main sewer line camera-inspected every few years

• Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper

• Keep hair, grease, and foreign objects out of drains

• Address drainage block or slow flow early before it becomes an emergency

Why Choose John Padilla Plumbing

At John Padilla Plumbing, we don’t just fix problems, we build lasting trust. Our customers choose us because we:

• Deliver fast, reliable service

• Offer honest pricing and expert advice

• Use cutting-edge tools to get the job done right

• Stand by our work, always

When it comes to drain blockages, sewer fly larvae, or any drainage block issue, we’re the plumber you can rely on in San Diego, CA, and surrounding areas.

Need Help with a Drain or Sewer Issue?

Don’t wait for the problem to get worse,  let our experts restore your plumbing the right way.

Call John Padilla Plumbing Today at 858-221-8264
Or book your service online and experience the difference of a team that truly cares.

John Padilla Plumbing - Holding the Standard for Quality Service.