You’re washing dishes or taking a shower, and suddenly the water starts to back up. Clogged drains are a major inconvenience, and they can also be a real drain on your wallet. Fortunately, you can prevent many drain issues with a little knowledge and some simple habits that you can start implementing today.
Your Drains Are Not Garbage Cans
One of the biggest mistakes people make is treating their drains like garbage cans. Items like food scraps, grease, and hair can cause major clogs. If you pour bacon grease down your sink, it will harden as it cools and stick to the pipes, creating a sticky trap for other debris. The same goes for coffee grounds and even so-called “flushable” wipes. Your drains are designed for water and waste alone.
Show Your Drains Some Serious Love
You know that you must do chores regularly to keep your house clean, or the environment can become unsanitary, and you can get ill. Your drains are no different. You must clean them regularly so that they remain clean and free of clogs. A simple way to keep them flowing freely is to flush them with hot water regularly. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and white or apple cider vinegar for a natural drain cleaner. Pour some baking soda down the drain, followed by vinegar, and let it fizz for a while before flushing with hot water.
Hair Today, Not Always Gone Tomorrow
Hair is a common culprit for clogged drains, especially in showers and bathtubs. To prevent hair from going down the drain, use a strainer to catch it before it becomes a problem. You can also try brushing your hair before showering to minimize shedding.
Be Mindful About What You Flush
Remember those “flushable” wipes we mentioned earlier? They’re not as flushable as they claim to be. They don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause serious clogs in your sewer line. The same goes for feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and cotton balls. Flush only human waste and toilet paper down the toilet.
Know When to Call a Plumber
Even with the best preventive measures, drain issues are sometimes unavoidable. If you have a stubborn clog that you can’t clear yourself, or if you notice other plumbing problems, such as leaks or strange noises, call a plumber. They have the tools and training to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
If you are not implementing these tips as part of your routine, start now. When you do this, you can prevent serious drain problems and save yourself a considerable amount of money and heartache. If you do encounter a problem and need drain cleaning and repair services in Central Georgia or the Florida Panhandle, call We Care Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric.