How to Prevent Clogged Drains in Your Home | Pearland Plumber
Be Careful About What Goes Down the Drain
One of the easiest ways to prevent clogs is by being mindful of what you allow to go down your drains. Certain materials, when washed down the drain, can cause blockages over time. Here’s what to avoid:
Kitchen Sinks: Never pour grease, oil, or fats down the kitchen sink. These substances solidify as they cool, leading to stubborn clogs. Instead, pour them into a container and dispose of them in the trash.
Bathroom Sinks & Showers: Hair is one of the main culprits behind clogged bathroom drains. Use a drain guard or hair catcher to trap hair before it enters the pipes, and clean it out regularly.
Toilets: Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper. Items like wipes, sanitary products, and cotton balls don’t break down properly and can cause serious blockages.
By keeping these materials out of your drains, you’ll reduce the risk of clogs forming in the first place.
Install Drain Guards to Catch Debris
Drain guards or strainers are simple yet effective tools for preventing clogs. These inexpensive devices fit over your drain and catch debris like food scraps, hair, and soap scum before they can enter your pipes. Install them in your kitchen sink, bathroom sinks, and showers, and clean them out regularly to ensure proper drainage.
Keep Your Drains Clean with Routine Maintenance
Routine drain cleaning can go a long way in preventing clogs. Every week or so, flush your drains with hot water to help clear out any debris that may have accumulated. You can also use natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar:
Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
Follow with half a cup of vinegar.
Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes.
Flush the drain with hot water.
This simple method helps break down grease and debris, keeping your drains flowing smoothly.
Avoid Grease and Oil in Kitchen Drains
One of the biggest culprits for clogged kitchen drains is grease buildup. When hot grease cools, it solidifies and sticks to the walls of your pipes, eventually leading to a blockage. To prevent this:
Let cooking oils and grease cool before disposing of them in the trash.
Wipe down greasy pans and plates with a paper towel before washing them.
Taking these steps can prevent grease from clogging your kitchen drains.
Flush Drains with Boiling Water
If you suspect there may be some grease buildup in your kitchen drains, one of the easiest ways to clear it is by flushing the drain with boiling water. The heat helps break down any grease or soap scum sticking to the pipes. Simply boil a pot of water and carefully pour it down the drain once a week to keep things clear.
Stay Away from Harsh Chemical Cleaners
While it might be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners for tough clogs, these products can actually do more harm than good. The harsh chemicals can corrode your pipes over time and cause more problems in the long run. Instead, opt for natural methods like the baking soda and vinegar solution mentioned above or call a professional plumber for stubborn clogs.
Get Regular Drain Maintenance from a Plumber
Even with good habits and routine cleaning, it’s a good idea to schedule professional drain cleaning once a year. A licensed plumber can use advanced tools like hydro jetting to thoroughly clean your pipes and remove any buildup that might lead to clogs down the road. Regular professional maintenance ensures that your plumbing system stays in top shape and helps prevent expensive repairs.
Conclusion: Keep Your Drains Flowing Smoothly
By following these simple tips, you can keep your drains clear and avoid the hassle of clogs. However, if you do encounter a stubborn blockage or need expert advice, Pearland Plumber is here to help. Our team of experienced plumbers offers fast, reliable drain cleaning services to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
Call (409) 254-4347 or Request a Free Quote to schedule your drain cleaning today!
