The last thing anyone wants in the middle of winter is a home maintenance emergency. Luckily, there are easy ways to protect your plumbing that can stop pesky clogs from putting a damper on your seasonal fun. With this advice, you’ll be able to thwart potential problems any time of year.
Dispose of Grease and Oil Properly
Never put cooking grease or oil down your drain. Although it may seem like you can just rinse them away, these slick substances can wreak havoc on your pipes. Grease and oils solidify as they cool and can easily turn into a clog.
Instead, remove grease and cooking oils by letting them cool and thicken, then either reusing them when appropriate or disposing of them in a sealed container like an empty bottle.
Perform Hot Water Flushes
At least twice a week, turn the water up as hot as it goes and let it run into the sink for 30 seconds to two minutes. This can help dislodge any debris that’s clogging the pipes. Adding a tablespoon of baking soda and cap of white vinegar can further help clean your pipes for free.
Flushing your sink with hot water can be especially helpful in the kitchen after cooking. Just be sure to keep an eye on the drain, and ensure nothing goes down the disposal that doesn’t belong there.
Keep an Eye on the Toilet
If you have children, be careful not to let them drop or flush something down the toilet. Adults should also be cautious about what they flush. In general, if it’s not human waste, toilet paper or toilet cleaner, it shouldn’t be flushed.
Paper towels, feminine hygiene products or even “flushable” wipes can lead to clogs. They often get trapped in the toilet’s drain line, expand in water and require professional removal.
Skip Chemical Drain Cleaners
You may think that the new year is the perfect time to give your pipes a cleanse, but be careful what products you choose. Over-the-counter drain cleaners are effective when you have a slow-draining sink, but they can also weaken your pipes and cause leaks. They’re also harmful to the environment and toxic to people and animals.
For a better solution, contact a local plumber who can not only clean your drains but also perform preventive maintenance that stops clogs and water damage from affecting your home.
If you notice any changes to your plumbing or drain speed, it’s time to contact a licensed plumber. They can perform a formal assessment and spare you the headache of DIY attempts gone wrong.
For expert drain cleaning in Helena, MT, contact our team at Big Sky Plumbing & Heating today!