A clogged drain can turn into a major issue. In 2016, people spent over $80 million on the leading drain cleaner. But drain cleaner doesn't always get the job done. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent a clogged drain. Find out what you can do to keep your pipes free and clear of debris.
1. Catch the Hair Before it Goes Down the Drain
When hair collects in your drain, it can cause a serious clog. You might need to hire a plumber with a long snake to remove the clog. But this is an easy issue to prevent.
Install a mesh drain screen on all of your drains. Instead of heading down the drain, your hair will get caught in the mesh. Typically, they are very easy to install and come at a minimal cost.
2. Use a Lint Catcher on Your Washing Machine
When most people think of clogged pipes, they think or kitchens and bathrooms. However, your washing machine drain can also get backed up. Socks, fabric, and pieces of forgotten tissues can get through the drain hose in your washer. Then, you could develop a clog.
You can prevent this common problem by installing a lint trap on your drain hose. Most hardware stores sell a trap, but you can also make your own with a nylon stocking.
3. Use Bacteria in Your Drain
Although many people think of bacteria as a bad thing, it can be very useful. If you place the right bacteria in your drains, it can break down organic matter. This can prevent old food from clogging up your drains.
You can find this bacteria in either liquid or granular form. Because it's not corrosive, it won't ruin your pipes.
4. Watch What You Put Down Your Drains
You should be very cautious about what you place down your drains. For instance, grease is one of the worst substances you can pour into the sink. As warm grease heads down into your pipes, it cools off and becomes thicker. Eventually, it collects other debris and forms a clog.
Another potentially dangerous substance for your drain is cement. Cement, grout, and other similar joint compounds can wreak havoc on your plumbing. It can harden in the water and prevent your pipes from draining water. Sand can have a similar effect. Although it doesn't harden, sand can gather and form a large clog.
This type of issue is simple to prevent. Avoid pouring grease, sand, and joint compound down your drains. Instead, dispose of it in a different way. Place grease in a jar and clean off masonry tools outside.
5. Address Clogged Sewer Lines
If you have clogged sewer lines every year, you need to address the problem. While getting your line cleaned might fix the immediate issue, it doesn't address the real concern. You may have a problem with your line.
Tree roots could be pushing through the pipe joints or a pipe could be partly collapsed. In either case, the problem needs to be fixed. By hiring a plumber and having them examine your sewer lines, you can learn about the real issue and have it fixed.
It's not always possible to avoid clogged pipes. If you are having a problem with your plumbing, you should contact Leading Edge Plumbing & Rooter. The sooner you call a problem, the sooner you can resolve the issue.
