Nothing spoils a gathering like having to deal with an emergency right in the middle of your festivities, and a clogged sink or toilet can definitely put a damper on your holiday. Making sure your drains don’t clog up while you’re hosting can all come down to maintenance.
1. Don’t Pour Grease Down the Sink
Instead, pour the grease into an old container, let it cool and then throw it in the trash. Some might even like to save the grease in a heat-resistant cup to use for other recipes, like gravy.
2. Throw Coffee Grinds Away
Coffee grinds can build up in your drains and catch other larger objects, preventing them from going down and clogging up the pipes. Even if you have a garbage disposal, coffee grinds should be thrown away instead.
3. Run Baking Soda and Vinegar Down the Drains on Occasion
Try putting a little baking soda and vinegar down the sink, letting it bubble and then sit for 15 minutes. After that, rinse the mixture down thoroughly with hot water. This old trick helps loosen debris that may be stuck in the pipes without using harsh chemicals or having to call in a professional for drain cleaning.
4. Watch What You Flush
Don’t flush anything down the toilet that was not intended to be flushed, and never overfill the bowl with toilet paper. Flush frequently, if necessary. If you do find yourself with a clogged toilet, give us a call!
5. Use Stoppers or Filters to Catch Hair or Debris
Clean them out in the trash once they are filled instead of washing it down the sink.
6. Evaluate Your Yard for Tree Roots
If you think a tree’s roots might start encroaching on the drainage system, consider moving the tree or consulting a professional about keeping roots from growing into the system.
7. Have Your Pipes Professionally Cleared
If your sinks are already draining slowly, it may be too late for preventative measures and you will need the pipe cleared by a professional plumber.
Following these maintenance tips can prevent a big headache for you during your holiday gathering. If you need professional plumbing help, give us a call at 1-800-989-0299! We’re available 24/7 for all your plumbing and HVAC needs.