Preparation is important when it comes to anything in life, but especially when it comes to maintaining your home – preparation is an absolute necessity. Clogged drains are really no different.
Clogged drains represent a significant issue for many and can have significant effects on a home’s plumbing system. Being both disciplined and prepared in the event of a clogged drain can save you from a whole host of problems, but also save you a lot of money.
Here are some ways you can stay on top of your every day behaviors and appliances to ensure you don’t encounter a clogged drain. Let’s jump right in!
The toilet
You should be strict about what does and doesn’t go down the toilet. Toilet paper and waste should be the only things going into a drain. Q-Tips, feminine hygiene products, cigarettes. Floss, towels – wipes – that should all go in a waste paper bin. Not down your toilet.
Garbage disposals
You’d be surprised at how often people confuse their garbage with their garbage disposal. A disposal is NOT where all your old food goes. In fact – if you want to find the fastest way possible to clog your drains – that’s what you can do. Truth is – you should avoid throwing food down your drain whenever possible. Especially the kinds of foods that expand and/or are greasy – like pasta, rice and the like. Also stay away from peels and other fibrous materials. All of those are public enemy number 1 when it comes to significant drain clogs.
Inspections
You should always have your drains inspected and cleaned – especially your main lines leading out to the sewer. Particularly in older homes where there are clay pipes – it’s doubly important. Clay pipes were popular in the housing booms of the 20’s and are popular in a lot of homes in the Eastern United States. Trees and root systems tend to find their way into those drain systems – which end up causing clogs over time. Be sure to stay out ahead of it by having your plumber do an annual check up. That way – you can stay out ahead of problems before they occur.
Staying ahead of clogged drains is important – largely because if there’s a significant backup – that sewage can leak into your home. Overwhelmed septic systems, burst pipes and a whole other myriad of issues could also occur.
Follow these tips, stay on the up and up with regards to your system – and get to problems before they occur. Good luck!