ERM Plumbing & Heating

March 30, 2023

Clogged drains are a common household problem that can be messy, inconvenient, and expensive to fix. Fortunately, there are several preventative measures you can take to avoid getting a clogged drain in the first place. In this article, we’ll discuss ten easy ways to prevent clogged drains.

1. Use a Drain Cover

One of the best ways to prevent clogged drains is to use a drain cover. These are inexpensive and can be found at any hardware store. They prevent hair, food scraps, and other debris from going down the drain and causing a clog.

2. Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain

Grease is a common culprit of clogged drains. When hot grease cools down, it solidifies and can cause a blockage in your pipes. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, put it in a container and throw it away in the trash.

3. Use a Plunger

If you notice that your drain is slow or starting to clog, try using a plunger to clear it. Plungers work by creating suction, which can dislodge whatever is causing the clog.

4. Use a Drain Snake

If a plunger doesn’t work, the next step is to use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can reach deep into your pipes and pull out any clogs. You can buy one at any hardware store, but be sure to read the instructions carefully before using it.

5. Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners can be tempting because they promise quick and easy solutions to clogged drains. However, they can actually do more harm than good. They can corrode your pipes and cause long-term damage.

6. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

Instead of using chemical drain cleaners, try using baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water. This can help break up any clogs and keep your drains clear.

7. Flush Your Drains Regularly

It’s a good idea to flush your drains with hot water once a week to keep them clear. Simply boil a pot of water and pour it down the drain. This can help dissolve any buildup and prevent clogs from forming.

8. Dispose of Food Scraps Properly

Food scraps can easily clog your drains, so it’s important to dispose of them properly. Use a garbage disposal if you have one, or throw them away in the trash. Avoid putting any large or fibrous food scraps down the drain.

9. Install a Water Softener

Hard water can cause mineral buildup in your pipes, leading to clogs. Installing a water softener can help prevent this buildup and keep your pipes clear.

10. Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all of the above tips and your drain is still clogged, it’s time to call a professional. A plumber can help diagnose the problem and fix it properly, saving you time and money in the long run.

Conclusion

Clogged drains can be a nuisance, but they’re easily preventable with a few simple steps. By using a drain cover, avoiding pouring grease down the drain, using a plunger or drain snake when needed, avoiding chemical drain cleaners, using baking soda and vinegar, flushing your drains regularly, disposing of food scraps properly, installing a water softener, and calling a professional when necessary, you can keep your drains clear and avoid costly repairs.

If you need plumbing repair services in Calgary, don’t hesitate to call ERM Plumbing & Heating. Our company was established in 2010 with a simple vision to help people with plumbing and heating problems. Contact us now and get your pipes fixed right away.

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