You may not know you have a clogged drain until it’s too late. The telltale signs of dirty water backing up in your sink can mean a slower moving kitchen or bathroom; few families have time for that. To avoid this frustrating and costly scenario, take some essential precautions and care for your drains.
Avoid Putting Grease Down Drains
Grease can build up in a drain and keep water from flowing properly, much like your arteries can be blocked by plaque. To avoid “diseased” drains, minimize the amount of grease that makes it into your pipes. Allow fats to harden before wiping clean and disposing in the trash. Alternately, pour hot grease into a tin can and discard when cool.
But what if you’ve already poured grease down the sink? You’re not out of luck. Add a small amount of concentrated dish soap into the drain, followed by a potful of boiling water. The soap and hot water will effectively break up grease buildup, allowing water to flow freely.
Control Soap and Scum Buildup
Nothing puts a damper on a relaxing shower like a puddle of scummy water building around your feet. Regularly check your drains for debris to allow your water to flow smoothly. A typical shower can leave residue from soaps, shampoos, and shaving cream. To save water, run some hot water and wipe up excess residue with a cloth or sponge after every shower.
Use Cold Water in Garbage Disposals
It may seem counterintuitive, but cold water promotes cleaner drains in garbage disposals. Colder temps encourage oily foods to remain solid, allowing the disposal to effectively grind them up. For best garbage disposal maintenance, scrape foods off in the trash instead of the sink, especially fatty meats. It’s not only best for your plumbing – it’s better for the environment.
When Clogs Attack
In spite of your best intentions, we all find ourselves with an occasional clog. Homemade remedies can be effective in breaking up debris, without the dangerous chemicals found in many commercial versions. Try this recipe made from ingredients you likely already have in your home:
Homemade Declogging Solution
¼ cup baking soda
½ cup vinegar
First pour baking soda down the drain, and then follow with vinegar.
To Combat Smell
Squeeze a lemon or two over the drain and let the juice set for at least an hour before running cold water.
When combined, these ingredients produce a bubbling reaction that will break up most clogs (think back to that volcano experiment you did at your school science fair). If homemade solutions don’t make the cut, try Eco Plumber’s Mother Nature Septic Product. This product is strong enough to fight tough clogs yet gentle on the environment.
Use these products as a preventive measure; simply pour some down your drain as soon as you notice drainage slowing. For bigger problems, The Eco Plumbers can help. Our drain maintenance and treatment services will keep your plumbing running smoothly. From drain snaking to our line of eco-friendly products, our aim is to provide effective service while protecting the planet. For more information on your plumbing needs, contact the Eco Plumbers today.
