Having a healthy drainage system at home is crucial to the overall well-being of your household’s plumbing system. Ignored drains can lead to several problems, from unpleasant odors to costly repairs.
Fortunately, keeping your home’s drains in top condition doesn’t require a plumbing degree – just some simple, smart habits and regular care are enough to avoid clogs and all the other inconveniences they could bring.
Here are five straightforward, easy-to-implement tips to help you stay on top of your drain maintenance and avoid costly repairs and nasty surprises down the road.
1. Use a Drain Guard
A drain guard is one of the simplest yet most effective tools in your drain maintenance arsenal. These small, typically mesh filters sit over your drain, acting as a barrier that catches hair, food particles, and other debris that can create clogging issues within your drain line. A drain guard makes it easier to avoid buildups that often cause slow drainage and unpleasant odors.
On top of that, they’re quick to install. You can find them at your local hardware store, but you have to ensure you get a drain guard that fits securely over your drain. After installation, make it a habit to empty the debris they collect after each use of the sink or shower.
2. Utilize a Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are excellent appliances for managing food waste, but they’re not indestructible. It’s crucial that you use yours correctly by running cold water before, during, and after disposing of food. Doing so helps the appliance chop up waste and send it down the drain with ease.
More importantly, remember that not all waste is garbage disposal-friendly. Items like coffee grounds, animal bones, nuts and shells, and fibrous or stringy fruits and vegetables can easily clog up your drain and damage the appliance’s grinding mechanism. Pay attention to what you put down your garbage disposal to prevent unnecessary jams and preserve the health of both the appliance and your drains.
3. Mind What You Put Down the Drains
Like your garbage disposal, it’s essential to be mindful of what you allow down your drains. Avoid pouring cooking oils, fats, and grease, as they can solidify once cool and block pipes. Likewise, remember that products like wipes, cotton swabs, and menstrual hygiene items belong in the trash, not the toilet.
It’s also essential to remember that crucial cleaners should be used sparingly, if at all, as they can corrode pipes over time. Instead, consider natural alternatives or enzymatic cleaners that break down clogs without damaging the plumbing.
Finally, educate your family about the importance of keeping inappropriate waste from your drains. A simple change in your household habits can significantly impact the longevity of your home’s plumbing.
4. Flush the Drains With Hot Water Regularly
Weekly flushing of your drains with hot water is a good practice to add to your monthly drain maintenance routine. Simply boil a kettle of water and carefully pour it down your drains. The heat helps loosen any grease, soap scum, or other substances that are starting to build up inside the pipes.
However, be cautious when using boiling water if you have PVC pipes, as extreme heat may loosen the joints. In such cases, using hot tap water is a safer alternative.
5. Schedule a Regular Inspection
Even with the best home drain care, it helps to acknowledge that nothing beats a professional drain inspection. Scheduling a plumber to perform a comprehensive check can unveil potential issues before they escalate into major problems.
Pencil in an annual appointment with your trusted plumber in Argyle as part of your drain maintenance strategy. They not only check your drains through video inspection but also provide specialized cleaning and other necessary services based on what they find. Best of all, they gladly offer advice tailored to your home’s specific needs to help you keep your drains clear and problem-free year-round.
Maintaining Your Home’s Drains Doesn’t Have To Be a Hassle With bluefrog Plumbing + Drain
Healthy drains are an integral part of a comfortable, functional home. The good news is that achieving it doesn’t have to be daunting. Making these straightforward tips a habit helps you protect the longevity of your home’s plumbing system and enjoy problem-free drains all year round.
Best of all, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Argyle is here to take excellent care of your drains and water lines. Our certified plumbers will happily guide you through the necessary steps to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
Don’t wait for an emergency to remember your drains. Contact us today to schedule your video inspection and drain cleaning service, and rest easy knowing your home’s plumbing is in expert hands.
