What do plumbers recommend to keep drains clean?
Drains are essential to your home’s plumbing, yet they often only get attention once something goes wrong. Neglecting drain maintenance can lead to slow water flow, foul odors, and costly repairs.
Keeping them clean is important for maintaining water flow and avoiding expensive repairs. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Daytona, FL, we’ve seen our fair share of drain disasters! Here are our favorite tips for drain maintenance. You know what they say about an ounce of prevention!
1. Use Drain Guards
Drain guards are cheap and easy to use. They catch food particles, hair, and other debris, preventing clogs. Pop ’em on your kitchen and bathroom sink drains, and you’re good to go.
2. No FOG: Fats, Oils, and Grease
I know pouring that bacon grease down the sink is tempting, but resist! It might look harmless when it’s hot, but it turns into pipe-clogging gunk when it cools. Just let it cool off and dump it in the trash instead.
3. Flush Drains Regularly with Hot Water
Once a week, treat your kitchen sink drains to a boiling water flush. This treatment helps clear out minor build-up. It’s like a mini spa day for your pipes, helping to keep things flowing smoothly.
4. Use a Natural Drain Cleaner
There’s usually no need for harsh chemical cleaners, which are bad for your pipes (and the environment). Instead, to clean your drains, try this home remedy: baking soda and white vinegar. Just pour in a half cup of baking soda. Then, pour a cup of vinegar into the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes, Rinse with hot water. This natural reaction is a great cleaning agent; it helps break down and remove minor build-up in your pipes.
5. Be Careful What You Flush
I know those wipes say they’re flushable, but between you and me? Sometimes, they don’t break down as much as they should. Stick to the basics – toilet paper and, well, you know. Everything else goes in the trash.
6. Clean Your Drain Stoppers and Strainers
Remember those sink stoppers and strainers. They’re working hard to prevent clogged drains, so give them a good clean once a week. Trust me, your drains will thank you.
7. Avoid Using Chemical Cleaners
It’s almost always best to stay away from chemical drain cleaners. They seem like a quick fix when your drain is acting up, but unfortunately, they’re more trouble than they’re worth.
Here’s the deal: those harsh chemicals might clear your clog, but they also eat away at your pipes. It’s like using a sledgehammer to hang a picture; it might work, but at what cost? Over time, these cleaners can cause leaks or even total pipe failure.
Also, if the clog doesn’t clear, you’ll be left with a sink full of standing water and dangerous chemicals, which is not exactly the result you were hoping for.
So what should you do instead? Go here for some more ideas on clearing a clog, and if none of those work, give us a call. We’ve got the right tools to clear that clog without damaging your pipes.
Remember, gentler is usually better when it comes to plumbing. Your pipes (and wallet) will thank you in the long run!
8. Install a Water Softener if Needed
Hard water does more than make your coffee taste funky; it can build up in your pipes, causing restricted water flow as well as possible damage. If you’re seeing chalky residue around, consider getting a water softener. This device removes minerals from your water, preventing build-up in your pipes and appliances. Your pipes (and your coffee) will be much happier.
9. Maintain Your Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are convenient, but they need proper care. Don’t put fibrous or starchy foods down there, okay? And always run cold water when you use it—it’s like giving your disposal a drink to wash down its meal.
10. Schedule Regular Professional Drain Cleaning
Even with all these tips, getting your drains professionally cleaned once a year is a good idea. Think of it like an annual check-up, but for your pipes.
11. Keep Outdoor Drains Clear
Remember your outdoor drains! They can get blocked with dirt and leaves, especially after a big storm. Keep an eye on them, and install covers to keep the gunk out.
12. Consider Pipe Maintenance Products
Enzyme-based pipe maintenance products are an excellent monthly addition to your routine. They’re like probiotics for your pipes, naturally breaking down all the gunk.
13. Get the Household On Board
Keeping your drains clean is a team effort. Get everyone in your household on board with these tips. It’ll make your life a whole lot easier in the long run.
14. Know When It’s Time to Call a Plumber
Finally, remember that even with the best maintenance, you may encounter larger issues. If you’re dealing with persistent clogs or unpleasant odors, it’s time to seek expert help. Don’t wait until it becomes a major (and costly) problem.
Maintaining clean drains is not a complex task. It’s about being proactive and following these simple tips. With a little effort, you can keep your plumbing in top shape.
If you ever find yourself in a pickle or just want some expert advice, remember that we’re here for you at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Daytona, FL. Whether it’s a regular check-up or a middle-of-the-night plumbing emergency, we’re your punctual plumber. If there’s any delay, it’s YOU we pay!