What Causes Clogged Garage Floor Drains?

Some home driveways have the luxury of being sloped so that excess water naturally runs towards the road rather than pooling in the garage. For other homeowners, including a floor drain when planning the construction of a garage or installing a new one after moving in is key for proper drainage. Just like most drains and plumbing systems, garage floor drains are susceptible to clogs. Let's explore some of the common causes of a clogged drain in the garage: 

Main sewer line blockage

If the main sewer line gets backed up, the home's lowest point often begins to overflow. In addition, homes without a basement may see a sewer line clog causing their garage floor drain to clog as well. If you noticed a foul smell in the garage or gurgling sounds coming from the drain or toilet, these are both signs of a sewer line backup. Sewer line blockages can usually be repaired but often require the attention of a licensed drain cleaning and plumbing professional.

Drainpipe crystallization 

Grease, oil, soap, and other liquids cause drainage crystallization. When the liquid dries or hardens, it coats the drain and causes blockages as the pipe tightens.  Not only will fluids no longer go through the line correctly, but crystallized pipes can cause other clogs throughout the home. Depending on the severity of the blockage, a drill or hydro-jet may be needed to clear the crystallized sediment to return function to the garage floor drain. 

Hair and other debris

In the garage and driveway, homeowners can expect dirt, dust, leaves, even hair to get rinsed down the drain on their garage floors. Like sinks and bathtubs throughout the home, this debris or sediment will become clogged, stopping water flow. 

Freezing  temperatures

Did the temperature recently dip below freezing? If so, that could be the cause of a clogged floor drain. In addition, frozen pipes or leftover ice from a frigid night may lead to a pipe burst or potentially expensive repairs. Since the garage is not usually hooked up to the home's heating system, the potential for frozen or burst pipes caused by outdoor or garage plumbing is more common than not. A solution for pipe-freeze is to add insulation to your home's plumbing or install anti-freeze piping options. 

Keep on top of your garage floor drain maintenance

Although the garage floor is rarely top of mind for homeowners, improper drainage can cause future issues at home. Keep an eye on foul smells, gurgling drains, or toilets. If you suspect the garage floor drain is clogged, get it fixed immediately. In addition, an issue with the main sewer line or a burst pipe can wreak havoc on your home. Always consult an experienced and professional plumbing service for assistance.

With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix, Arizona, and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company offering 24-hour emergency service. We provide lasting general plumbing, water leak detection and repair, toilet repair, pipe repair, and water heater repair or replacement solutions. Call 602-883-2787 today!