Encyclopedia

of Home Improvements

*Cleaning Drains*

How to prevent your drains from clogging

Lets face it - A clogged is a real drag. Once the drain is clear, keeping your drains clear is probably easier than you think. With a few simple precautions, you can prevent your drains from clogging.

Keep the Kitchen drain clear

Pour grease into cans and throw them in the garbage. If you empty grease into the sink, the grease collects along the sides of the pipe and then food particles stick to the pipes, eventually contributing to a clog. Also too much grease can eventually cause sewer blockages since the bacteria in sewage systems cannot readily break down grease.

When you are grinding up food in a disposal, run plenty of cold water to flush food particles down the pipe. Using too little water can contribute to the particles collecting along the sides of the pipe.

Don't empty coffee grounds in the sink.

Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain once a week to melt away any fat or grease that may have collected.

Keep the Bathroom drain clear

Clean the pop-up stoppers in sinks frequently. Hair often collects here and causes clogs.

Never flush heavy paper products down the drain. Excess paper can clog the toilet and/or the whole sewer system.

All Drains

Never dump chemicals like paint or paint thinner down the drain. Avoid pouring hot wax or other substances in the drains.

If you have your own home septic tank, have a professional inspect it every two to three years. Some regions require septic tank inspection on a regular basis. Check with your local health board about the rules in your community.

Every six months, keep your drains running clear by using a non-caustic drain cleaner.

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