When it comes to keeping our drains clear, we often don’t think about the little steps we can take until it’s too late. Professional plumbers have a few essential tips that can help us avoid the hassle of clogged drains. Simple actions like using drain screens to catch debris, properly disposing of grease, and regularly cleaning sink stoppers can make a significant difference. We can also maintain free-flowing pipes by flushing them with hot water weekly and using enzyme cleaners monthly. But that’s just the beginning—let’s explore other effective strategies to keep our plumbing system in top shape.
Use Drain Screens
Although it might seem simple, using drain screens is an effective way to prevent clogged drains. We’ve all experienced the frustration of a slow-draining sink or shower, and often, the culprit is debris that could’ve been easily stopped with a drain screen. These handy devices catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they can make their way into the pipes and cause blockages.
Let’s think about the kitchen sink, for example. When we wash dishes, small food scraps often slip down the drain. Over time, these bits accumulate and can lead to a nasty clog. A drain screen acts as the first line of defense, catching those scraps and making cleanup easier.
In the bathroom, hair is a common issue. As we wash our hair, strands inevitably fall out and head straight for the drain. A drain screen can catch these hairs before they form a tangled mess inside our pipes. Installing drain screens is a quick and inexpensive measure. They come in various sizes and materials, so we can find the perfect fit for any sink or tub.
Dispose of Grease Properly
Grease is one of the biggest culprits behind clogged drains, and it’s essential we dispose of it properly to avoid plumbing issues. When we pour grease down the drain, it cools and solidifies, creating blockages that can lead to costly cleaning and repairs.
Regularly Clean Stoppers
When it comes to preventing clogged drains, one simple yet often overlooked task is regularly cleaning the stoppers in our sinks and tubs.
These small devices do a lot more than just keep water in the basin—they also trap hair, soap scum, and other debris that can quickly build up and lead to blockages. By taking a few minutes every week to clean these stoppers, we can save ourselves a lot of hassle down the road.
First, we need to remove the stopper. Most stoppers can be easily lifted out or unscrewed. Once we’ve got it out, we should rinse it under hot water to loosen any gunk.
Using an old toothbrush or a small brush, scrub away any debris stuck to the stopper. Don’t forget to check the drain opening for any additional buildup and clean that area as well. After everything is clean, we can reassemble the stopper and put it back in place.
Flush Drains With Hot Water
A straightforward way to keep our drains clear is by regularly flushing them with hot water. This simple yet effective method helps dissolve build-ups like grease, soap scum, and small debris that can accumulate and cause blockages.
While flushing our drains with hot water is a great preventive measure, it’s equally important to be mindful of what we send down those drains.
We often don’t realize that common household items can cause serious blockages. Personal hygiene products like wipes, cotton balls, and feminine products should never be flushed. Even if a product claims to be “flushable,” it can still cause issues in our plumbing system.
In the kitchen, food scraps, grease, and coffee grounds are notorious for clogging drains. Grease solidifies as it cools, forming stubborn blockages. We should pour used grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash instead.
Coffee grounds and food particles should go in the compost or trash, not down the sink. It’s also wise to avoid flushing hair and dental floss. Hair clumps together and mixes with other debris, creating dense clogs. Dental floss isn’t biodegradable and can wrap around other objects, making clogs worse.
Install a Garbage Disposal
Installing a garbage disposal can be a game-changer in keeping our kitchen drains clear. By grinding up food waste, a garbage disposal helps us avoid the buildup of debris that can lead to clogs. Not only does it simplify cleanup, but it also promotes a more efficient waste management system in our kitchens.
Use Enzyme Cleaners
Even with diligent care, our drains can still become clogged over time. That’s where enzyme cleaners come into play. These products are a fantastic, eco-friendly way to keep our pipes clear without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Unlike traditional drain cleaners, enzyme cleaners use natural bacteria and enzymes to break down organic material like grease, hair, and food particles.
The use enzyme cleaners regularly, ideally once a month, to maintain free-flowing drains. Simply follow the instructions on the packaging—usually, it involves pouring the solution down the drain and letting it sit overnight. This gives the enzymes time to break down the gunk, making it easier to flush away with water the next morning.
