Calgary Plumbers and Top Tips for Preventing Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a common household nuisance that can lead to unpleasant odours, slow drainage, and even more severe plumbing issues. Fortunately, preventing clogged drains is relatively easy with a few simple maintenance practices and habits.
Adopt some top imperative tips for drain cleaning in Calgary that will keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
1. Use Drain Screens
One of the most effective ways to prevent clogged drains is by using drain screens or stoppers. These inexpensive devices fit over the drain openings in sinks, showers, and bathtubs, catching hair, soap residue, and other debris before they can enter the pipes. Regularly clean the drain screens to remove collected debris and ensure optimal water flow.
2. Avoid Pouring Grease and Oil Down the Drain
Pouring grease, oil, or fats down the drain is a recipe for clogs. As these substances cool, they solidify and cling to the walls of the pipes, gradually building up and obstructing water flow. Instead of pouring them down the drain, collect used cooking oils and grease in a sealed container and dispose of them in the trash.
3. Dispose of Food Waste Properly
In the kitchen, be mindful of what you’re putting down the sink drain. Avoid letting food scraps, coffee grounds, and other solids go down the drain. Use a sink strainer to catch food particles and empty them into the compost or garbage bin.
4. Flush with Hot Water
To prevent buildup in your pipes, flush them regularly with hot water. Run hot water down the drain after each use to help dissolve and wash away any grease, soap scum, or debris that may be accumulating. For an extra cleaning boost, add a bit of baking soda before flushing with hot water.
5. Be Mindful of What You Flush
Only flush toilet paper down the toilet. Avoid flushing items like facial tissues, wet wipes, dental floss, and sanitary products, as they can quickly lead to toilet clogs and sewer backups.
6. Use a Plunger
Invest in a good-quality plunger and keep it handy for quick fixes. A plunger can help dislodge minor clogs in sinks, toilets, and shower drains. Remember to use a different plunger for the toilet and other drains to prevent cross-contamination.
7. Regularly Clean Bathroom Drains
Bathroom drains are particularly susceptible to clogs due to the accumulation of hair, soap, and shampoo residue. Regularly clean the drain openings by removing the cover and using a small brush to remove hair and debris. You can also pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drain to help break down buildup.
8. Use Enzyme Cleaners
Enzyme-based drain cleaners are a more natural and eco-friendly option for preventing clogs. These cleaners contain bacteria that break down organic materials in your drains, helping to prevent blockages and odours. Use them regularly to maintain clean and flowing drains.
9. Avoid Overloading Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals are handy kitchen appliances, but they have their limits. Avoid overloading them with large quantities of food scraps, fibrous materials (like celery), and hard items (like bones or fruit pits). Feed food scraps gradually and run cold water while the disposal is operating to help flush away debris.
10. Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning
Regular professional drain cleaning can help prevent clogs and maintain the health of your plumbing system. A plumber can use specialized equipment to clear out any accumulated debris and buildup, ensuring that water flows freely through your pipes.
Conclusion
Preventing clogged drains is a combination of simple habits and proactive maintenance. By being mindful of what goes down your drains, using drain screens, avoiding grease and oil disposal, and regularly cleaning and flushing your drains, you can significantly reduce the risk of clogs and maintain a smoothly functioning plumbing system. By adopting these top tips for preventing clogged drains, you’ll not only save yourself the hassle of dealing with clogs but also extend the lifespan of your plumbing system and keep your home’s water flow in optimal condition.
Calgary Plumber and Drains is your number one team of Calgary plumbers! Our success has been built on values such as honesty, hard work, affordable prices and superior customer service. We pride ourselves on offering clients throughout Downtown and surrounding areas with top-quality plumbing services, including leak repairs, installations, sewer and drain cleaning, toilet repairs, and water heater repairs in Calgary. As an emergency plumber in Calgary, we’re available when you’re in dire straits! For the number one plumbing company in Calgary, contact Calgary Plumber and Drains at 403-629-2920.