No More Drain Clogs!
Clogs are an inevitable part of home ownership. Some require a plunger and a bit of elbow grease. Others, however, require more intensive maneuvers, such as breaking through drywall, digging up the front lawn, and using specialized equipment.
However, there are many things homeowners can do to prevent clogs and the problems that come with them. While there’s no way to prevent every clog, many options exist to prevent serious ones. Some ways to prevent clogs include:
Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning and Maintenance
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that homeowners should consult with plumbing professionals at least once a year. This way, they can catch problems before they spiral into expensive issues. By having a professional examine the plumbing system, they can:
- Patch any leaks
- Replace any corroded or rusted parts
- Advise homeowners on any failing appliances
- Clean the drain
- Use specialized equipment to find clogs
A plumber can also advise homeowners on preventative measures to prevent clogs, leaks, and other issues. Many plumbing firms offer membership plans where, for a few extra dollars a year, a homeowner can get immediate help.
Get a Mesh Drain Screen 
Only water and soap should go down the drain. Food residue, debris, and other waste can cause serious clogs. Mesh drain screens prevent these things from getting deeper into the plumbing system. Some benefits of mesh drain screens include:
- They save homeowners money. A homeowner doesn’t have to spend money on repairs and replacements by preventing clogs.
- They prevent fatbergs. Fatbergs are congealed blobs of oil, fat, and grease. Once in the sewer main, they can create giant obstructions that require specialized equipment to remove.
- They prevent headaches. Nobody wants to deal with a plumbing problem––especially around the holidays. Something as small as a drain mesh screen can prevent such inconveniences.
Even the most basic mesh drain screens cost under $10. Many local dollar stores even sell them.
Avoid Pouring Certain Items Down the Drain (and Down the Toilet!)
As noted, toilets and drains can only process certain items before clogs arise. Even if a homeowner can successfully flush a certain item down the toilet, that doesn’t mean a problem won’t form in the future. Homeowners should dispose of these items in the trash:
- Feminine hygiene products, such as pads and tampons
- Condoms
- Diapers and baby wipes (even those that claim to be “flushable”)
- Fats, oils, and grease
- Napkins, paper towels, and cleaning wipes
- Food waste
Drain cleaners are some of the most dangerous things to pour down the drain. Contrary to what the commercials on TV say, drain cleaners make clogs worse. They can break down pipes and even cause certain materials to thicken, making them even more difficult to remove.
People should also refrain from flushing medications (even over-the-counter ones) down the toilet or drain. Not only can these substances eat away at a pipe’s insides, but they can also contaminate nearby water supplies.
About Drain Nerds
Drain Nerds is one of Southwest Florida’s top plumbing firms. With more than 10 years of experience, these professionals offer home improvement services, from drain cleaning to appliance installation. If one needs help with a problem or wants to know how to unclog a drain, one can call these Fort Myers professionals now.
