Whether you have a clogged drain or a backed-up toilet, few household situations are as frustrating and inconvenient as a plumbing problem. Unfortunately, most of the repairs for your plumbing system are not something you can put off. That’s why learning a few tips on how to prevent them in the first place is valuable.

How to Avoid Plumbing Issues

1. Don’t Use Harsh Chemical Cleaners

Caustic drain cleaners use sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, or other strong chemicals as a cleaning agent. While these substances can clear a clog quickly, they can also be extremely corrosive to most types of materials used for your piping. If used too often, they will eventually eat through your pipes and cause leaks.

2. Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain

Cooking oil and grease can coagulate and stick to the sides of your pipes once they cool off, causing clogs. Instead of pouring the oil down the drain, try saving it for future use or spreading it in your garden to kill weeds. 

3. Use Your Garbage Disposal Properly

Many people throw all sorts of food waste in the garbage disposal without thinking of the possible consequences. Seemingly harmless items, such as coffee grounds, celery, fruit pits, potato peels, and even pasta can damage the appliance or clog up the pipes.

4. Don’t Flush Insoluble Items Down the Toilet

Napkins, diapers, facial wipes, and dental floss are just some of the items most commonly flushed down the toilet. These items don’t easily dissolve in wastewater, and once enough of them clump together inside the pipes, they can clog your drains, which might lead to your toilet backing up.  

5. Have Your Plumbing System Serviced Regularly

Taking preventive measures to ensure your plumbing system is in good condition can help you save money on repairs. Even when there’s nothing noticeably wrong with the system, hire plumbers for a thorough inspection at least once a year. Whatever issues they discover would be easier to fix at the onset.

If you need prompt and reliable plumbing service, get in touch with Miller & Humphrey Plumbing & Electric in Enterprise, AL. This trusted electrical and plumbing contractor has been serving homeowners in the area for more than 60 years, and they also carry quality parts if your system needs to be repaired or replaced. Call (334) 347-9212 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information on their services.