Clogging

Clogging is the obstruction of a passage in a system by debris, leading to reduced flow or complete blockage. It most commonly occurs in plumbing and drainage, but can affect any closed conduit, such as sewer lines, filters, or vents. Clogs arise when materials accumulate more quickly than they can be carried away by the fluid, or when hard mineral deposits, corrosion, or roots intrude into the passage.

Common causes include hair and soap scum in drains, dairy grease in kitchen lines, food waste, fibrous vegetables, mineral buildup, rust, and sediment. In sewer lines, tree roots and collapsed piping can create major blockages. Symptoms include slow drainage, frequent backups, gurgling sounds, foul odors, or high water in traps. Diagnosis may involve visual inspection, drain cameras, pressure testing, or snaking with a flexible auger. Treatment ranges from mechanical removal with plungers, snakes, or hydro-jetting to chemical cleaners; in some cases, pipe repair or replacement is required. Preventive measures include regular cleaning, strainers, disposing of grease properly, avoiding flushing non-flushables, and periodic maintenance.

Clogging also denotes a style of percussive dance known as clogging, which developed in the United States with influences from Irish and African American dancing and later bluegrass, country, and tap traditions. It features rapid, rhythmic footwork and stomping, often performed with audible rhythmic sounds from the shoes. Regional styles include Appalachian, Ohio, and Mississippi forms. Clogging is taught in studios and at competitions, and is recognized as a folk dance with dedicated organizations and events.