How to Prevent Blocked Drains: Tips for Every Homeowner
Blocked drains are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face, and if left untreated, they can lead to serious issues like water damage, foul odors, and even health risks. Whether you’re dealing with a slow-draining sink or a completely blocked pipe, understanding how to prevent blocked drains is key to maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy home. In this blog, we’ll explore some practical tips for preventing blocked drains and keeping your plumbing system in good condition.
Why Blocked Drains Are a Problem
A blocked drain is more than just an inconvenience. It can cause water to back up, leading to flooding and the potential for costly repairs. Clogged drains can also attract pests and pose health risks due to the growth of mold or bacteria in stagnant water. Common causes of blocked drains include the accumulation of grease, soap, hair, food waste, and tree roots. In some cases, an issue with the pipes themselves, such as wear and tear, may contribute to blockages.
Regular Maintenance and Preventative Care
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Avoid Pouring Grease and Fat Down the Drain Grease and fat may seem like liquids, but they solidify as they cool, forming sticky clumps in your pipes that can quickly lead to blockages. This includes oils from cooking, butter, and even sauces. To prevent grease buildup, always dispose of it in the trash. You can also keep a container or jar by your stove to collect cooking oils, which can later be thrown away safely.
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Install Drain Strainers or Screens One of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent clogged drains is by installing drain strainers or screens in sinks, bathtubs, and showers. These simple tools catch hair, food particles, soap scum, and other debris before they enter the plumbing system. Be sure to clean the strainer regularly to ensure it works effectively.
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Dispose of Food Waste Properly While it might be tempting to rinse food scraps down the sink, this can cause major clogs over time. Instead, use a compost bin or trash can for food waste. If you have a garbage disposal, make sure to use it properly by avoiding large amounts of food waste at once and running plenty of water to help flush it down the pipes.
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Use Hot Water Regularly Pouring hot water down your drains periodically can help prevent the buildup of grease and soap scum in your pipes. Boil a kettle of water and pour it slowly into your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or bathtub to keep things flowing smoothly. Be cautious with extremely hot water, especially if you have old or fragile pipes, as it could cause damage.
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Be Careful What Goes Down the Toilet Toilets are built to handle human waste and toilet paper—nothing more. Avoid flushing items like wipes (even those labeled “flushable”), sanitary products, cotton balls, and paper towels. These materials do not break down like toilet paper and can cause severe blockages. When in doubt, throw it out in the trash.
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Regularly Clean and Maintain Your Drains Cleaning your drains regularly can prevent debris from building up over time. You can use a simple DIY cleaning method by mixing equal parts baking soda and vinegar, then pouring it down the drain. Allow it to sit for 15–20 minutes before flushing with hot water. This mixture helps to break down build-up and eliminate odors.
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Check for Tree Roots in Your Pipes Tree roots are a common cause of blocked drains, especially in older homes or areas with large trees. Roots can grow into pipes, causing serious blockages or even damaging the pipes themselves. If you notice recurring drainage problems, it may be worth scheduling a professional drain inspection to check for tree root intrusion.
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Use Drain Covers in the Shower and Bathtub Showers and bathtubs are notorious for hair build-up, which can lead to slow drainage and blockages. Using a drain cover can help catch hair and prevent it from entering the pipes. These covers are inexpensive and easy to install, and they are much easier to clean than dealing with a blocked drain.
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Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners While chemical drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix for blockages, they can do more harm than good in the long run. These products contain harsh chemicals that can erode pipes, causing them to crack or deteriorate over time. Instead, use a plunger or a drain snake to dislodge any blockages. For more stubborn clogs, call a licensed plumber to safely and effectively clear your drains.
Professional Drain Maintenance and Inspections
Sometimes, even with the best preventative measures, drains can still become clogged or damaged. That’s why it’s important to schedule regular plumbing inspections with a licensed professional. Plumbsave offers expert services in drain maintenance, using techniques like high-pressure hydro draining and CCTV inspections to identify and address problems before they escalate.
High-Pressure Hydro Draining
High-pressure hydro draining is an effective method for clearing out stubborn blockages. A specialized hose is inserted into the drain, and high-pressure water is used to break up and flush away debris, grease, and other materials that may be causing the blockage. This method is safe, effective, and environmentally friendly, as it doesn’t involve harsh chemicals.
CCTV Drain Inspections
CCTV inspections allow plumbers to see inside your pipes without the need for excavation. A small camera is inserted into the drain, providing real-time video footage of any issues like tree root intrusion, pipe damage, or accumulated debris. This method allows plumbers to diagnose problems accurately and recommend the best course of action.
How to Know When to Call a Plumber
While DIY methods can help prevent and fix some minor drain issues, it’s important to know when to call in a professional plumber. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to contact Plumbsave:
- Foul odors emanating from your drains
- Recurring blockages despite regular maintenance
- Slow drainage in multiple fixtures at once
- Gurgling noises coming from drains
- Visible leaks or water damage near pipes
Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger problems, such as pipe bursts or flooding. Plumbsave’s licensed technicians can provide fast, reliable service to address any drain issues before they turn into emergencies.
Get in touch today!
Preventing blocked drains requires a combination of good habits, regular maintenance, and professional care. By avoiding grease and fat in the drains, using strainers, disposing of food waste properly, and performing regular cleaning, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of clogs. However, it’s important to remember that some issues, like tree roots or hidden pipe damage, may require the expertise of a professional plumber. With regular drain maintenance and the help of Plumbsave’s expert team, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing system remains in top condition for years to come.
For more information or to schedule a drain inspection or maintenance service, contact Plumbsave at 0499 044 839 or email info@plumbsave.com.au. Let us help you keep your drains clear and your home safe!