There are several things you can do to take care of your household drains and prevent clogs:
- Be mindful of what you put down the drain. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, as they can harden and clog the pipes. Additionally, avoid putting large food scraps or fibrous materials, such as celery or carrot peels, down the garbage disposal, as they can cause problems.
- Use a strainer in your sinks and shower to catch hair and other debris before they have a chance to go down the drain.
- Run hot water down the drain for a few seconds after using it, especially if you have used grease or oil. This can help to flush out any material that may have accumulated in the pipes.
- Use a plunger to remove blockages in your drains. Place the plunger over the drain and press down firmly, then pull up quickly. Repeat this several times to loosen the blockage.
- Use a drain snake to remove blockages that a plunger can’t clear. You can purchase a drain snake at most hardware stores, or you can rent one.
- If you notice a bad smell or slow-moving drains, it’s a sign of a problem. Consider having a professional plumber inspect your pipes to find and fix any issues.
- Periodically, use a commercial drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water to clean the pipes. This can help to remove any buildup that may have accumulated in the pipes over time.
It is important to note that if the problem is recurrent or severe, it’s best to call a professional plumber as they will have the right tools and knowledge to solve it safely.