Homeownership is a lot of work, and there are many things you have to keep track of—big and small. Your drains are among those that may seem minor but can be expensive to repair if you ignore any problems that arise.
Whether they’re in the kitchen or the bathroom, clogged drains aren’t just inconvenient; they can cause severe issues for your plumbing if ignored.
Thankfully, Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric’s licensed technicians are standing by to help you keep your drains clean and functioning their best. Call them today at (303) 993-1550 to leverage affordable, expert assistance in the maintenance of all your home’s systems.
Plus, this handy guide will help you keep your drains in tip-top shape in between cleanings.
Photo: M-Production via shutterstock.com
Clogged Drains Can Mean Bigger Problems
Something that seems as minor as a clogged drain might not seem like an urgent problem for busy homeowners who already have long lists of maintenance tasks. But the fact is that blocked drains, if left unattended, can lead to a crop of other problems, including leaks, unpleasant odors, water contamination, pests, and even health risks resulting from a build-up of bacteria. Severe cases can cause water to flow backward, which in turn can cause structural damage to your home by soaking into the foundation. In short, clogged drains might seem small, but you shouldn’t neglect them.
Keep Your Drains Clean
Of course, you can’t keep everything from going down your drain—that would defeat the purpose of a drain—but you should definitely pay attention to what you pour down your sink and try to avoid certain things. First, try to avoid pouring kitchen grease into your drain. Grease can build up in the pipes and cause other things to stick, creating clogs. After doing the dishes, run some hot water to flush everything away. A quality garbage disposal can grind up most organic matter, but grease is hard to get rid of and lingers in pipes for a long time, causing problems.
Make Use of Drain Strainers
Drain strainers can make a big difference in keeping your pipes clear, especially for kitchen drains that don’t have garbage disposals and bathroom drains. These simple tools collect what would otherwise go down the drain and create a blockage. They can then be removed and emptied into the trash can before being replaced to keep drains clear while allowing water to run through.
Photo: kurhan via shutterstock.com
Don’t Believe The Labels
Many products out there claim to be “flushable,” from cleaning towelettes to baby wipes, but the truth is that these products should never be flushed. These, along with other everyday bathroom products like cotton balls, cotton swabs, and sanitary products, can wreak havoc on pipes and should be placed in the trash can instead.
What If I Get a Clog?
There are products out there that can remove minor clogs from your pipes, but they are filled with caustic chemicals that are bad for the planet and may be dangerous for you and your family. You can try a homemade alternative consisting of baking soda, lemon juice, and boiling water, or look for a commercially available clog solvent that is easier on the planet. If something significant is going on, your best bet is to call a professional to clean out your drains safely and effectively.
Solve Your Problem, Call Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric
Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric’s team of knowledgeable, trained experts are ready to help keep your drains free and clear. Take advantage of Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric’s latest deal: a $79 drain cleaning with the purchase of repair or service. Contact your Denver-area Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric location at (303) 993-1550 to schedule an appointment today!
