If you have clogged drains in your home, you may experience a number of unpleasant and inconvenient plumbing issues, including backups, pipe leaks, and corrosion. When these affect your home, you’ll need to know the cause of the problem and the best way to troubleshoot it. Knowing the answers to some of your most common plumbing questions will help you determine when to call a licensed plumber.

4 Plumbing FAQs Answered

What Should I Avoid Putting Down Drains?

To prevent clogs, there are several items you should never allow down your drains. For kitchen sinks, avoid putting cooking oils, coffee grounds, bones, or fibrous vegetable debris in your garbage disposal. In bathrooms, do not flush dental floss, medication, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels. 

Are Tree Roots to Blame?

In some cases, tree roots may grow into your piping system, causing nasty clogs that back up your drains. Look at where large trees are planted on your property in relation to your main sewer line. If they are within about five feet or so of the vicinity, they may be the cause of the problem. 

Do Store-bought Products Help?

Store-bought chemicals only do so much in terms of unclogging your drains. They may provide temporary relief, but you’ll most likely need a plumbing team to clean out your drains thoroughly. Avoid using products with corrosive chemicals, such as sulfuric acid, which can damage pipework. 

When Should I Call a Plumbing Company?

Anytime you notice slow or backed up drains, get in touch with your local plumbing company. Rather than putting a bandage on the problem, they will diagnose it at its source and completely clear out your drains. This is a much better investment than using the same DIY remedies repeatedly and can help prevent more extensive issues in the future. 

Keep your home water systems clean and serviceable with drain cleaning services from Northern Water Treatment. They provide plumbing repairs, installations, and water treatment to clients throughout Minneapolis, MN. Call them at (763) 274-1476 to receive a free plumbing estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.