A clogged drain can become very inconvenient not mention costly if you call a plumber regularly or if structure damage becomes a later cause. No one really ever thinks about a clogged drain until they are dealing with one, and by that point a lot of damage may have already occurred within your home. With good pipe and plumbing maintenance, you can prevent clogged drains from causing water damage to your home's structure.
Tip 1
Use hot water when cleaning any dishes with hard deposits, and remove as much food and buildup beforehand to keep it from going down the sink. Never pour coffee grinds, grease, or excess food into the kitchen sink.
Tip 2
Once or twice a week to prevent buildup in your pipes, add a quarter-cup of baking soda followed by a half-cup of vinegar in your drain. Let this sit for ten minutes and then flush it with boiling hot water.
Tip 3
Regularly check your bathtub stoppers for hair and biofilm buildup, and check if the stopper should be replaced due to wear and tear.
Tip 4
Once a week fill your bathtub at least halfway full. Remove the stopper and let the water drain out to flush the line.
Tip 5
Do not put anything extra in the toilet besides toilet paper.
Tip 6
Avoid using chemical-based cleaners on a regular basis as they can corrode your pipes after a period of time. Instead opt for a natural or enzyme/ bacteria based cleaner that will create bacteria in your pipes to remove the bad bacteria causing any clogs.
Tip 7
Have regular plumbing maintenance inspections including having your lines snaked to catch anything that might lead to buildup done at least every six months to at most every year. A plumber should also regularly inspect a septic tank or sewer line connected to your home to remove any roots or other hazards that can end up growing through the line causing a complete replacement. Septic tanks should also be pumped every three to five years.
Resources: The Home Fixers
