Your plumbing system is one of the most important parts of your home. Without it, everything from taking a shower, to washing dishes, to washing clothing, simply wouldn’t be possible. And some of the most important parts of this system are the drains.
They allow excess water to be removed, and ensure you can run water successfully without flooding your home. However, these drains require some maintenance to keep in the best shape possible and ensure they can continue doing their job.
With that in mind, this article is going to go over some home drain maintenance tips to ensure yours can always stay in great shape.
Schedule a Professional Cleaning Once in a While
While there is a lot that you can do for your drains, it is still a good idea to call in a plumber every once in a while to do a professional clean. These experts have all the right tools and knowledge to not only clean your pipes, but inspect them and make sure there are no small issues developing. Sure, this comes with a post, but it pales in comparison to the cost required to fix a burst pipe or major plumbing damage caused by not maintaining things properly.
Clean and Flush Your Drains Frequently
In addition to this professional cleaning, it is a good idea to do your own drain cleaning and flushing every now and then. This doesn’t take very long, and can help fight against clogs and buildup in your drains. This can be as simple as flushing your drains with some boiling water, or using a concoction of baking soda and vinegar. It is also possible to make your own drain cleaner.
Have Some Tools On-Hand to Unclog Drains
To help aid in the cleaning of your pipes, there are some tools you can consider investing in. This includes a drain snake, an auger, and even a small plunger. Each can help you keep your drain clean and clear, without having to pay a professional each and every time. Most of these tools are not only easy to find and affordable, but also very simple to use. They can be a real lifesaver, and are certainly worth having just in case you need them.
Know What to not Put Down the Drain
One of the best ways to keep your drains in good shape is to know what you can and cannot put down the drain. There are plenty of things you shouldn’t put down the drain, as they can do a lot of damage to your pipes or plumbing system. This includes grease, flour, paper products, paint, coffee grounds, and more. Many of these will adhere to the pipes and can contribute to major clogs or even pipes bursting.
Invest in a Drain Grate, Catcher or Cover
While you can be as careful as possible, there is still a chance that things will end up the drains that you didn’t expect. As a result, having a last line of defense like a drain catcher or cover is a good idea. These can stop all different types of debris from going into the drain. These are especially good for the tub, where things like hair and soap can often get stuck in the drain if you’re not careful.
In conclusion, we hope that this article has helped you learn more about maintaining the drains in your home.