Clogged drains are the bane of any homeowner’s existence. They can strike at any time, leading to frustration, inconvenience, and sometimes necessitating costly repairs. However, with some proactive measures and a bit of plumbing knowledge, you can say goodbye to these malfunctions for good. In this blog post, we’ll delve into some expert tips to help you prevent drain clogs and keep your plumbing system flowing smoothly.
Prevent Drain Clogs by Understanding the Culprits
Before getting into ways to prevent drain clogs, let’s explore what causes them in the first place. Soap scum, grease, hair, food particles, and foreign objects are common culprits, accumulating in your pipes over time. This can lead to slow draining or complete blockages, throwing a wrench in your daily routines and even necessitating costly repairs. By being mindful of what goes down your drains, you can help prevent drain clogs.
Tip 1: Install Drain Guards
Reducing your risk of clogs doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent drain clogs is installing drain guards in all your showers, tubs, and sinks. These simple, inexpensive devices catch food, scraps, hair, and other debris before they have a chance to infiltrate your plumbing system. All you have to do is regularly empty the drain guard into the trash to keep your pipes clear and functional.
Tip 2: Dispose of Grease Properly
Grease and cooking oil are infamous for causing stubborn clogs in kitchen sinks. These substances harden as they cool, creating blockages. Instead of pouring hot oil or grease down the drain, let them fully cool and solidify in a disposable container like an empty bottle. Once the liquids have solidified, you can toss the container in the trash — no drain needed! This simple practice can prevent grease buildup in your pipes and save you from the stress and headache that come with a malfunctioning kitchen sink.
Tip 3: Use Mesh Laundry Bags for Laundry
Don’t forget about your washing machine! Small fabric fibers from your laundry can build up in your drains over time, causing blockages down the line. To keep your laundry routine running smoothly, consider using mesh laundry bags for garments that shed a lot of lint. These bags contain any shed fibers, preventing them from going down the drain and contributing to future plumbing issues.
Tip 4: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is an excellent way to prevent drain clogs and other plumbing issues. Just like any other system in your home, your plumbing requires occasional attention from a professional to stay in optimal condition. Schedule inspections once or twice a year to check for any signs of potential leaks or clogs. Consider investing in professional drain cleaning services every few years, as well, to remove built-up debris and keep your plumbing system clear.
Tip 5: Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
One of the most effective ways to prevent drain clogs is to be mindful of what you let go down your drains. Avoid flushing anything down the toilet besides toilet paper. Even if products are labeled “flushable,” they may not fully dissolve, so it’s best to throw them in the trash. Never pour hazardous substances like paint or chemicals down any drain. Educate your housemates or family members about proper drain and disposal etiquette to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Tip 6: DIY Solutions
If you encounter any minor drain clogs, you can try several DIY solutions before calling in the professional plumbers. A simple plunger can dislodge stubborn blockages in toilets or phones, while a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can help break down organic matter. After pouring the mixture down the drain, let it sit for about an hour, then pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. If that doesn’t fully clear the clog, you can repeat the process.
However, you must exercise caution when it comes to do-it-yourself plumbing. Harsh chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes, leading to more significant problems down the road. Plus, they can harm the environment. For stubborn clogs, it’s best to call a trained plumber for help.
Drain Clog Solutions by Connect
A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to maintaining your home’s plumbing infrastructure. You can keep your plumbing system running smoothly and prevent drain clogs by incorporating these simple tips into your household routine.
However, despite your efforts to prevent drain clogs, they may still occur. Next time you’re faced with a plumbing problem, call the experts at Connect. Our highly trained plumbers are available 24/7, so no matter when you need us, we’ll be there with the solutions you need.
