Who wants to stand in dirty, ankle-deep water while they’re taking a shower? Not us! But drain clogs are insidious pests, building up slowly over time until one day you’re staring at a pool of dirty water that refuses to move past the drain blockage. While Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is in the drain cleaning business for homes in the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas, we’d rather see our customers prevent drain clogs before they become big problems. Check out these 10 tips we’ve compiled to prevent drain clogs before they start.
Use Drain Screens/Catchers
Get a head start on the drain cleaning process by keeping the offending gunk away from the drains in the first place. Invest in mesh screens or hair catchers over all your drains, including sinks, showers and tubs. These inexpensive tools are incredibly effective at trapping hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter your pipes.
Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain
Did you cook bacon or other greasy food last night? It may be tempting to toss the leftover grease down the kitchen sink drain, but this is a habit you want to break right now. Never pour cooking oils, fats, or grease down any drain. As they cool, they solidify and cling to pipe walls, building up over time and creating major blockages. Dispose of grease in the trash once it cools. Cut down on the mess by lining a coffee cup with aluminum foil and letting the drippings cool. Once they’re solid, remove the foil and toss it.
Be Mindful of Food Scraps in the Kitchen Sink
Even with a garbage disposal, avoid sending large or fibrous food scraps like coffee grounds, eggshells, fruit peels, pasta, rice, and fibrous vegetables down the drain. Scrape plates into the trash before rinsing. (Parent pro tip: Teach the kids this important step while they’re little, so you don’t have to come home to dry food on dirty plates in the kitchen sink!)
Run Hot Water Regularly
This simple tip can make a big impact on potential drain clogs. After using your sinks, especially the kitchen sink, run hot water for a minute or two. This can help to melt small grease deposits and flush away soap scum before they accumulate.
Periodically Flush Drains with Baking Soda and Vinegar
This natural remedy can help break down minor buildup. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then flush with hot water. Doing this monthly or bi-monthly can help your drain stay clean and cut down on unpleasant odors.
Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like a Trash Can
As plumbers, we find a lot of trash in a clogged sewer line. Remember, only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Wipes – including the “flushable” ones), feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, dental floss, and paper towels do not break down in water and are major causes of toilet clogs.
Limit Hair in Shower Drains
Those luscious locks can lose their luster when they accumulate in your drain. A quick brush before you step into the shower can remove loose strands and cut down on the ones that fall out during the shampoo and rinse. After showering, remove any hair from the drain stopper or screen.
Be Cautious with Chemical Drain Cleaners
While they seem like a quick fix, harsh chemical drain cleaners can corrode pipes over time and can be dangerous if not used properly. Remember, it’s better to prevent clogs than to constantly rely on these. If you must use one, follow instructions carefully and sparingly.
Consider a Proactive Professional Drain Cleaning
For older homes or homes with a history of drain issues, a professional drain cleaning from Northern Benjamin Franklin every few years can help clear out hidden buildup and prevent major problems.
Educate Everyone in the Household
Make sure everyone living in your home understands these practices. Consistency is key to preventing clogs effectively. A little intentional behavior can save you the headache – and the cost – of future clogs.
Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is your plumbing partner for your Twin Cities home. Our plumbers are ready to handle whatever’s running wild in your plumbing system, whether it’s a clogged drain, a leaky shower, or even sewer line repair. Reach out to Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing now at 320-559-3407 to find out more about our plumbing services. Keep your drains clear with Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing.