How to Prevent Clogged Drains

A Simple Guide to Getting & Keeping Clog-Free Drains

When issues with your plumbing system crop up, it can be a frustrating time for everyone. The interruptions can be inconvenient, and clogs have the potential to cause larger, more expensive problems if left untreated. Though sometimes clogs are unavoidable, there are some things that property owners can do to minimize the risk and maximize system health and function.

Routine Maintenance

There are countless things to be careful of, but at the end of the day, just some basic weekly and monthly maintenance can do a world of good for your plumbing system. For example, make a habit every weekend of clearing out the drain covers or stoppers in your sinks and tubs to remove hair and debris. On a monthly basis, you can clean the garbage disposal by grinding up some ice or some table salt to easily scrub the sides of the machine, followed by half of a lime or lemon for a pleasant smell. For more in-depth maintenance, you can even call in your local plumber to make sure everything is in good condition!

Use Mesh Screens

One of the most common causes of clogged drains is simply a build-up of things like food particles, hair, and other debris. By using mesh screens, you can help to filter out the majority of these things and dispose of them in the garbage or compost as it applies. As an added bonus, mesh screens help to prevent the accidental loss of small things like jewelry or small toys if accidentally dropped into the sink or tub!

Minimize Hair from People & Pets

For all members of the family, it can be beneficial to brush thoroughly before showers or baths. This will help to remove much of the loose hair outside of the tub and keep it out of your drains. For pets, try washing them outside when the weather is warm enough. In either case, make sure your drains are covered.

Use the Garbage Disposal Sparingly

Though it is a remarkably useful tool, the garbage disposal can sometimes lead people to believe that more can go down the drain than it should really handle. Minimizing the number of dense substances that go into the garbage disposal can both decrease the likelihood of clogs and save energy and water as well.

Take Necessary Precautions for Kids

If you have young kids in your home, it is a good idea to actively work with them on where they should and should not play with their toys. Things being dropped down drains or flushed down toilets are exceedingly common and can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. If they are old enough, teach them what should and should not go in the toilet – if not, child locks and other barriers may help prevent these issues.

Protect Your Drains from Foreign Objects

There are pretty much only three things that can definitely go down the drain or toilet – water, toilet paper, and waste. That is what the system was designed for. Absolutely anything else has the potential to cause problems in the line and result in costly repairs. This includes things like coffee grounds, fats, oils, grease, and other food or food by-products, as well as things that claim to be “flushable.” Store-bought drain cleaning solutions should also be avoided at all costs. Not only are they minimally effective at best, but they also tend to cause corrosion and damage to the pipe system.

Whether you find yourself in need of drain cleaning right now or simply want to set your system up for success, Rooter Guard can help! Call (818) 572-9743 today to learn more from our team.

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