Why Does My Drain Keep Getting Clogged—Even After I Unclog It?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the common causes of clogged drains and why you should schedule regular drain cleaning services. Here at High Speed Plumbing, we’re committed to helping homeowners keep their drains in good working condition. Call us when you need a skilled plumber to help you clean your drains.

• Build-Up Deep in the Pipes

The most common reason your drain keeps clogging is that the blockage isn’t fully removed the first time. Over-the-counter drain cleaners and plungers only clear out a portion of the clog, typically the soft debris near the top of the pipe. However, deeper buildup made of grease, soap scum, hair, or mineral deposits remains stuck to the pipe walls. Over time, these residues trap more debris, and before you know it, you’re dealing with another clog. Professional drain cleaning services use advanced tools like hydro jetting or drain snakes to remove these blockages completely, preventing the problem from returning. Whenever you’re dealing with a stubborn drain clog, call a nearby plumbing service for help.

• Foreign Objects or Improper Use

Drains aren’t designed to handle everything that ends up in them. Kitchen sinks, for example, often get overloaded with food particles, grease, coffee grounds, soap scum, and even bits of paper towels that don’t break down easily. Bathroom drains, on the other hand, tend to collect hair, soap residue, and hygiene products. Even small items like dental floss or cotton swabs can snag inside pipes and create stubborn clogs. The best long-term solution is prevention—avoid rinsing non-degradable materials down the drain and consider installing strainers or mesh covers to catch debris before it causes trouble.

• Tree Root Infiltration

If your home has older plumbing or a large yard with mature trees, you might be dealing with a problem that no amount of plunging can fix. We’re talking about tree roots in your sewer line. Tiny cracks or loose joints in underground pipes allow roots to sneak in, where they grow and block wastewater flow. This issue often leads to slow drains throughout the house rather than just one clogged fixture. In such cases, professional plumbers in Claremont use specialized cameras to inspect the line and determine whether repairs or replacements are needed to restore full flow.

• Damaged or Misaligned Pipes

Sometimes, the cause of recurring drain clogs isn’t debris; it’s the pipes themselves. Over time, pipes can sag, shift, or corrode, creating uneven sections where water and waste settle instead of flowing freely. This standing water encourages buildup, which quickly turns into a clog. A professional inspection by a local plumbing repair service can help identify these structural issues before they cause major backups or leaks.