3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Drains Clean

If you're like most homeowners, you probably don't pay much attention to your home's plumbing…until it stops working properly. When a drain is clogged and water stops flowing down the pipes, it's easy to panic. When it comes to cleaning your drains, using the wrong method can do serious damage to your plumbing, resulting in expensive repairs down the line. Here are a few easy ways to handle clogs that won't damage your pipes.

BOILING WATER

Many drain clogs are due to a buildup of soap scum and grease rather than solid debris. The easiest way to power through them is not to use a store-bought drain cleaner, but to pour boiling water down the drain. The hot water dissolves the solidified grease and scum and breaks up the clog until it can flow harmlessly down the pipe. You may need to repeat this process several times as it can take a while for the hot water to dissolve the solids.

INSTALL MESH DRAIN COVERS

Preventing clogs in the first place is always easier than cleaning out your drains. Clogs form when hair, grease, soap scum, and dirt flow into the pipes and get stuck inside the plumbing. Install a simple mesh drain cover over the drains in your shower, bathroom sink, and kitchen sink. Any large particles and debris will be caught by the mesh, keeping it out of your pipes in the first place. As soon as you notice the mesh getting dirty, tap the contents into a trash can and rinse the cover thoroughly in hot water.

CALL A PLUMBER

The easiest way to deal with a clog is to call an experienced plumber and schedule a drain cleaning appointment. They have the tools and training required to safely break up any clogs inside the pipes without damaging the plumbing. Best of all, they'll be able to identify the cause of the clog so you can keep them from coming back as frequently.

Don't settle for slow-moving or clogged drains. Contact the pros at A R Engh Heating & Air Conditioning and let our experienced team take care of your plumbing. Schedule an appointment today.