How to Keep the Plumbers Away: 3 Tips to Keep Your Drains Free of Clogs
Many homeowners try to deal with clogs on their own by using plungers or commercial drain cleaners.
However, clogs can eventually become a major problem that requires the help of a professional if they are not dealt with properly.
As a homeowner, there are many things you could be doing to contribute to clogged pipes.
Here are some ways you can help prevent your pipes from becoming clogged: Use the Garbage Disposal Sparingly One tip that almost all plumbers will give homeowners is to use the garbage disposal sparingly.
Using a garbage disposal too often can cause clogs, and it can also fill a septic system more quickly.
You should only use the garbage disposal for actual consumable organic waste.
It should never be used to dispose of actual garbage, like paper or other items.
These items can get caught in the drain trap and cause your sink to back up.
To drastically reduce the usage of a garbage disposal, consider starting a compost heap for all of your organic waste.
Things like coffee grounds, eggshells, and vegetable scraps can make great soil for your garden.
Your plumbing will thank you! Place Drain Covers on Drains Another way to prevent clogged drains is to place drain covers on your bathroom and sink drains.
Having your drains covered will prevent hair and any bits of solid material, such as soap, from going down the drain.
Hair can quickly build up and cause a clog, so installing a drain cover will help keep most of the hair out of the pipes.
Prevent Grease or Oil from Going Down the Drain Another problem plumbers often see is clogged pipes due to grease or oil.
Grease, oil, and any type of fat are not good for pipes because it will solidify as it cools.
The oil will stick to the sides of the pipes and can become problematic over time.
Before too long, the pipe could be completely blocked by grease.
Be sure to dispose of oils and grease by placing it in a disposable container and placing it into the trash.
To help prevent any type of clog or other issues with your pipes, be sure to schedule drain cleanings on a regular basis.
Plumbers will clean out the drains by blasting high-pressure water down the pipes to help remove any debris that could be a problem.
This will allow you to maintain a very efficient draining system.