Most homeowners have experienced the mess a clogged drain creates. Unfortunately, these unwanted plumbing problems are often the result of neglected drain maintenance.
No one wants to spend their free time tending to their pipes, but it’s an essential chore that will help you avoid smelly, backed-up water and expensive repairs. It’s easy to keep your pipes flowing when you know the best bathroom or kitchen drain maintenance techniques. Curious about what to do? Follow these four drain maintenance tips!
1. Perform Drain Cleaning Maintenance Weekly
You can keep your drain pipes clear with one simple weekly maintenance tip — it doesn’t require any special tools, and you probably have everything you need!
Hot water is a simple and effective natural drain cleaner. It can reduce the buildup of grease, fat, and oil stuck in the pipes. You can let hot water run directly into the drain for a few minutes to remove excess gunk and debris.
Baking soda also works miracles on smelly and clogged drains. Once a week, pour a cup of it into your drain. Leave it to set for five to ten minutes, then flush the drain with hot water. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive to help loosen residue and clear minor clogs.
2. Be Mindful of What You Put Down the Drain
The best way to protect your drain system is to know what can and cannot go down the pipes. A plumbing system is designed to handle human waste and water. Anything else could cause clogging and damage.
Food waste is a typical cause of clogged drains, primarily in the kitchen. This waste typically enters the plumbing as you wash dishes. Unfortunately, this is bad news for your pipes.
The following items are more likely to damage or clog drains:
- Coffee grounds
- FOG (fat, oil, and grease)
- Eggshells
- Pasta and rice
- Unused medicine
- “Flushable” wipes and paper towels
By using a screen or drain cover, you can protect your drain and pipes. These devices will stop debris from entering your plumbing system.
3. Don’t Overuse the Garbage Disposal
If you’re using your garbage disposal as a trash can, you could ruin the fixture — and clog your pipes. Garbage disposals are designed to eliminate small particles of food or anything that slips past your drain screen. They’re not designed for large scraps like potato peels.
Run your garbage disposal at least once weekly to make sure it’s working correctly. Keep the cold water faucet on while the disposal is running for additional drain maintenance.
4. Schedule Drain Maintenance Services
There is only so much you can do without the help of a professional plumber. Schedule yearly drain cleaning services so you know that your pipes are clear. These services will prevent large clogs from forming and damaging your pipes.
Reliable Drain Maintenance From Local Pros
If you want to keep your drains healthy and clear, talk to an expert at Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. We’ll offer additional tips, such as clog-free shower drain maintenance instructions, to protect your plumbing.
We aim to keep your pipes flowing as they should! Contact us to schedule drain cleaning or other plumbing services.
