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Tips for Keeping Sinks and Tubs Flowing Without Clogs

June 20, 2023

A clogged sink or bathtub drain can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem to deal with. However, with a few simple preventive measures and maintenance practices, you can keep your sinks and tubs flowing smoothly and minimize the risk of clogs. In this blog post, we will share valuable tips to help you maintain clear drains and avoid common plumbing issues.

Use Drain Screens

One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent clogs is by using drain screens or stoppers. These inexpensive devices catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they can enter the drain and cause a blockage. Regularly clean the drain screens by removing any collected debris to ensure they remain effective in preventing clogs.

Avoid Pouring Grease or Oil Down the Drain

Grease and oil are common culprits of drain clogs. Instead of pouring them down the drain, collect and dispose of them in a designated container. When hot grease or oil cools down, it solidifies and can stick to the inside of pipes, leading to blockages over time.

Dispose of Food Scraps Properly

When using the kitchen sink, avoid putting large food scraps or fibrous materials down the drain. Use a garbage disposal or compost bin for disposing of food waste. Scrape plates into the trash or compost before rinsing dishes to minimize the amount of food debris that enters the drain.

Flush with Hot Water

Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help dissolve and wash away accumulated grease, soap scum, and other substances that may be clinging to the pipes. Pouring a kettle of hot water down the drain once a week can help keep your drains clear and flowing smoothly.

Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

A natural and effective way to maintain clean drains is by using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring a half cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a half cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then flush with hot water. This combination helps break down grease, eliminate odours, and remove minor buildup.

Regular Maintenance

Periodically performing drain maintenance can help prevent clogs and keep your sinks and tubs flowing freely. For example, you can use a plumbing snake or drain auger to remove any accumulated debris or hair from the pipes. Alternatively, consider scheduling professional drain cleaning services to thoroughly clean and clear your drains.

Teach Proper Habits

Educate everyone in your household about proper drain usage. Teach them to avoid flushing inappropriate items down the toilet or putting non-water-soluble materials in the sink. By promoting good habits, you can prevent unnecessary clogs and maintain the integrity of your plumbing system.

By implementing these preventive measures and practicing regular maintenance, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of clogged sinks and tubs. Remember to use drain screens, avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, dispose of food scraps properly, flush with hot water, utilize natural cleaning solutions, perform regular maintenance, and educate your household members. Taking these steps will help you keep your drains flowing smoothly, save you from the hassle of dealing with clogs, and maintain the overall health of your plumbing system.