How to Prevent Frequent Drain Clogs in Your Home

1. Use Drain Screens

Why It Works:
Drain screens or strainers are an inexpensive way to prevent hair, food particles, and debris from entering your pipes.

How to Use Them:

Install them in sinks, bathtubs, and showers.
Clean the screens regularly to maintain proper drainage.

2. Dispose of Grease Properly

Why It Works:
Grease and oil solidify as they cool, creating blockages in your pipes.

What to Do:

Avoid pouring cooking oil, bacon grease, or other fats down the drain.
Instead, collect grease in a container and dispose of it in the trash once it hardens.

3. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

Why It Works:
Many clogs are caused by improper disposal of items that don’t belong in the drain.

Dos and Don’ts:

Do: Dispose of food scraps in the trash or compost.
Don’t: Flush coffee grounds, eggshells, or fibrous foods like celery down the sink.
In the bathroom, avoid flushing items like wipes, cotton swabs, or sanitary products.

4. Flush Your Drains Regularly

Why It Works:
Flushing your drains with hot water can help dissolve grease and clear small debris before it becomes a problem.

How to Do It:

Once a week, pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain.
For extra cleaning power, follow with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.

5. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Why It Works:
While tempting, chemical drain cleaners can damage your pipes over time and often don’t address the root cause of the clog.

What to Do Instead:

Use natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar.
Call a professional plumber for stubborn clogs or annual maintenance.

6. Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

Why It Works:
Proper use of your garbage disposal prevents food buildup in your sink drains.

Best Practices:

Run cold water while using the disposal to solidify grease and help flush it out.
Avoid grinding hard items like bones, fruit pits, or fibrous vegetables.

7. Schedule Regular Professional Drain Cleaning

Why It Works:
Even with the best prevention habits, buildup can accumulate over time. Regular professional cleaning ensures your pipes remain clear and prevents long-term damage.

What to Expect:

Techniques like hydro jetting or drain snaking can remove stubborn blockages.
Professional inspections can identify potential issues before they escalate.

The Long-Term Benefits of Preventing Clogs

Save Money: Avoid costly emergency repairs and plumbing replacements.
Peace of Mind: Fewer disruptions in your daily routine.
Extend the Lifespan of Your Pipes: Preventative care reduces the wear and tear caused by clogs.

Keep Your Drains Clear with Encano Plumbing and Drainage Ltd.

At Encano Plumbing and Drainage Ltd., we specialize in keeping your plumbing system in top shape. If you’re struggling with frequent clogs or want to schedule a routine inspection, our experienced team in Richmond, BC, is here to help.

Contact us today for professional drain cleaning and maintenance services!