How can a maintenance worker identify a clogged drain?

A clogged drain is often identified by the visibility of slow drainage or frequent backups in sinks, tubs, or other fixtures. When water takes longer to flow through a drain than usual, or if there is standing water, these symptoms indicate that there is an obstruction preventing normal water passage. This is a primary sign that maintenance workers are trained to look for when diagnosing drainage issues.

Observing solid waste build-up can certainly contribute to identifying drainage issues, but it may not be as direct an indicator as slow drainage or backups, which are more immediate signs of a clog. Checking water temperatures and listening for unusual noises may help in identifying various plumbing issues, but they are not specific indicators of a clogged drain. Slow drainage and backups are the most reliable indicators that suggest the presence of a blockage, making this choice the most appropriate response.