Let's face it: Clogged drains are quite unpleasant. Are you
wondering how to prevent clogged drains in your Atlanta home? We created this
quick and easy guide that tells you how to do so in your kitchen and bathroom
as well as throughout your home.
If you are encountering clogged drains now or want to
learn more about how to prevent them, read this guide in more detail now.
Preventing Clogged Kitchen Sink Drains
The kitchen sink is especially prone to clogs, largely due
to the buildup of food particles, grease, and oil. Here's how you can keep it
clear:
● Use a Sink Strainer: A strainer is your first line of
defense. It catches food scraps and prevents them from going down the drain.
Make sure to empty the strainer regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
● Never Pour Grease Down the Drain: Grease may go down as a liquid, but
it solidifies as it cools, sticking to the insides of pipes and creating
blockages. Instead, let grease cool in a container and dispose of it in the
trash.
● Run Hot Water After Use: After washing dishes, run hot water
for a few seconds. This helps to dissolve and flush out any lingering grease or
food debris.
● Baking Soda and Vinegar Flush: Once a week, pour one cup of baking
soda followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain. The mixture will fizz,
helping to break down any buildup. Finish with hot water to flush it out.
● Avoid Coffee Grounds and Eggshells: These items should never go down the
drain, as they can create stubborn blockages. Dispose of them in the trash or
compost.
Preventing Clogged Bathroom Sink Drains
Bathroom sinks are vulnerable to clogs from hair, soap scum,
and toothpaste buildup. To prevent this:
● Install a Drain Cover: A simple drain cover can catch hair
and larger particles before they enter the pipes. Clean it out regularly to
keep it practical.
● Rinse the Sink After Use: After brushing your teeth or washing
your face, run the tap for a few extra seconds to wash away any residue and
prevent buildup.
● Be Mindful of Beauty Products: Avoid rinsing heavy beauty products,
like thick lotions or oils, down the sink, as they contribute to clogs over
time.
● Boiling Water Maintenance: Once a month, pour a kettle of
boiling water down the bathroom sink drain to dissolve soap scum and help
prevent clogs.
Preventing Clogged Shower and Bathtub Drains
Showers and bathtubs are notorious for clogs caused by hair,
soap, shampoo, and bath oils. Here's how to avoid the problem:
● Use a Hair Catcher: Hair is one of the main culprits of
shower and tub clogs. Installing a hair catcher over the drain can trap hair
before it becomes an issue. Make it a habit to clear the hair catcher
regularly.
● Rinse with Hot Water: After every shower or bath, run hot
water for a minute to help clear away soap residue and oils that could
otherwise build up and form clogs.
● Watch Oil-Based Products: Be cautious when using heavy oils,
conditioners, and scrubs. These products can stick to the sides of your pipes
and cause blockages.
● Regular Hair Removal: At a regular interval, take the time
to clean any hair caught in the drain or hair catcher. This prevents buildup
and keeps the water flowing freely.
General
Drain Maintenance
Regular maintenance is critical to keeping all your household drains running smoothly. Here are a few simple practices that can help:
● Monthly Baking Soda & Vinegar Flush: This natural solution works wonders
on all drains. Pour baking soda followed by vinegar down the drain,
let it sit for 10 minutes, and then flush with hot water.
● Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaners: These cleaners use natural enzymes
to break down organic material and are a great alternative to harsh chemicals.
They can help keep your pipes clear without causing damage.
● Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: While they may offer a quick fix,
chemical cleaners can erode your pipes over time. Use them sparingly and only
when necessary.
If you have clogged drains, schedule a drain cleaning service
with our professional Atlanta plumbing team today. We offer top-quality
services performed by expert plumbers you can trust.
Check out our great Special Offers & Coupons and Maintenance Membership Program to keep up with your plumbing needs
all-year long. It's that Easy; It's Estes!
