Clogged drains are one of the most common problems in households. They can be caused by a number of things, such as hair, grease, soap scum, and food waste. If left unaddressed, clogged drains can lead to bigger problems, such as flooding and water damage.
The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to prevent your drains from becoming clogged. For instance, you can install drain screens to catch hair and other debris. You can also be careful about what you put down your drains, and avoid pouring grease and oil down the drain.
In the event that your drain does become clogged, there are a number of ways to fix it. You can try using a plunger or a plumbers’ snake. If those methods don’t work, you can always call a professional to help you fix the problem.
What Causes Drains to Become Clogged?
Clogged drains are caused by a variety of things, including hair, grease, soap scum, and food waste. Hair, in particular, is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to clogs, as it can easily collect in the pipes and cause a blockage.
Grease can also accumulate in pipes over time, causing a blockage. Soap scum, meanwhile, can form when shampoo or soap is washed down the drain, as it can accumulate on the sides of the pipes. Lastly, food waste can build up in drains, causing bad odors and potentially clogging the drain.
How Can You Avoid Clogging Your Drains? Fortunately, there are a number of steps you can take to avoid clogging your drains. To start, you can install drain screens or traps in your sink and shower drains to catch hair and other debris. Additionally, you should avoid pouring grease and oil down the drain, as it can accumulate and cause a blockage.
Another way to avoid a clog is to be mindful about what you put down the drain; things like food waste, coffee grounds, and even pasta can cause clogs. Finally, you can use a natural cleaner, such as vinegar and baking soda, to help break down any build-up in your pipes.
Maintaining Your Drains Regular maintenance of your drains is also important for preventing clogs. For instance, you should periodically check the pipes for any build-up and use a drain cleaner to help keep things flowing freely. Additionally, you should check the drain screens regularly and remove any debris that accumulates there. Regularly running hot water down the drain is also a good idea, as it helps reduce any grease or soap scum build-up.
Signs That It’s Time to Call a Professional Sometimes, no matter how diligent you are about maintaining your drains, clogs can still occur. If this happens, it may be time to call a professional to help you with the problem.
Signs that a professional is needed include a foul odor coming from the drain, multiple drains backing up, and slow draining water. If any of these signs occur, it’s best to contact a plumber to help get the issue fixed.
Conclusion
Clogged drains are a common issue in households, but with a little prevention and maintenance, you can avoid them. Installing drain screens, avoiding pouring greases and oils down your drains, and maintaining your pipes are essential for keeping your drains flowing freely.
Should you experience any issues with clogs in your area in Salem? you should contact a professional plumber in Salem for assistance at this number : (503)-837-8470 . With these helpful tips, you’ll be able to keep your drains flowing nicely for years to come.