As a homeowner, maintaining your plumbing system is essential for a comfortable, stress-free, and pleasant-smelling home. A blocked drain can be a major headache, leading to terrible smells, slow-running water, and potential damage to your property to name a few scenarios.
Before you call in professional drainage contractors, here are some essential tips that anyone can follow to ensure that their drains are kept in tip-top shape.
Install A Drain Cover
A drain cover is a simple, cost-effective way to prevent debris from clogging your pipes and causing blockages. It’s easy to install and catches debris such as hair, food scraps, and soap scum. This prevents damage to your plumbing system, prolonging its lifespan and saving you money in the long run.
The cover also prevents foul odours from entering your home by catching debris before it decomposes. Moreover, using a drain cover has environmental benefits by keeping debris out of the sewer system and local waterways.
Overall, a drain cover is a practical and straightforward solution to maintain a healthy and efficient plumbing system while saving you money and promoting a cleaner environment.
Be Aware Of What You Are Putting Down The Drain
Putting the wrong things down your drain can cause costly and stressful plumbing problems.so it’s essential to know what not to put down your drain.
- Grease and oil are a top offender. They may be liquid when poured, but they solidify when they cool, blocking your pipes.
- Food scraps are also a no-go, as they can accumulate and cause stubborn blockages. Hair can get tangled and create tough-to-remove clogs.
- Only toilet paper should go down the toilet.
- Chemicals like bleach and drain cleaners should never be poured down the drain. They can corrode pipes and harm the environment. Opt for natural remedies or call a plumber for severe blockages.
You can prevent costly repairs and help protect the environment by disposing of grease and food scraps in the bin, catch hair with a drain guard, and use only toilet paper in your drain.
Regularly Run Hot Water Down The Drain
Hot water is an effective way to break down buildup and debris in your pipes. Over time, substances like oils and grease can accumulate in your pipes, causing blockages and slow drainage. Hot water softens this buildup, allowing it to flow through the pipes with ease.
Additionally, hot water kills bacteria and eliminates foul odours. After cooking, washing dishes, or bathing, it’s crucial to run hot water down your drain for a few minutes to prevent buildup. This helps to keep your pipes flowing smoothly and prevent blockages.
Try Natural Remedies To Clean Your Drains
Chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes and harm your health and the environment, making natural remedies a better choice for cleaning your drains.
- Baking soda and vinegar is an effective and easy solution. Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain, wait an hour, and flush it with hot water.
- Boiling water is another great natural remedy that dissolves grease and oil buildup. Pour it down the drain slowly and be cautious not to burn yourself. Salt and baking soda can also clean your drains naturally. Mix half a cup of each and pour it down the drain, let it sit for 30 minutes, and flush with hot water.
These natural remedies can break down buildup and debris in your pipes, keeping them clear without the harsh chemicals. Plus, they are easy to use and safer for you and the environment.
However, If you’re experiencing persistent drain blockages, it may be necessary to undertake underground drain repairs and call on drainage contractors. Ignoring the issue may lead to more severe problems, such as drain collapse or subsidence. That’s why it’s important to call on professional drainage contractors who have the appropriate knowledge and equipment to address the situation.
Consider Investing In A Drain Snake
A drain snake is a flexible tool that can save you money on plumber’s fees by allowing you to remove blockages yourself. It’s easy to use, effective at removing blockages like hair and food debris, and can be used in various plumbing fixtures, making it a versatile and cost-effective solution.
Using a drain snake regularly can also help prevent future blockages by removing buildup and debris from your pipes, keeping your plumbing system flowing smoothly. Unlike chemical drain cleaners, a drain snake physically removes the blockage, ensuring that it doesn’t return. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or want to prevent future blockages, a drain snake is a useful tool to have on hand.
By following these essential tips, you can maintain your drains in tip-top shape and avoid any potential issues or costly repairs. Remember, taking proactive steps to maintain your plumbing system can save on problems and expenses in the long run.