You only need to deal with slow drains once before you never want to deal with them again. Once you notice the drain slowing down, you know that you have a problem with the pipe. These problems can range from tree roots to clogs. As the repairs are often quite expensive, you’ll find it helpful to learn how you can avoid common drain repairs.
1. Stay Away From Chemical Cleaners
Many people think chemical drain cleaners are safe to use because they’re available in so many stores. Those cleaners can eat through organic or inorganic clogs, but they can also eat through the drain pipe. If you’re lucky, you might use the same cleaner for years before a leak forms. Not everyone is as lucky though. They use chemicals that corrode the pipe, causing it to break open and leading to an increase in their repair bills. It’s better to call a plumber and stay away from those cleaners.
2. Treat Your Garbage Disposal Well
A garbage disposal is a great addition to most kitchens, but it can’t handle anything and everything you think it can. Grease can cause major damage as can other forms of fat. While it looks like a liquid when it goes down the drain, it hardens when it cools and forms a large clog. That clog will only worsen as you pour out more oils and fats. Coffee grounds and eggshells are equally dangerous.
3. Invest in a Strainer
You can’t always watch your family 24/7, which is why adding a strainer is helpful. The strainer fits on top of the drain and collects materials and substances that might damage the drain, like large chunks of food and stray hairs. Some strainers even have a scent that can cut down on foul odors. The strainer allows the water from the faucet to go down the drain but stops bigger particles. They work on both bathroom and kitchen drains.
4. Watch for Roots
Tree roots are a big problem when they reach your sewer line and other pipes. The roots grow as the tree seeks water and can get through small cracks in your pipes. Once inside, the roots keep growing and pushing their way through the pipe. The clogs they cause require a special tool to remove because it breaks up the roots. Tree roots can even grow through the drains, keeping them from working. Keep an eye out for trees that grow near your home and look for the signs of roots in your pipes.
Don’t wait until your drain is clogged before you call a plumber. Learn how to maintain your drains through simple tips, like skipping harsh cleaners and using strainers. If you live in Waldorf, MD, reach out to A Better Plumber for professional drain cleaning services.
