How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Backed Up: Tips from Expert Drain Cleaners

Have you ever pulled a wad of hair out of a shower drain or fished a chicken bone from the garbage disposal? As a homeowner, you will likely face countless situations like these over the course of your life, but there are ways to make them easier and less frequent. Today, we are teaching you how to prevent your drains from backing up, saving you thousands of dollars in potential damage. Let’s dive right in!

Common Causes of Drain Backups

Many homeowners don’t realize that drains are only meant for water and small particles that can easily be washed away. Unfortunately, many end up allowing far more to take a tour through their drain system. While a little here and there won’t cause an issue right away, it can eventually create a significant problem. 

For example, the following should be prevented, or at least minimized, from going down the drain:

• Fats, Grease, and Oils
• Food Scraps
• Thick Soap Scum
• Hair
• Trash & Wipes
• Foreign Objects 
• Excess Mineral Build Up

How to Keep Drains from Backing Up

While it may seem challenging to keep these items from accidentally going down the drain, we have a few tricks to help you! 

#1: Proper Disposal

If you aren’t willing to eat it, it shouldn’t go down the drain. Gross, we know, but it is an easy way to remember what can and can’t go down the drain. Proper disposal is one of the easiest ways to prevent drains from backing up. Here are a few easy ways to do this:

• Pour cooking fats, grease, and oils into a jar after cooking. Allow it to cool, and then throw it away in the trash can. 
• Never place large food scraps down the drain, even if you have a garbage disposal. Coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, rice, and dense fruits or vegetables should either be composted or put in the trash. 
• Never flush trash or wipes, even if they say they are “flushable.”
• Always check for foreign objects to prevent them from going down the drain; common ones we see are children’s toys and jewelry. 

#2: Installing Drain Strainers

Even with our best intentions, stuff can easily sneak past us and take a trip down the drain. That is when a second line of defense can be beneficial. Drain strainers are essentially fine mesh strainers that you place on the drain. Only water and small particles acceptable to go down the drain can make it through. Drain strainers should be placed on every drain, including kitchen sinks, garage and laundry sinks, as well as in bathroom sinks and showers. 

Speaking of things that shouldn’t go down the drain, hair is a big one! Of course, we lose hair every time we take a shower. That is 100% understandable. A simple drain strainer can make a huge difference rather than letting it accumulate in the drain and cause a clog. Additionally, we recommend adding a hair catcher to the shower wall if you have long hair. As your long hair comes off in your hands, place it onto the hair catcher. Then, you can simply grab it quickly when it dries! 

Pro Tip: Many commercial soaps are made with animal fat, which can leave visible soap residue that will cause clogs. We recommend you switch to an alternative brand if you see residue.

#3: Install a Water Softener System

Did you know mineral deposits can accumulate in your pipes if your home has hard water? The U.S. Geological Survey defines hard water as:

“In scientific terms, water hardness is generally the amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in water.”

In everyday terms, you may notice hard water if your hands feel slimy after washing or if your drinking glasses at home are never fully clear. The best way to prevent hard water buildup is by investing in a water softener system, which will minimize buildup over time. 

#4: Regular Cleaning & Maintenance

Lastly, make sure to clean and maintain your drains regularly. This means taking the time to clear out drain strainers, remove excess food scraps from the drain, and follow the procedures from step #1! Additionally, if you see any issues with your drains or pipes, always call in your local expert drain cleaners for an immediate fix before it becomes a larger problem. 

Natural Solutions vs. Chemical Cleaners

As you likely know, most store-bought drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can be damaging to your drain system and the local environment. While they are necessary from time to time, we recommend utilizing natural solutions for the majority of your cleaning and maintenance. 

First, we advise flushing your drains with hot water once a week, as it can help cut through clogs and flush out debris. Then, for natural cleaning solutions we recommend utilizing baking soda and vinegar. 

The Time to Call in Professional Drain Cleaners

As a homeowner, it is essential to know when to call in professional drain cleaners. Waiting and hoping the issue will resolve itself or attempting DIY solutions can end up costing you far more in damages. 

Critical situations that demand immediate expert drain cleaners include severe blockages, burst pipes, water heater problems, visible water damage, and gas line issues. In these scenarios, it is best to turn off the source of water or gas, remove your family from any possible dangers, and immediately call for professional help. 

Generations Trenchless – Your Tri-Cities, WA, Drain Cleaning Service

Are you facing a situation where you need professional drain cleaners? Even the most minor clogs can quickly turn into a significant problem. That’s where we can help! If you are facing clogging or any other drain problem, we are your local drain cleaners with the experience, passion, and tools to get the job done quickly and affordably! 

Don’t let a backed-up drain disrupt your life! Contact Generations Trenchless and Plumbing for expert advice and top-notch service. Ensure your drains remain clear and functional year-round.