Clogged drains can be a nightmare to deal with. They can lead to slow water drainage, unpleasant odors, and even costly plumbing problems. What causes clogged drains are often everyday items that we mindlessly let slip down the sink or toilet.
In this blog, we’ll explore the common culprits behind clogged drains and provide you with tips to prevent these issues from arising. So, let’s dive in and learn how to avoid putting these things down your drain to avoid clogs!
Understanding What Causes Clogged Drains
Before we delve into the list of items to avoid, let’s take a moment to understand what causes clogged drains in the first place. Drains, whether in the kitchen or bathroom, are designed to handle specific types of waste and water flow. Anything that deviates from this can lead to blockages. Ultimately, clogs can lead to slow draining, water backups, and even burst pipes in severe cases.
The Culprits: Items to Avoid
Now that we have a clear understanding of the common causes of clogged drains, let’s delve into the items you should avoid putting down your drain to keep your plumbing system in optimal condition:
Cooking Oils and Grease
Pouring cooking oils and grease down the drain might seem convenient, but it’s a recipe for disaster. As these substances cool, they solidify and coat the inside of your drain pipes, leading to restricted water flow.
As you can see, it’s crucial to avoid putting these things down your drain to avoid clogs. Instead, allow fats to cool, then dispose of them in the trash.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are notorious for causing clogs. They may seem harmless, but their texture makes them prone to clumping together and creating blockages. Dispose of coffee grounds in the trash or use them as compost.
Paper Towels and Wipes
Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to disintegrate in water, paper towels and wipes do not break down as easily. Flushing them down the toilet can lead to accumulation and blockages in your plumbing system.
Food Waste
While some food scraps might be okay to go down the garbage disposal, fibrous or starchy foods like potato peels, onion skins, and pasta can tangle and cause blockages. Now that you know to avoid putting these things down your drain to avoid clogs, it’s time to get proactive. Use your garbage disposal wisely, and consider composting food waste instead.
Soap Scum and Hair
In the bathroom, soap scum and hair are common culprits. They combine and create dense clogs that impede water flow. Consider using drain catchers to prevent hair from going down the drain, and clean soap scum regularly.
Preventing Clogs: Tips and Best Practices
Now that we know what to avoid, let’s explore some proactive measures to prevent clogs and maintain healthy drain pipes.
Use Hot Water
Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help dissolve grease and prevent buildup. This is especially useful for kitchen sinks.
Be Mindful of Hazardous Waste
Certain chemicals, like paint or strong cleaning agents, should never go down the drain. These chemicals can harm the environment and corrode your pipes. Check your local guidelines for proper disposal.
Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning Services
Routine maintenance is key to preventing clogs. Professional plumbers offer drain cleaning services that can keep your plumbing system in top condition. If you’re looking for a robust solution, Plumbing & A/C Medic provides hydro jetting in Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding areas to thoroughly clean and clear your pipes.
Contact Our Drain Cleaning Experts Today!
Being mindful of what you allow down your drain is crucial to avoid putting these things down your drain to avoid clogs. By understanding what causes clogged drains and following the tips mentioned above, you can prevent common plumbing problems and the need for costly repairs. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in maintaining smooth water flow and a functional plumbing system.
If you’re ready for professional drain cleaning in Phoenix, AZ, Plumbing & A/C Medic offers professional solutions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and enjoy hassle-free plumbing!
