Keeping your drain unclogged and water flowing smoothly is a mundane part of our day-to-day home maintenance that we often overlook. But when problems arise, they can lead to inconvenience and unwanted expenses. To prevent this, expert Portsmouth plumbers shared some helpful preventive measures.
1. Regular Drain Cleaning: A simple yet effective way to avoid blockages is to regularly clean your drains. It doesn’t necessarily mean you need a weekly schedule, but occasional cleaning can help maintain the smooth flow. You can use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, two common household items, to clean your drains. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Wait for 20 minutes and then rinse with boiling water. This process helps to break down minor clogs and keeps your drain pipes clean.
2. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain: Be careful of what you allow down your sink. Avoid flushing down non-dissolving items such as paper or cloth. In the kitchen, try not to pour fats and oils down the sink as they solidify when cooled and can easily block the pipes. In the bathroom, prevent hair, soap scum and small items from going down the drain.
3. Install a Drain Guard: Portsmouth plumbers highly recommend installing drain guards in your sinks, shower, and tub as a preventive measure. A drain guard is a handy device that can capture larger obstructions such as hair and food scraps before they enter your drain unblocking portsmouth drain.
4. Use a Plunger: For minor clogs, a plunger can be a handy DIY tool. The suction created by a plunger can effectively dislodge minor blockages. However, proper usage is important. Inappropriate use may lead to pushing the clog deeper instead of dislodging it.
5. Regular Professional Check: As part of your home maintenance, it’s wise to schedule regular plumbing check-ups. Expert Portsmouth plumbers can identify and fix potential issues before they turn into major problems. Regular professional inspection can also extend the life of your plumbing system.
6. Avoid Using Chemical Drain Cleaners: It’s tempting to reach for chemical drain cleaners when problems arise. However, their frequent use can corrode your pipes over time, leading to leaks or even pipe bursts. If you need to use a drain cleaner, choose enzyme-based cleaners instead. They are less corrosive and safer for your pipes.
7. Keep Your Outdoor Drains Clean: Not only your indoor drains, but also your courtyard or lawn drainage system need attention. Leaves, debris, twigs, etc., can clog these drains leading to waterlogging and damage to your property.
To summarize, maintaining smooth flowing drains is not just about reacting to blockages when they occur, but involves a proactive approach of preventing clogs from happening. Incorporating these simple preventive measures from our experienced Portsmouth plumbers can save you from unwanted disruptions and costly repairs. After all, prevention is always better than a cure.