As most homeowners in the San Diego area know, clogged drains are an especially prevalent, but extremely annoying plumbing issue that most people will have to manage at some point in their lives. Even though blockages happen often, there are a few ways you can decrease the chances of your home's drains becoming clogged. Here are a few simple tips to help you avoid clogged drains throughout the spring.
Be sure to keep oil and grease from getting down your drains. If you need to dispose of grease or oil after cooking, pour it into a disposable container and throw it in the trash. Grease and oil tend to solidify once they get inside of your pipes and cool. This can build up over time and cause other materials to stick to these substances while they go down your drain, which can cause a major clog.
Use drain strainers if you do not have them installed already. The drains in your kitchen and bathroom have to manage soap, dirt, hair, and other materials that can build up within your pipes and lead to blockages. A strainer will prevent these materials from getting into your drains while still letting water get through.
Keep in mind, if you do not have a garbage disposal, refrain from putting any type of food down your drains. While accidents are bound to occur, there are several items that can wreak havoc on your system. Materials such as skins of fruit and vegetables, coffee grounds, eggshells, and grains are a few of the many things that can harm your garbage disposal, cling to the side of your pipes, and lead to clogs.
Paper towels and other paper materials are far too large for your plumbing system to manage. These materials can cause clogs and buildups, so always throw them in the trash rather than throwing them into the toilet.
Pour hot water down your drain once every week in order to help clear away debris or oils that might be accumulating as you cook and use your sink. This can assist in preventing clogs and keep your drains running clean.