Clogged drains can be a real pain. Not only are they incredibly inconvenient, but clogged or blocked drains can also cause expensive damage – especially when not taken care of quickly.

Fortunately, there are some ways you can do to prevent your drains from getting blocked in the first place. In this blog post, we’ll look at some things to observe. They will help to keep your drains flowing freely and avoid a costly clog. Read on to learn more!

1. Use A Drain Screen

A drain screen is a simple and effective way to prevent blocked drains. This device is designed to fit over the top of your drain to hold large items before they can get stuck in the pipes. Many homeowners forget to put one in place, and this can lead to costly clogs in the future.

They are usually made from a durable material (plastic, metal, or rubber) that is easy to clean and maintain. They are available in various shapes and sizes and can be purchased at most hardware stores or online.

Once installed, the drain screen acts as a filter, allowing water and small particles to pass through while catching larger items such as hair, food particles, and other debris.

Regularly inspecting and cleaning your drain screen is important to ensure it functions properly. To clean the screen, use a damp cloth and mild soap. Rinse it thoroughly after cleaning, so no residual soap is left on the surface.

2. Don’t Pour Grease

Grease is one of the most common causes of blocked drains. Grease is liquid when it’s hot but can solidify and form a blockage in your pipes when it cools. Never pour grease, oil, or fat down your kitchen sink to avoid a clog. Instead, scrape the grease from your pots, pans, and plates into a container and dispose of it in the trash.

If you need to dispose of hot grease, allow it cool and then dispose of it. Remember, warm soapy water won’t dissolve grease – even if you pour boiling water down the drain afterward. This is a common mistake most people make.

3. Use Boiling Water To Clear Slow Drains

Slow drains are a common problem in many households. However, you can fix it by using boiling water.

Boiling water helps to break down any build-up of grease, food particles, and other debris that may have been blocking the pipe. To do this, slowly pour boiling water down the drain. Let the boiling water sit for a few minutes, then flush with cold water to rinse away any loosened debris.

If your drain is still slow after the boiling water treatment, you may need to use a plumbing snake to clear the clog. If you’re uncomfortable tackling the problem, hire a professional plumber.

4. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Using chemical drain cleaners to unclog your pipes is very tempting. These products are widely available and relatively easy to use. However, they can be extremely corrosive and may damage your plumbing system in the long run.

In addition, if used incorrectly, these chemicals can cause harmful fumes that can put your health at risk. Rather than using chemical drain cleaners, use a plumbing snake.

If you repeat the process regularly, it becomes an effective method of stopping the clogging of drains.

5. Run Cold Water When Using The Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are an invaluable tool in the kitchen but are easily clogged if used improperly. To avoid clogs and keep your drains running smoothly, always run cold water.

The cold water helps flush out any food waste stuck in the disposal or further down the drain line. It’s also important to remember to run cold water for at least 15-20 seconds.

By following this technique, you can help keep your drains clear and free of blockages.

6. Avoid Dumping Hair, Soap Scum, Or Other Gunk Down The Drain

The build-up of hair, soap scum and other gunk in the pipes blocks the drain. They collect in the drain, forming a blockage that will cause the water to back up and overflow. To avoid this, clean your drains regularly and never pour anything down the drain that isn’t meant to go there.

Use a drain screen to prevent hair and debris from entering the drain. A drain screen will trap any debris before it can enter the pipe. These screens are inexpensive and easy to install, making them an essential part of any home’s maintenance routine.

If you already have a blocked drain, you may need to use a plumbing snake or recommended chemical cleaner. Never pour unreliable chemical cleaners down the drain, as they can damage the pipes and cause further problems.

7. Schedule Regular Drain Cleaning

Having your drains cleaned professionally regularly is one of the best ways to prevent a blocked drain. Regular drain cleaning helps keep your plumbing system running smoothly and efficiently, preventing blockages from occurring. You can do this by hiring a professional service provider. Or by doing it yourself with a drain auger.

Professional services are often more effective. They have access to more powerful tools and equipment which can reach deeper into the pipes. So they will easily remove any blockages deep within the pipes.

Professional cleaning services will also inspect the pipes for any signs of damage and make any necessary repairs.

If you decide to do it yourself, it is important to use the correct equipment, such as a plumber’s snake or an auger. Also, you have to follow all safety precautions.

Regularly cleaning your drains will help to ensure your plumbing system runs efficiently and helps to prevent blocked drains from occurring in the future.

Conclusions

When it comes to preventing blocked drains, prevention is key. Simple ways can help you avoid serious problems like clogs and backups. Some ways include using a drain screen, avoiding pouring grease down the drain, using boiling water to clear slow drains, and avoiding using chemical cleaners. Following these tips will help keep your drains clean and running smoothly.

Nonetheless, for professional services, GoodHands is the right company. We have a skilled and professional working team. Get in touch!