Drain issues are frustrating. The most common household drain problem is clogs. When your drainpipes are blocked, there is no place for the water to go. This results in backups and flooding. These problems lead to pricey plumbing repairs. They can also harm your floors, walls, and ceilings. This new year, you can avoid drain complications by adopting a few simple habits.
New Kitchen Habits
Always dispose of grease properly. Never put fats, grease, or oils down your kitchen sink drain. Once they cool, they will solidify. They will coat your pipes and build up over time. Instead, pour these liquids into a disposable container, such as an old jar or can. Once the grease solidifies, throw it in the trash.
Use mesh strainers or drain screens to catch scraps of food. This will keep them out of your plumbing system. Make it a routine to empty the strainer into the trash daily.
Use your garbage disposal properly. It’s designed to handle small food particles, not all of your waste. Don’t put fibrous foods, like corn husks and celery, into the disposal. Also, avoid putting starchy items, coffee grounds, or eggshells in it. It is best to run water while using the garbage disposal. This will help flush food particles down the drain.
After you use your kitchen drain, run hot water. A minute or two will do the trick. Hot water dissolves minor grease and soap buildup to keep your drains clear.
New Bathroom Habits
Use hair catchers in your bathrooms. Place them in your showers and bathtubs to catch loose hair before it goes down the drain. Clean them after each use. Brushing your hair before you shower helps keep hair from clogging the drains.
The only things you should flush down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Keep a trash can nearby for items that don’t break down. This includes cotton balls, paper towels, and sanitary products. Even “flushable” wipes should be thrown in the trash. They don’t break down in your pipes.
Additional Tips
Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners. These solutions can corrode your pipes and cause damage to your plumbing system. Instead, choose natural cleaners or enzyme-based solutions. A mix of baking soda and white vinegar works well to remove buildup and odors. But it is not the solution if you have a clogged drain.
Explain to your family members what can and cannot go down your drains. These habits are easy to do, and they will save you the headache of clogged drains. If you do run into a problem or experience sluggish drains, we can help. Call Waccamaw Cooling in Myrtle Beach, SC, to schedule drain cleaning services that can clear your home’s plumbing system.
