Having properly functioning drains in your kitchen and bathroom is necessary for a clean, comfortable living environment. However, drain issues are common, and they can disrupt your daily routine.
To help you prevent such problems, we have compiled this list of tips for maintaining healthy drains. By following these dos and avoiding the don'ts, you can keep your drains in optimal condition and minimize the need for costly repairs.
1. Be Aware of Your Food Disposal
Do: Scrape food scraps into the trash, compost bin, or sink garbage disposal before washing dishes.
Doing so keeps chunks from collecting in your pipes, causing drain issues.
Don't: Pour grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the drain.
These substances can solidify and cause clogs, leading to costly, time-consuming plumbing issues.
2. Regular Cleaning Regimen
Do: Clean your drains regularly with boiling water down them. Doing so helps flush away any debris that may have accumulated, preventing clogs and unpleasant odors from forming.
Remember that cleaning is not limited to visible surfaces. It also includes areas that may not be as noticeable, such as drains.
Don't: Use chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your pipes and harm the environment.
3. Use Drain Screens
Do: Install drain screens or strainers to catch hair, soap residue, and other debris that can lead to blockages.
These simple, affordable devices have a big impact on your plumbing. They can keep your drains flowing properly and prevent future plumbing issues.
Don't: Allow hair, dental floss, or cotton swabs to go down the drain. This debris can tangle and create stubborn clogs.
Always be aware of what goes down the drain, and you can avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with a backed-up plumbing system.
4. Be Mindful of Flushing
Do: Only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet.
It can be tempting to just flush whatever you need to dispose of, but doing so can cause major blockages in your plumbing system.
Don't: Flush feminine hygiene products, wipes, or any other items, as they can cause major blockages in your plumbing system.
Items like these are not designed to break down easily, and they can cause serious damage to your pipes. These days, many brands advertise “flushable” wipes. Even these products do not disintegrate easily, and they have been known to cause city-wide sewage problems in some places.
5. Preventative Maintenance
Do: Schedule regular professional inspections and maintenance to detect any potential issues before they become major problems.
Preventative maintenance is crucial in ensuring the longevity of your plumbing system. From checking for leaks to flushing out your pipes, a skilled plumber can do a lot to keep your plumbing system functioning properly.
Don't: Ignore signs of slow drainage or strange smells coming from your drains. Signs like these may indicate a developing issue that requires attention.
Neglecting regular maintenance can result in costly repairs down the line. Don't ignore the signs of a plumbing problem. Doing so may lead to more significant issues. Stay on top of preventative maintenance by scheduling regular inspections with a reliable plumbing professional.
How a Plumber Can Maintain Healthy Drains
- A maintenance plan can ensure that your plumbing system functions properly and is free of clogs and buildups.
- Plumbers can recommend effective, natural drain cleaners instead of harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes over time.
- They can perform regular drain cleaning, eliminating the buildup of debris, grease, and other materials that clog your pipes.
- A plumber can inspect your pipes to identify potential issues and take a proactive approach to keep your drain system running smoothly.
If you’re having drain problems, contact Creech's Plumbing today. You can schedule an appointment with us online or by phone at (252) 262-2708.