Clogged drains aren’t only one of the most common plumbing problems, they’re also one of the most annoying. Whether it’s a slow-draining kitchen sink, water backing up into your shower, or a completely clogged bathroom sink, clogs are inconvenient and have the potential to do serious damage to your home. Take a look at some creative ways to cut these problems off at the pass and prevent clogs before they turn into something more problematic.
Try DIY Enzyme Cleaners for Monthly Maintenance
It sounds counterintuitive, but you’re actually better served by avoiding the chemical drain cleaners that you can get at your local big-box retailer. While these cleaners can dissolve a clog, they can also damage your pipes, leading to the degradation of your plumbing system.
Instead, you can make your own enzyme cleaner by mixing baking soda, white vinegar, and hot water. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup white vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for a few minutes, plug the drain, and let it sit for an hour. Then flush it with very hot water. While this may not get rid of serious clogs, it can reduce buildup while keeping your drains smelling fresh. Once a month, do this for every drain in your home.
Be Smart With Your Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal is one of the most useful tools in your kitchen. However, its versatility doesn’t mean that you can put every piece of food debris into it. Instead, you need to use your garbage disposal wisely.
Avoid putting grease, pasta, coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous vegetables into your garbage disposal. To improve its performance, run cold water before, during, and after you use it. Your disposal is a powerful tool in your fight against drain clogs, but you need to use it the right way.
Make Smart Soap and Shampoo Selections
It might sound strange, but even your soap and shampoo can contribute to drain clogs. Since you use those products to clean yourself, you’ve probably never thought about what some types can do to your drains. Traditional bars of soap often contain animal fats that combine with minerals in the water to form soap scum, which adheres to the inside of your drains.
Additionally, thick shampoos, conditioners, and body washes can leave residue behind. Not only can the residue form clogs in your drains, but it can also trap hair, resulting in heavier clogs that can damage your pipes. Look for residue-resistant shampoos and soaps when you’re shopping for personal care items.
If left unchecked, drain clogs have the potential to place undue stress on your pipes and sewer line, creating plumbing emergencies. Fortunately, you can take the steps above to help prevent a serious clog. It’s an even better idea to call Royal Services Plumbing to schedule professional drain cleaning for your Brighton, CO home.