Having a clogged drain is never fun, and depending on the extent of the clog, it can be a real pain to get your drain flowing again. But there are several things you can do to help prevent clogs from happening in the first place. The location will have a big impact on the kinds of preventative measures you’ll need to take to keep your drains clear, so let’s start with the kitchen sink.
The Kitchen Sink
Keeping your kitchen sink clear and draining smoothly is important not only because it could cause a backup into your sink, but also because it’s the most likely place to have an odor when not draining properly. There are a few things you can do to help keep it draining smoothly and smell free however.
First, by simply running hot water through the sink during and after each use of the sink, you can help things keep moving along. This is especially important if you have a disposal and some food particles may have made their way down the drain.
Second, periodically pouring some vinegar or lemon water down the sink along with hot water can help clean the drain and remove odors. Both vinegar and lemon are good natural alternatives to chemical cleaners, and both have powerful cleaning capabilities.
And third, using a catch or screen in your kitchen sink can help prevent food from making its way down the drain and into your pipes. Even if your kitchen sink has a disposal, it is still best to avoid having food go down the sink. Over time this debris can build up, causing a clog and an awful smell in the kitchen.
Bathroom Drains
Another area in the home that lends itself to clogs is the bathroom. The sink and shower drains can both easily become clogged when things like hair and certain cleansing products make their way down the drain. These clogs are easy to avoid however, with some regular care.
First and foremost, in the shower the most common cause of a clogged drain is hair, so adding a screen or other hair catching device to the shower drain can prevent hair from going down the drain and clogging it. There are many options available based on your needs, but in general having some type of catch will make a huge difference.
The second main cause of clogs in the bathroom is from products that are used in the shower, tub, or sink that may leave a residue that can build up over time. Hair conditioner? A moisturizing hand soap? These things can cause buildup over time, so to remove it, periodically run hot water and a cleaning agent down the drain. If you prefer a natural solution, baking soda can help remove that buildup and prevent clogs.
If you have a clogged drain that is being stubborn and nothing you try is working, call us at Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating today. We are an Eldersburg emergency plumber and we’d be happy to help you with your problem in a timely fashion.