Blocked drains can be a real hassle, whether it’s in your home or business. They can cause a whole range of problems, from bad smells to water damage and even expensive repairs.
But don’t worry, there are steps you can take to prevent blocked drains before they become a big issue. In this blog, we’ll talk about how you can keep your drains clear and avoid the frustration that comes with clogs.
1. Be Careful What You Put Down the Drain
The most common reason drains get blocked is because of what’s being put down them. In the kitchen, things like grease, oil, food scraps, and coffee grounds can all build up in your pipes and create blockages. When you wash things down the sink, these materials can stick to the inside of the pipes and, over time, cause a serious clog.
Tip: Instead of pouring grease or oil down the sink, pour it into a container and throw it in the trash. Always use a strainer in your sink to catch food scraps and throw them away instead of washing them down the drain. These little changes can help keep your drains clear and functioning well.
- In the bathroom, hair is one of the biggest culprits for causing blockages. Hair can easily get stuck in your pipes, mixing with soap and shampoo to form a thick mass that blocks water flow. Over time, this can lead to slow drainage or even complete blockages.
- Place a hair catcher over your shower drain to catch any loose hair before it gets into the pipes. It’s a simple and effective way to prevent hair from causing issues. Also, try to remove as much hair as possible before rinsing.
2. Regular Drain Cleaning
One of the best ways to prevent blocked drains is to clean them regularly. Just like you need to clean your house to keep things in order, your drains need cleaning to prevent buildup. If you don’t clean your drains often, waste material like soap, grease, and food can slowly accumulate in the pipes, leading to clogs.
Tip: You don’t need to hire a professional for regular cleaning (although it’s a good idea to call one once in a while). You can do some simple cleaning at home.
- Pour boiling water down the drain once a week to help clear away any grease or soap buildup. You can also use a natural cleaning solution, like vinegar and baking soda, to clean your drains.
- Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then flush it with hot water. This helps break down any grease or gunk that’s sticking to your pipes.
- If you’re unsure about doing it yourself or if your drains are starting to slow down, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional plumber, like Louw Bros, to clean your drains properly.
3. Don’t Flush the Wrong Things Down the Toilet
It’s easy to think that everything is okay to flush down the toilet, but that’s far from true. Many things, like wipes (even if they say “flushable”), sanitary products, cotton balls, and paper towels, can block your pipes. These materials don’t break down easily and can cause big blockages in your plumbing system.
Tip: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Anything else should go in the trash. Make sure to have a trash can nearby so it’s easy to dispose of items that shouldn’t be flushed.
4. Use Drain Covers and Filters
In both the kitchen and bathroom, using drain covers or filters is a simple way to stop food, hair, and other debris from entering your drains. These small devices can catch items before they get into your pipes and cause clogs.
Tip: Install drain covers or filters in your kitchen and bathroom sinks. These can be found in most home stores and are easy to install. They will catch food scraps in the kitchen and hair in the bathroom, which will save you from the hassle of dealing with blockages.
5. Be Mindful of Tree Roots
If you have trees or large plants near your property, their roots can sometimes make their way into your pipes. Tree roots love to seek out water, and if they find a crack in your pipes, they can invade and grow inside. This can cause serious blockages, and it’s hard to notice until it’s too late.
Tip: Make sure you don’t plant large trees or bushes too close to your pipes. If you already have trees near your plumbing, keep an eye out for signs of trouble. If you notice any slow drains or wet patches in your yard, it could be an indication that tree roots are causing problems with your pipes.
6. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Many people turn to store-bought chemical drain cleaners when they’re dealing with a clog. While these cleaners might seem to work at first, they can actually damage your pipes over time. The harsh chemicals can eat away at your plumbing, which leads to even more problems down the line.
Tip: Instead of using chemical cleaners, stick to natural methods for keeping your drains clear. As we mentioned earlier, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can work wonders. If you do need to use a cleaner, choose a safer, eco-friendly product that’s gentle on your pipes.
7. Fix Leaks Promptly
Sometimes, a leak can be the first sign that something’s wrong with your plumbing. Leaky pipes or faucets can lead to water pooling in places it shouldn’t, which can eventually lead to blockages or water damage.
Tip: If you notice any leaks, fix them right away. The longer you wait, the bigger the problem can become. A small leak can lead to a bigger issue with your pipes if left unattended.
8. Get Professional Help When Needed
Even if you take care of your drains and follow these tips, there may come a time when you need professional help. If your drains are still slow, there’s a serious clog, or you notice foul smells that won’t go away, it’s time to call a plumber.
Tip: Don’t wait until the problem gets worse. If you’re unsure, call Louw Bros today. We offer expert plumbing services, including drain cleaning and pipe inspections, to keep your home or business free from blockages.
Why You Need Louw Bros for Your Plumbing Needs
At Louw Bros, we understand how frustrating blocked drains can be. We know how important it is to keep your plumbing system in top condition to avoid costly repairs, damage, and health risks.
That’s why we offer professional plumbing services in Plettenberg Bay and Cape Town. Our team is ready to tackle any drain problems you have, whether it’s cleaning, repairs, or inspections.
Don’t wait until your drains are blocked and causing problems. Take action today!
If you want to avoid expensive repairs, water damage, and plumbing nightmares, you need to trust the experts at Louw Bros. We’ve been helping homeowners and businesses like yours with their plumbing needs for years, and we’re here to help you too.
CALL LOUW BROS NOW AND GET YOUR DRAINS CLEANED TODAY!
If you’re dealing with blocked drains or want to prevent blocked drains from happening in the future, don’t hesitate. Contact Louw Bros today for fast, affordable, and reliable plumbing services. Our expert team is here to help you with all your drain and plumbing needs.
Call now, and let us keep your home or business plumbing clear and worry-free!
Louw Bros – Your Drain Experts in Plettenberg Bay & Cape Town.
