The start of a new year is the perfect time to give your drains some TLC. This includes reevaluating your habits to make sure you aren’t accidentally harming your pipes, along with taking care of any issues that might be causing trouble. These five simple tips can help you clear your drains and enjoy smooth, carefree plumbing year-round.
1. Use a Snake to Remove Debris
You can buy a simple drain snake online or pick one up at a hardware store for under $10. Snakes are handy tools that are always great for removing hair and soap scum from slow-draining sinks. They’re also much better to use than over-the-counter drain cleaners, which contain harsh chemicals that can harm your pipes.
2. Rinse With Vinegar and Baking Soda
This natural drain cleaner is a good way to give your pipes a clean start for the new year using items you likely already have around the house. Add 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda mixed with 1/2 cup of white or apple cider vinegar to your drains, and let them form a bubbling solution for several minutes. Rinse with hot water for 1-2 minutes. You can repeat this once a week to improve drainage and prevent blockages.
3. Ensure Proper Disposal
Are you guilty of rinsing food down a sink that doesn’t have a garbage disposal, or letting oil run off dirty dishes and down the drain? These are common habits that can destroy pipes over time. Take a moment to evaluate your actions, and make sure you aren’t doing things that could harm your plumbing. Remind your children to practice proper drain care as well.
Follow these helpful guidelines:
- Never put anything that isn’t food-related down kitchen drains
- Do not flush feminine hygiene products, paper towels, wipes or anything else, other than human waste and toilet paper, down the toilet.
- Avoid letting food waste gather in your garbage disposal.
- Do not run oil, grease or coffee grounds down your kitchen sink.
4. Schedule Routine Service
Plumbing is a durable structure, but it still needs routine care to provide consistent performance. Be on the lookout for signs of trouble, such as gurgling, backing up or slow draining. Contact a plumber whenever you notice issues, so they can fix the problem before it becomes a lengthier, more expensive repair.
5. Get a Professional Drain Cleaning
You can only do so much cleaning on your own. Sometimes, you need professional service to completely wipe away years of dirt and grime from your drains. A professional drain cleaning service will eliminate the major causes of clogs, improve drainage speed and enhance your pipes’ performance.
If you’re ready to start the new year off with clean drains, contact our professionals at A-1 Plumbing and Heating for expert drain cleaning in Farmington, ME.