Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face—and they don’t discriminate. From kitchens to bathrooms and main lines to vanity sinks, every part of your plumbing system is vulnerable. If you’re dealing with slow drainage, strange gurgling sounds, or—worst of all—sewer backups, it’s time to take action.

Here are answers to the most common questions we get about clogged drains from our customers.

1. Do all types of drains clog?

Yes, all drains can clog—including kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, showers, tubs, toilets, vanity sinks, and especially main sewer lines. Different types of buildup cause clogs in different places, but no drain is immune.

2. What are the warning signs of a clogged drain?

Listen and look for:

• Gurgling noises from drains
• Slow drainage
• Water not draining at all
• Sewer water backing up into tubs, showers, or toilets

These symptoms can indicate anything from a simple blockage to a more serious problem in your main line.

3. Are chemical drain cleaners safe?

We do not recommend using any chemical drain cleaning products. They can corrode your pipes, damage plumbing fixtures, and often don’t fully resolve the issue—especially if the clog is deep or caused by something like tree roots.

4. What should never go down the drain?

In the bathroom: Only toilet paper should be flushed—nothing else. That means no wipes (even “flushable” ones), feminine products, or paper towels.

In the kitchen: Avoid pouring or rinsing down grease, fats, oils, coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, rice, fibrous vegetables (like celery or asparagus), and paper towels.

5. Can tree roots cause clogged drains?

Absolutely. Tree roots are a common cause of sewer blockages. They often find their way into your line through cracks or breaks and trap debris, worsening the clog. But root intrusion usually indicates a larger issue —a broken or compromised sewer line that needs to be addressed.

6. Should I have my drains cleaned regularly?

Generally, you shouldn’t need recurring drain cleaning services. If you do, that’s a red flag. Recurring clogs typically point to an underlying issue that needs to be investigated and permanently resolved—not just cleaned again and again.

7. What’s the difference between a sink clog and a main line clog?

A sink clog only affects one fixture—like a single sink not draining—while the rest of the house works fine.

A main line clog affects multiple drains at once, and can cause sewage to back up into showers, tubs, or toilets. If several drains are acting up, you’re likely dealing with a main sewer line problem.

8. Can a slow drain mean something more serious?

Yes, slow drains often signal a bigger problem. It could be buildup forming in your pipes or a sign that your sewer line is partially blocked. Don’t ignore it—early attention can prevent expensive damage.

9. When should I call a professional plumber?

Call a pro if:

• You can’t clear a clog yourself
• You experience sewer backups
• You’re having recurring stoppages or slow drains

Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger headaches (and repair bills) down the road.