You can protect your home’s plumbing by improving your family’s daily kitchen and toiletry habits. Flushing down inappropriate objects can quickly lead to substantial blockages and pipe strain. Fortunately, you can always rely on a professional plumber when struggling with unpleasant sewage odors or slow-draining sinks and tubs. Here are a few smart tips to keep your plumbing lines clear.
Invest in Drain Guards
Different types of drain guards can protect the vital fixtures in your bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room. Depending on your needs, you may want mesh sink strainers or hair catchers. These convenient devices prevent hair and debris from slipping into your drains. They’re also handy to prevent plumbing accidents, like losing valuable jewelry down your sinks.
Limit Garbage Disposal Use
Garbage disposals make it easy to get rid of food waste without having to regularly empty your sink. However, overusing your disposal could result in damage to the appliance or your plumbing. You should never put bones, eggshells, coffee grounds, or wrappers in your disposal. Pasta and rice can also prove dangerous, as these foods can expand and clog your drains.
Only Flush Toilet Paper
Residential toilets are made to only accept human waste and limited amounts of toilet paper. You should never use your toilet to get rid of garbage, wipes, medications, or cotton balls. Absorbent materials such as facial tissues, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels are particularly harmful to your plumbing. These materials can’t easily break down like standard toilet paper and will quickly grow into a blockage.
Regularly Rinse the Kitchen Drain
Unfortunately, your dirty plates and pans may still carry lingering grease even after you’ve emptied them. To prevent this sticky substance from building up, be sure to routinely rinse your sink with hot water and dish soap. Flushing your kitchen drain breaks up any remaining oil and grease before it can catch other debris. This is a great way to protect your plumbing and limit unpleasant odors.
Schedule Yearly Expert Care
In addition to improving your household’s habits, you should also annually call in a professional. Regular drain cleanings and inspections can catch clogs early before they cause backflow and increased pests. For stubborn blockages, you may require hydro jetting to break up the debris lodged in your lines. This process involves blasting a pressurized stream of water into your plumbing. Trusting a licensed and experienced contractor guarantees exceptional results that last.
Taking care of your home’s drainage system will boost your day-to-day comfort and lower your risk of a plumbing emergency. Call Drain Surgeon today to schedule your drain cleaning in Augusta, GA.
