Clogged drains are one of the most common—and frustrating—plumbing issues for homeowners in University Place, a popular neighborhood in Tacoma, WA. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a backed-up shower, the inconvenience is real and often strikes at the worst possible moment.
But what’s behind most of these annoying blockages? The #1 cause of clogged drains in University Place is grease buildup. Let’s break down why it happens, how to prevent it, and what to do if your drains are already in trouble.
🧈 Why Grease Buildup Is the Top Culprit
When grease goes down your kitchen sink, it might seem harmless—after all, it’s just liquid, right?
Not exactly.
As grease cools, it solidifies and sticks to the inside of your pipes, creating a sticky trap for food scraps, soap scum, and other debris. Over time, this builds into a full blockage that slows drainage or completely backs up your sink.
University Place homes, especially those built before the 1990s, often have older plumbing that’s more vulnerable to grease-related clogs. Plus, Tacoma’s cool, damp climate helps that grease solidify even faster.
🔗 Learn more about the science behind grease clogs from the EPA
🧼 Signs You’re Dealing with a Grease Clog
- Water drains slowly from your kitchen sink
- A foul odor is coming from the drain
- You hear gurgling sounds when the sink empties
- You’ve needed to use a plunger more often than usual
If you notice any of these signs in your University Place home, it’s likely grease is building up in your pipes—and it won’t go away on its own.
✅ How to Avoid Grease Clogs in the First Place
1. Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain.
Instead, pour it into a metal can, let it harden, and throw it in the trash.
2. Wipe Pans Before Washing.
Use a paper towel to soak up any leftover oil or fat from pans before rinsing them.
3. Install a Drain Screen.
This catches food particles that might otherwise wash down with grease.
4. Use Boiling Water Weekly.
Pour a kettle of boiling water down your kitchen drain once a week to help melt and flush minor buildup.
5. Run Hot Water + Dish Soap After Cooking.
Hot water and soap can help break down smaller traces of grease before they harden.
📌 Bonus Tip: For older homes in University Place, consider a professional camera inspection once a year to catch hidden buildup before it causes major damage.
🛠️ Already Clogged? Don’t Wait—Call the Local Pros
If your drain is already slow, DIY fixes like baking soda or plungers might only be temporary band-aids. For full, long-term relief—especially for grease-heavy clogs—it’s best to schedule a professional drain cleaning.
That’s where Einstein Pros in University Place, Tacoma comes in.
With decades of local experience, our Tacoma plumbing team uses eco-friendly hydro-jetting and advanced camera inspections to completely clear out grease and restore your drain flow without damaging your pipes.
🧠 Why Einstein Pros is the Smart Choice for University Place Homeowners
- Locally based Tacoma professionals who know University Place plumbing layouts
- No-hassle scheduling and same-day appointments
- Upfront pricing and no hidden fees
- Licensed and insured plumbers with years of experience
💬 “Einstein Pros found a major grease blockage we didn’t even know was there—right before it became a disaster. I highly recommend them to anyone in University Place!”
– Lindsey C., Tacoma Homeowner
📞 Ready to Clear That Drain?
Don’t let a grease clog turn into a major plumbing emergency. Call Einstein Pros today or book your service online for fast, friendly, and professional help in University Place, Tacoma.
👉 Book Your Drain Cleaning Service with Einstein Pros in University Place Now