If you’ve ever dealt with a slow-draining sink, a shower that pools water around your feet, or a toilet that seems to clog way too often, you know how frustrating drain problems can be. Many homeowners across Barnegat and Ocean County face the same issue: their drains keep clogging, even after they’ve tried store-bought cleaners or a quick DIY fix. That’s where calling a professional sewer plumber makes all the difference. With expert drain repair and cleaning, you can get to the root of the problem and prevent clogs from coming back.
So, what’s really going on? Let’s break down the most common reasons drains clog and what you can do to stop the cycle.
1. Grease and Cooking Oil
One of the biggest culprits in kitchen sinks is grease. Even if you don’t dump oil directly down the drain, grease from pans and dishes sticks to your pipes over time. Once it cools, it hardens and builds up, trapping food particles and causing stubborn clogs.
Quick Tip: Always wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing them. Dispose of cooking oil in a container instead of your sink.
2. Hair Build-Up
Showers and bathroom sinks often clog because of hair. When hair combines with soap scum, it creates a sticky mess that can block water flow. Over time, the buildup can get so dense that no amount of plunging will fix it.
Quick Tip: Install a drain screen in your shower or tub. It’s a cheap and effective way to catch hair before it becomes a problem.
3. Soap Scum and Mineral Deposit
Soap may seem harmless, but traditional bar soaps contain fats that leave behind residue. In areas with hard water (common in parts of Ocean County), mineral deposits can also build up inside your pipes, narrowing them and leading to frequent clogs.
Quick Tip: Switch to liquid soap and consider a water softener to reduce buildup.
4. Flushing the Wrong Things
Toilets are only meant to handle human waste and toilet paper. Items like wipes (even the “flushable” kind), cotton balls, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels don’t break down easily. They can get stuck in your pipes and lead to recurring clogs.
Quick Tip: Remember this rule: If it’s not toilet paper, don’t flush it.
5. Tree Root Intrusion
If your clogs keep happening in multiple drains across your home, the issue may be deeper—literally. Tree roots naturally seek water, and they can grow into small cracks in your sewer line. Once inside, they spread and block water flow. This is a serious issue that requires professional inspection.
Quick Tip: If you notice frequent backups in multiple drains, call a plumber right away. A camera inspection can confirm if roots are the problem.
6. Old or Damaged Pipes
Sometimes, the problem isn’t what’s going down the drain—it’s the pipes themselves. Older homes in Ocean County may have pipes that are corroded, cracked, or collapsed. These issues restrict water flow and cause debris to get stuck more easily.
Quick Tip: If your home is older and clogs are a constant battle, you may need pipe repair or replacement.
How to Stop Recurring Drain Clogs
While DIY methods like plunging or using a drain snake can provide short-term relief, they don’t always solve the root cause. Store-bought chemical cleaners can even damage your pipes over time.
For long-lasting results, professional drain cleaning is the way to go. Services like hydro jetting can clear out years of buildup and restore your pipes to like-new condition.
Call Crest Plumbing for Drain Cleaning in Barnegat & Ocean County
If your drains keep clogging no matter what you do, it’s time to bring in the experts. At Crest Plumbing, we specialize in drain cleaning, sewer line inspections, and pipe repairs. Our team uses professional tools and techniques to get your drains flowing smoothly again—without the guesswork.
👉 Don’t wait until a small clog turns into a big plumbing emergency. Call Crest Plumbing today for fast, reliable drain cleaning across Barnegat and Ocean County!
