Clogged drains are the bane of any homeowner’s existence. Slow-moving water and unpleasant odours can quickly turn into a major headache. Thankfully, preventing blocked drains is often easier. As a leading plumber in Newcastle, here, we have outlined six simple yet effective tips to keep your drains flowing freely. Let’s take a closer look at these tips.
Six easy yet effective ways to prevent drain-blocking
Let’s dive into six easy ways to keep your drain from clogging. Most of these steps you can ensure with a DIY approach. Let’s take a look at them.
The drain strainer
Think of a drain strainer as your first line of defence against clogs. These inexpensive mesh baskets could be placed over sink and shower drains. They can trap food scraps, hair, and other debris before they have a chance to enter the pipes. Make sure to empty and clean your filters regularly to prevent a build-up that could restrict water flow.
Say no to grease down the drain.
Grease and cooking oil are significant culprits behind clogged kitchen drains. They solidify and cling to the inside of pipes, gradually forming a blockage. Instead of pouring used grease down the drain, let it solidify in a container and dispose of it in the trash.
The baking soda and vinegar duo
This natural cleaning powerhouse can work wonders on mild clogs. Simply pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz as it reacts, helping to loosen and break down light blockages. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before flushing with hot water.
The hot water trick
Pouring a kettle of hot water down the drain can be a surprisingly effective way to prevent clogs, especially in the kitchen. Hot water helps to melt and loosen greasy build-up that can contribute to blockages over time.
Don’t flush indiscriminately.
Toilets are designed to handle toilet paper and human waste only. Flushing anything else can lead to serious clogs. Invest in a separate wastebasket for these items to avoid plumbing problems.
Schedule regular drain inspections.
Just like your car, your plumbing system benefits from regular check-ups. A professional plumber can inspect your drains for potential problems and clear any minor blockages before they become significant. This proactive approach can save you time, money, and the hassle of a substantial drain clog.
As a leading plumber in Newcastle, we excel at cleaning all kinds of clogged drains. Contact MK Robinson if you need professional help with routine maintenance or a thorough removal of clogs from your drain.