Easy tips for every home to prevent a clogged drain
Clogged drains can be a real headache. They slow down your sinks, make showers a mess, and sometimes even cause water leaks. But there are some simple things you can do to keep your drains clear and avoid these problems. Let’s dive into how you can prevent clogged drains and keep your home’s plumbing system working as it should.
Use drain guards
One of the easiest ways to prevent clogged drains is by using drain guards. These are little mesh covers that you place over your drains. They catch stuff like hair and food scraps before they go down the pipe. They’re super easy to install and clean. Just pop them off, rinse off the trapped stuff, and put them back. Using drain guards in your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and shower can help stop most common clogged drain causes.
Dispose of waste properly
What you put down your drains makes a big difference. In the kitchen, don’t dump grease, oil, or big food scraps down the sink. Grease and oil can harden and cause major blockages in your pipes. Instead, pour grease into a container and throw it away. For large food scraps, use a compost bin or toss them in the trash.
In the bathroom, be careful about what you flush down the toilet. Don’t flush things like wipes, cotton balls, or sanitary products. Even items labeled as “flushable” can cause problems. The best practice is to throw these things in the bin instead of flushing them.
Regular cleaning
Regular cleaning of your drains can keep them from getting clogged. In the kitchen, running hot water down the sink daily helps to dissolve any fats or oils that might have built up. You can also do a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning with a mix of baking soda and vinegar. Just pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then flush it with hot water.
In the bathroom, hair is a big problem for clogs. Use a hair catcher in your shower to trap hair before it goes down the drain. Clean it out regularly to keep things flowing smoothly. For sink drains, you can use the baking soda and vinegar method mentioned earlier to keep them clear.
Check for leaks
While it’s not directly about preventing clogged drains, keeping an eye out for water leaks can help avoid water damage and bigger plumbing issues. If you see any signs of leaks, like water spots or damp areas, get them checked out right away. A water leak can sometimes mean there’s a clog causing water to back up.
Use a plumbing snake
For clogged drain that doesn’t respond to baking soda and vinegar, a plumbing snake can be a handy tool. A plumbing snake is a long, flexible tool that can reach deep into your pipes and break up or remove clogs. You can buy a basic plumbing snake at most hardware stores, or you might want to call us, local plumber and hot water specialist, if the clog is too tough.
Maintain your garbage disposal
If you have a garbage disposal, keeping it in good shape can help avoid clogs. Always run cold water while using the disposal to help flush food particles through the pipes. Avoid putting large or hard items like bones and fibrous vegetables (like celery) into the disposal. Regularly clean your disposal by grinding up ice cubes and lemon peels to keep it fresh and free of buildup.
Educate the family
Sometimes blocked drains happen because people don’t know what should and shouldn’t go down the drains. Educate everyone in your household about the importance of not flushing inappropriate items or putting grease and food scraps down the sink. Make sure they understand the right way to handle waste to avoid clogged drains.
Check outdoor drains
Don’t forget about outdoor drains! Leaves, dirt, and other debris can clog your outdoor drains, leading to water backups and even flooding. Regularly check and clean out any outdoor drains or gutters. Make sure they’re clear of leaves and other debris so that water can flow freely.
Call Local Plumber & Hot Water Specialist
If you’ve tried everything and still face frequent clogged drains, it might be time to call in a professional plumber. Recurring clogs can sometimes signal a bigger problem with your plumbing system. A local plumber can inspect your pipes, identify any issues, and offer solutions to keep your drains clear.
Preventing clogged drains doesn’t have to be a big task. By using drain guards, properly disposing of waste, and doing regular maintenance, you can avoid most common clogs and keep your home’s plumbing in good order. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or need expert advice, Local Plumber and Hot Water Specialist is here to help. We offer same-day plumbing service throughout the Illawarra, Wollongong, Shellharbour, and Shoalhaven areas. Don’t let a clogged drain cause you stress – give us a call today!
With these simple tips, you can keep your drains clear and avoid the headaches of clogged pipes. It’s all about being proactive and taking care of your plumbing before problems start.