The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Drains Clean at Home
Having clogged drains at home can be a headache for any homeowner. It can cause inconvenience and even lead to costly repairs. However, maintaining your drains doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of knowledge and practice, you can keep your drains functioning smoothly, avoid clogs, and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. In this blog post, we will give you the ultimate guide to keeping your drains clean at home.
1. Never Pour Grease Down the Drain
One of the leading causes of clog in drains is the build-up of grease and oil. Pouring grease down the drain might seem convenient at the time, but it will harden and stick to the inside of your pipes, gradually building up over time. The best way to dispose of cooking oil and grease is to let it cool down, and then scrape it into the trash. If you must dispose of it down the drain, use a paper towel to wipe it out of the pan and throw it in the trash.
2. Use a Drain Strainer
A drain strainer is an inexpensive and practical tool that can help prevent clogs from forming in your sink and shower drains. It can trap hair, soap scum, and food particles, which would otherwise make their way into your pipes. Simply install a strainer over the drain and empty it regularly. This way, you can avoid having to use harsh chemicals or hiring a plumber to unclog your drains.
3. Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your drains clean and functioning smoothly. A few simple tasks that you should add to your household maintenance routine are:
– Pouring boiling water once a week through your sink and shower drain to dissolve any build-up of grease and soap scum.
– Using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by boiling water.
– Flushing your kitchen sink with hot water and dishwashing soap after every use.
– Using an enzymatic cleaner to break down biofilm and organic debris in your pipes every three months.
4. Don't Use Chemical Drain Cleaners
Although chemical drain cleaners seem like an easy and quick fix for a clogged drain, they can cause more problems than they solve. Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can corrode your pipes and damage the plumbing system. Moreover, they often only provide a temporary solution, and the clog will resurface soon after. Instead, use natural or enzymatic drain cleaners, a plunger or snake, or call a professional plumber if the clog persists.
5. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Toilet
Although your toilet might seem like a convenient way to dispose of trash, it can cause severe damage to your plumbing system. Flushing items that are not designed to be disposed of in the toilet, such as paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and cotton swabs, can clog your drains and even damage your septic system. Only flush toilet paper and waste, and dispose of everything else in the trash.
Proper maintenance and good habits are key to keeping your drains clean and functioning smoothly. By being mindful of what goes down your drains and taking some simple maintenance steps, you can avoid clogs, extend the lifespan of your plumbing system, and save yourself money and hassle in the long run. Remember, when in doubt, seek the help of a professional plumber who can provide you with the best advice and service.
https://www.plumberlittletonco.com/drain-cleaning
www.plumberlittletonco.com/drain-cleaning
Having clogged drains at home can be a headache for any homeowner. It can cause inconvenience and even lead to costly repairs. However, maintaining your drains doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of knowledge and practice, you can keep your drains functioning smoothly, avoid clogs, and extend the lifespan of…