Nobody likes dealing with a blocked drain. The smell, the mess, the inconvenience – it’s something we all dread. But with a little bit of care and attention, you can prevent blocked drains from happening in the first place. And when all else fails, there’s always the option of calling in the experts for help.
Here are some expert tips for preventing blocked drains and knowing when it’s time to call for professional assistance.
First and foremost, one of the most important things you can do to prevent blocked drains is to be mindful of what you’re putting down the drain. Oils, fats, and grease are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to clogging up drains. Instead of pouring these down the sink, try to wipe them up with a paper towel and dispose of them in the trash. The same goes for food scraps – try to avoid putting them down the drain whenever possible.
In addition to being careful with what you put down the drain, it’s also important to keep your drains clean. Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help break up any buildup that may be lurking in your pipes. You can also try using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to help keep your drains clear – simply pour the mixture down the drain, let it sit for a few hours, then flush it out with hot water.
Another important tip for preventing blocked drains is to use a drain guard or strainer. These inexpensive devices can help prevent hair, food scraps, and other debris from going down the drain and causing a blockage. Simply place the guard or strainer over the drain opening and empty it out regularly to keep your drains clear.
If you do find yourself with a blocked drain despite your best efforts, there are a few things you can try before calling in the experts. One common DIY solution is to use a plunger to try and dislodge the blockage. Simply place the plunger over the drain opening and give it a few good plunges to see if you can clear the blockage.
Another DIY option is to use a plumbing snake or auger to try and break up the blockage. Simply insert the snake or auger into the drain and twist it around until you feel the blockage start to break up. Once you’ve cleared the blockage, flush the drain with hot water to help wash away any remaining debris.
If you’ve tried everything and your drain is still blocked, it’s time to call in the experts. Professional plumbers have the tools and expertise to quickly and efficiently clear even the toughest blockages. They can also help identify any underlying issues that may be causing the blockage in the first place, such as tree roots or collapsed pipes.
In addition to clearing blocked drains, professional plumbers can also help prevent future blockages by performing regular maintenance on your plumbing system. They can conduct inspections to check for any potential issues, clean out your drains and pipes, and offer advice on how to keep your drains clear in the future.
Ultimately, taking care of your drains is an important part of maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system. By being mindful of what you put down the drain, keeping your drains clean, and knowing when to call for professional help, you can keep your drains clear and avoid the headache of dealing with a blocked drain. So remember, a little bit of prevention can go a long way when it comes to keeping your drains flowing smoothly.
