Drains
Why Does My Drain Keep Clogging?
Updated · Written by the SteadWell team
Short answerA drain that keeps clogging usually has buildup that was only partly cleared, or a defect in the pipe — roots, a sag, or a rough joint — that catches debris. If more than one fixture is affected, the problem is in the main line.
One drain or several?
If only the bathroom sink is slow, the clog is in that fixture's drain — usually hair and soap. If the tub gurgles when the toilet flushes, or the lowest drain backs up when the washer drains, it's the main line.
Common causes of repeat clogs
- Kitchen grease that coats the pipe and narrows it a little more each time
- Tree roots entering clay or cast iron joints
- A belly (sagging section) where water and solids sit
- "Flushable" wipes, which don't break down like paper
- A cable that punched a hole but left most of the clog
When to get a camera inspection
If a main line has needed clearing twice in a year, a camera inspection shows if the cause is buildup (fixable with jetting) or a pipe defect (needs repair). Without it, you're paying to clear the same clog again.
This guide is general information, not a substitute for an on-site assessment. Read our editorial standards.