How To Keep Your Drains Clog Free

Tips to Ensure Your Drains Stay Clog-free

Your drains are essential to the daily flow of your home. When drains become clogged, it can be a real inconvenience and cause major problems if left unchecked. Fortunately, you can easily prevent clogs and other drain-related problems with some simple techniques.

Avoid Pouring Grease and Oils Down the Drain

Grease and oils will quickly harden as they cool, leading to clogs in your pipes. They can also build up over time, reducing water flow and causing a backup. It’s best to pour any fats, oils, or grease into a can or jar that can be sealed and disposed of properly.

If you accidentally pour grease down the drain, try pouring baking soda down the drain, followed by vinegar, then follow up with hot water to help dissolve any remaining grease. This can be done every few months to help prevent future clogs.

Clean Your Shower Drains Regularly

Hair, soap scum, and other debris can quickly build up in your shower drain. They can clog up the lines and create an unpleasant smell. You should pick up any visible debris when showering and throw it in the trash.

Remove Unnecessary Items From Drains

Many items can easily fall through the drain and cause clogs. This includes hair ties, cotton swabs, balls of hair or fur, jewelry, or other items that can fit through the drain screens. You should regularly check and remove these items from your drains to ensure that they remain clog-free. Also, keep debris from falling in the drains when doing household chores such as mowing the lawn or sweeping.

Install a Drain Screen

Drain screens are designed to catch food particles and other debris that could cause clogs. Installing them in all your sinks and drains can help prevent these items from entering the drainpipes and eventually causing a blockage. Be sure to clean the strainers to ensure that they remain effective regularly.

The screens you purchase should fit the size of your drains, so make sure to measure them before buying. They should also be easy to remove for cleaning. If you are having difficulty finding one for a specific drain, you can use a wire mesh to create your own. Most drains come with an installed drain screen, but if yours does not, you can purchase one from your local home improvement store. Opt for stainless steel screens, which are the most durable and effective.

Wipe Food Particles Off Dishes

Food particles like coffee grounds, eggshells, and vegetable peels can easily clog drains. Before rinsing them in the sink, always remove any leftover food particles from dishes and pots. If you have a garbage disposal, avoid putting fibrous foods such as celery or onion skins in them, as these can easily get stuck and cause clogs.

You should also ensure that your garbage disposal is regularly cleaned and maintained so that it runs efficiently. This means running cold water for about 15 seconds after each use and avoiding putting too much food down the drain at once. Finally, you can pour a cup of baking soda down the drain every few weeks to help break up any food particles that may have built up.

Flush Hot Water Down the Drain

Flushing hot water down your drains regularly can help to break up any accumulated grease or soap scum that may be causing a blockage. Try running hot water down the drain for about five minutes once a week to help keep your drains clog-free. This should also be done after pouring any liquid fat or grease down the drain.

Use Chemical Cleansers Sparingly

Chemical cleaners can be used to remove blockages but should only be done so sparingly. These chemicals are caustic and can corrode pipes over time, so follow instructions carefully. However, they can be used safely every few months to remove hair, grease, and soap scum that may be building up in the drains.

When using chemical cleansers, be sure to wear gloves and eye protection. You should also avoid getting the chemicals on your skin or inhaling fumes. It’s best to use natural cleansers or clog removers before using chemicals.

Avoid Flushing Foreign Objects

The most common cause of clogs is flushing foreign objects down the toilet. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste. This includes paper towels, cotton balls, and other items that can be disposed of in the trash. These items can easily get stuck and cause a blockage, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

Use Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting is a plumbing technique that uses pressurized water to remove clogs and debris from your pipes. It is an effective method to help remove buildups and blockages in your drains. It should only be done by a trained professional plumber who has the proper equipment to carry out the procedure safely. Contact a plumber to determine if it is the right solution for you.

Regularly Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning

Having your drains professionally cleaned regularly is one of the best ways to keep them clog-free. This should be done at least once a year to ensure maximum efficiency. A professional plumber will use specialized equipment to remove any buildup, blockages, or debris from your drains.

The plumber should also inspect the area for any potential issues that need to be addressed. This can help prevent future problems and costly repairs down the line. They should also be able to provide advice and recommendations for keeping your drains clean in the future.

Buy and Install an Automatic Shut-Off Valve

An automatic shut-off valve is a device that can be installed on the main water supply line to your home. It automatically shuts off the water supply to your home in the event of a clog or blockage. This is a great way to prevent flooding and major water damage from clogged drains. You can purchase an automatic shut-off valve from your local home improvement store and have a professional plumber perform the installation.

Avoid Planting Trees Near Sewer Lines

The root systems of some trees can damage your sewer lines, causing them to become clogged. If you’re planning to plant trees near your home, it’s best to avoid planting trees with aggressive root systems, such as willow, poplar, elm, or sycamore.

Since the roots of some trees can grow up to 15 feet, it’s best to keep them at least 15 feet away from your sewer lines. You should also avoid planting shrubs or other plants near your sewer lines.

Keeping your drains clog-free doesn’t have to be a difficult or expensive process. You can ensure that your drains are running efficiently and effectively with just a few simple steps. If your drains show signs of a blockage, contact one of our professional plumbers immediately so they can help you diagnose and fix the issue.

Call Our Professionals at Universal Plumbing & Rooter!

Contact Universal Plumbing & Rooter today to learn more about how we can help you keep your drains clog-free!