One of the best ways to keep your drains and plumbing problem-free is by faithfully heeding a series of drain cleaning tips. Knowing what to do and what to avoid can mean the difference between potential disasters and plumbing that functions properly.
Some of the common mistakes made when cleaning the drain include:
- Relying on chemicals. Sometimes we might be tempted by what appears to be a quick, easy fix. Grabbing some of the chemical drain cleaner off the supermarket shelf can sometimes have unwanted consequences down the road. If you're not familiar with the chemicals and how they react, you can end up with problems in your pipes.
- Neglecting the simple solutions. This is one your grandmother probably knows. One of the best ways to prevent future clogs in your sink or drain is by relying on two of the most reliable standbys: baking soda and vinegar. Grab about a cup of baking soda once a month, pour it down the drain and chase it with a cup of vinegar. Let it set for about 30 minutes, then pour warm water down the drain.
- Not owning a drain stick or plumbing snake. Over time, clumps of hair get mixed with soap and other mysterious substances once they make their way down the drain, sometimes creating an obstruction. If you're experiencing a slow drain or minor clog, you can usually clear it away quickly by forcing a drain stick, a stick with small teeth on the end, or snake down the drain to help clear up any blockage.
- Forgoing a strainer. One of the best ways to prevent hair-fueled clogs in the bathroom and food backups that build up in the kitchen sink drain is by using a strainer, a simple device placed in the opening of the drain. It will catch all the bigger pieces of debris and hair that can cause blockages if they otherwise made their way down the drain. A strainer is as inexpensive as a few dollars for a simple model, and a bit more for units with more elaborate versions in various finishes.
- Not flushing out your kitchen sink line. Periodically, fill up your kitchen sink with warm water then let it drain. This will push the water out to the main line and, in most cases, take any debris in the line, with it.
For answers to your questions about drain cleaning tips or if you need additional plumbing assistance, contact the Pink Plumber today.
Image: Free Images
