Clogged drains disrupt and cause more nuisance, and many times it is the reason for urgent calls for expert emergency plumbing services to help restore normalcy. The reality is that most of these expensive, inconvenient problems could have been prevented with proper drain care. The expert plumbers with years of experience have shared a few top recommendations to help you avoid the hassle and expense of clogged drains.
Install Quality Drain Strainers
The Sturgeon Falls plumber would swear that one of the simplest yet most effective preventative measures is installing quality drain strainers in your sinks, showers, and bathtubs. These inexpensive devices catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter your property’s plumbing system. For kitchen sinks, opt for strainers with small holes to catch food waste while allowing water to flow freely. In bathrooms, mesh strainers effectively catch hair, which is one of the most common reasons for bathroom drain clogs.
Never Pour Fats, Oils, or Grease Down the Drain
This is perhaps the most important rule for kitchen drain maintenance. When hot, fats, oils, and grease (FOG) may appear liquid, but they solidify as they cool in your pipes, creating stubborn blockages that are difficult to remove. Instead, pour used cooking oils and grease into a container, allow them to solidify, and dispose of them in your household waste. For dishes with oily residue, wipe them with a paper towel before washing.
Run Hot Water After Each Use
After using any sink, run hot water for approximately 15 seconds. Hot water helps flush away residue that might otherwise build up in your pipes over time. This simple habit is particularly important in the kitchen sink after washing dishes and in bathroom sinks after activities like shaving or applying makeup.
Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
Even with diligent prevention, some buildup in your pipes is inevitable. Expert plumbers recommend scheduling professional drain cleaning once every 12-18 months. Professional maintenance allows to clear minor buildups before they become major blockages and inspect your plumbing system for potential issues. Think of it as a check-up for your pipes—prevention is always less expensive than emergency repairs.
Be Mindful of What Goes Down Your Toilet
Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Items marketed as “flushable,” such as wipes and feminine hygiene products, often don’t break down properly and can cause serious blockages. Establish a household rule that only toilet paper goes into the toilet, and keep a lined waste bin in the bathroom for all other disposables.
Use Natural Cleaning Solutions Monthly
Once a month, give your drains a gentle cleaning with a natural solution such as pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by 120 grams of baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes, then pour in 120 ml of white vinegar mixed with 120 ml of hot water. The resulting foam reaction helps break down buildup and eliminate odours. After 10 minutes, flush with another kettle of boiling water.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
Despite being common, it may sound counterintuitive, as the majority of professional plumbers discourage the use of chemical drain cleaners. Harsh products damage your pipes. These tough products create damage to your pipes from frequent use and represent an ecological and health hazard. Moreover, they frequently carve only a narrow path through the clog, not removing it, leaving the issue to return soon.
Consider a Drain Maintenance Schedule
Create a simple drain maintenance calendar for your household. Weekly activities might include pouring hot water down drains, while monthly tasks could include using the baking soda and vinegar solution. Note when professional maintenance was last performed and when it’s due again.
Conclusion:
Follow these plumber-approved prevention tips and you’ll cut down on your chances of clogged drains by a long shot. Not only will this save you from the stress and expense of emergency plumber calls, but it also increases the life of your plumbing system.
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