Drain Maintenance Tips
Preventing clogged drains
Keeping your drains clear and flowing smoothly doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a few simple habits, you can prevent clogs and avoid the inconvenience of a backed-up sink or shower. Here are some easy-to-follow tips:
Tips to keep your drains clean
Watch What You Put Down the Drain: The number one cause of clogged drains is putting the wrong things down them. In the kitchen, avoid pouring grease, oil, or leftover food down the sink. Instead, wipe pans with a paper towel and throw it in the trash. In the bathroom, keep hair, soap scum, and other debris out of the drain by using a drain cover.
Use a Drain Catcher: A drain catcher is a simple and inexpensive tool that can catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they go down the drain. Just place one over the drain in your sink, shower, or bathtub, and clean it out regularly.
Don’t Flush Inappropriate Items: Your toilet is only meant to handle human waste and toilet paper. Flushing anything else—like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or cotton balls—can cause serious clogs. Even products labeled “flushable” can create problems, so it’s best to toss them in the trash.
Run Hot Water: After using your sink, run hot water down the drain for a few seconds. This can help wash away any grease or oils that may have gotten into the pipes.
Clean Drains Regularly: Every now and then, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. This can help dissolve and wash away any buildup. For a natural cleaning solution, mix a cup of baking soda with a cup of vinegar, pour it down the drain, and let it sit for 15 minutes before flushing with hot water.
Be Mindful of What Goes in the Garbage Disposal: If you have a garbage disposal, remember that it can only handle small amounts of soft food scraps. Avoid putting things like bones, coffee grounds, pasta, rice, and fibrous vegetables (like celery) down the disposal.
Sometimes, even with the best prevention, clogs can happen. If you notice any of the following signs, it might be time to call in a professional plumber.
Call Virginia Plumbing Services if you notice any of the following:
Slow Draining: If your sink, shower, or bathtub is draining slower than usual, it could be a sign of a clog forming. While you might be able to clear it with a plunger or drain cleaner, persistent slow drains usually need professional attention.
Gurgling Sounds: If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your drains, especially after using water, it could indicate a blockage in the pipes. This noise is caused by air trapped in the plumbing system.
Bad Odors: Unpleasant smells coming from your drains are often a sign of food, grease, or other debris stuck in the pipes. This can also indicate a more serious issue, like a sewer line problem.
Multiple Clogged Drains: If you have more than one drain clogged at the same time, it could be a sign of a blockage in the main sewer line. This is a serious issue that requires professional help.
Water Backing Up: If water starts backing up into your sink, bathtub, or toilet, it’s a clear sign of a blockage. This can lead to water damage and unsanitary conditions, so it’s important to call a plumber right away.
Frequent Clogs: If you find yourself dealing with clogs on a regular basis, it’s worth having a plumber check out your plumbing system. There could be an underlying issue causing the repeated blockages.
Overflowing Toilet: An overflowing toilet can be caused by a simple clog or a more serious issue. If plunging doesn’t work, it’s time to call a professional.
Taking care of your drains and knowing when to call a plumber can save you time, money, and frustration. By following these tips and paying attention to the warning signs, you can keep your plumbing system in great shape and avoid the headaches of clogged drains. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help!