Food particles, hair, and other debris can restrict your pipes over time and impede the flow of water, which can lead to backups and standing water problems. The good news is that there are some easy steps you can take to prevent your drains from clogging. Waialae Plumbing & Construction in Honolulu, HI, has been the area’s leading residential and commercial plumber for more than 20 years. In their more than two decades specializing in drain cleaning services, their team has seen countless clogs that could have been prevented with a little bit of foresight.    

5 Tips From Honolulu’s Leading Plumber That Can Prevent Clogged Drains

1. Use a Strainer

If your kitchen sink doesn’t have a garbage disposal, food particles can easily become stuck and block your drain. That’s why you should install a drain strainer. These inexpensive devices catch food bits before they can become a problem.

2. Collect, Don’t Dump Grease

Leftover cooking grease can clog drains when it coats the inside of the pipes and hardens. Instead of dumping grease down the drain, collect and dump it in a sealable container. Then, simply throw the container away to prevent this issue.

3. Watch What You Put Down Your Disposal

Just because you have a garbage disposal in your kitchen doesn’t mean it should become a catch-all for all your food refuse. Items like banana peels, coffee grounds, and potato skins can impede your water flow. Fibrous vegetable waste will also collect and start to wear on the disposals grinders as well as the motor.

4. Don’t Flush Heavy Paper Products

Toilet tissue is the only paper that should be flushed down your toilets. Sanitary products, paper towels, and baby wipes can block your drains and cause backups. Even “flushable” bathroom wipes marketed to adults should be avoided, since they have been shown to cause plumbing issues in certain cases.

5. Clear Your Stoppers

Clean the drain stoppers in your sink and tub on a regular basis. Your stoppers can accumulate hair and soap scum over time. If left unattended, these substances can cause blockages that require service.

Although taking the proper precautions will help prevent your drains from clogging, there is no surefire way to avoid all drain blockages. If you have experienced slow drains or pooling water in your sinks or tubs, contact the professional plumbers at Waialae Plumbing & Construction. Call them at (808) 735-8595 or visit them online for more information on all of their services.