We’ve written posts before about the best ways to unclog drains. This is one of the most common types of plumbing problems that affect homes, and people want quick solutions.
But there’s an even better way to handle clogged drains in a home, and that’s to prevent them from starting in the first place! Prevention is the best tool of all when it comes to your plumbing.
There is no way that you can prevent all clogged drains. Some debris will manage to slip down the drains, and sometimes large objects may accidentally fall down into drain pipes (or intentionally, as is often the case with young children wondering what they can flush down a toilet). But, if you follow our tips below, you can significantly reduce the chance you’ll have to deal with an annoying clogged drain in Des Plaines, IL in the future.
Place drain strainers in bathroom and kitchen drains
An uncovered drain opening is an invitation for all types of unwanted objects to slip down a drain. Basic drain covers are a help, and these can often trap hair from entering bathroom sink and shower drains—one of the biggest sources of clogs in these drains. You can also purchase even more effective drain strainers that you can place down into the drains that will catch smaller particles. These strainers will need regular cleaning or else they’ll block water flow, but they are simple to clean.
Be cautious about what items go down your kitchen sink drain
During food preparation and cleaning, it’s all too easy to allow food particles to slip down the kitchen sink drain. Make sure good waste goes into the disposal, not down the sink, and place any tough food waste (such as bones and fruit pits) into the actual garbage. Most importantly, don’t pour liquid grease, fats, and oils down the kitchen drains, as these will solidify into waxy solids that make it extremely easy for clogs to develop in the future. Pour these liquids into a separate receptacle.
Only allow toilet paper and human waste to go down the toilets
Please do not use toilets like garbage cans. Even flushing down kleenex and paper towels can create serious problems, as these absorb water and expand. Never flush down disposable wipes, even if the package claims they are disposable. No such thing! These wipes clump together and create major blockages in drainpipes.
Install a water softener
If your home has hard water, limescale will begin to form along the inside of pipes and drains. This calcite buildup can make it much easier for clogs to start. A water softener will help alleviate this problem, and it will improve the overall health of your plumbing as well.
Schedule preventive professional drain cleaning
This is the best tool for keeping away drain clogs. When you arrange for drain cleaning once a year with our experts, you’ll have your drains scoured clean to like-new condition. This makes it hard for debris and buildup to attach to the pipe walls and cause clogs.
For expert plumbing service, installations, or maintenance, contact Reliance Plumbing Sewer & Drainage, Inc. Our knowledgeable plumbers serve the North Shore and Northwest Chicago suburbs. Rely on Reliance!