No one likes dealing with a clogged sink or a backed-up toilet. But unfortunately, plumbing problems are a common occurrence in many households.
The good news is that there are some simple things you can do to help keep your home's plumbing clean and functioning properly.
Here are 10 tips for keeping your home's plumbing clean.
1)) Don't Pour Grease Down The Drain
Grease may seem like it goes down the drain just fine when it's hot, but it will solidify once it cools off and then cling to your pipes, causing clogs.
Instead, pour grease into a coffee can or other container and dispose of it once it has cooled.
2)) Don't Flush Anything Other Than Toilet Paper
Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper can cause clogs and backups.
This includes feminine hygiene products, diapers, paper towels, and wipes (even if they claim to be "flushable").
3)) Use Strainers In Your Sinks
Strainers catch food particles, hair, and other debris so that they don't go down the drain and cause clogs.
Be sure to clean out your strainers regularly so that they can continue to do their job effectively.
4)) Run Cold Water When You Use The Garbage Disposal
Hot water can melt grease and make it more likely to cling to your pipes.
Cold water, on the other hand, will solidify grease so that it can be chopped up more easily by the garbage disposal blades.
5)) Don't Overload Your Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal is not a trash can—it should only be used for small food scraps.
Trying to grind up too much at once will not only strain the motor but also increase the likelihood of a clog.
If you have larger items that need to be disposed of, put them in the trash instead of trying to force them down the drain.
6)) Clean Out Your Drains Regularly
Over time, drains can become slow due to buildup of soap scum, hair, and other debris.
To help keep drains flowing freely, pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain once a month and then flush with hot water.
You can also try using a plunger or snake if your drains are particularly slow or clogged.
7)) Don't Use Chemical Drain Cleaners
While chemical cleaners may seem like an easy way to clear a clog, they are actually very harsh on both your pipes and your skin.
They can also create toxic fumes, so it's best to avoid using them altogether.
If you must use one, be sure to purchase a safe drain cleaner and follow the directions carefully and wear gloves and eye protection.
8)) Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is Located
In case of a major leak, you'll want to be able to shut off your home's water supply quickly.
The main shut-off valve is usually located near where the main water line enters your house .
9)) Inspect Exposed Pipes Regularly For Leaks
Check under sinks, in crawl spaces, and in any other areas where you can see exposed pipes.
If you see any signs of leaking, such as drips or puddles, call a plumber right away so that repairs can be made before the leak causes major damage.
Pro Tip: Installing under sink protectors for kitchen and bathroom sinks is a wise decision if you want to protect the cabinet area beneath your sinks from any water spills or leaks.
Not only do these protectors guard against moisture damage, but they also provide extra coverage in case of flooding or pipe leaks.
Plus, they are an economical choice that will save you time and money in the long run.
Investing in an under sink protector is a simple way to ensure the safety of your cabinet area and give you peace of mind!
10)) Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Even if everything seems to be working fine, it's still a good idea to have regular maintenance done by a professional plumber.
This will help ensure that small problems are caught before they have a chance to turn into big ones.
Plus, regular maintenance can extend the life of your plumbing system overall.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your home's plumbing clean and functioning properly for many years to come.
If you have any concerns about your plumbing or need assistance with repairs or maintenance, be sure to contact a licensed professional plumber in your area for assistance.
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