Your sewer lines should flow freely for the best performance. However, sediment, debris, or damage can build up over time and cause a leak or backup in the sewer line. To avoid extensive plumbing repairs, learn what to do—and what not to do—when it comes to flushing or pouring anything down your pipes. You’ll also ensure your plumbing always works as expected, without causing bad odors or backups.

Do:

Flush your hot water tank once a year.

Over time, it’s normal for water heaters and tanks to develop limescale and sediment. These substances aren’t inherently harmful, but they can impede water heater performance. To prevent premature corrosion in your water tank, have it professionally flushed once a year.

Run your disposal with the water on.

If you have a garbage disposal, only run it with the cold water on full blast. This ensures the food pieces adequately breaks down, and any traces of oil or grease (which you should never pour down your drain on purpose) remain solid on the way down.

Use a drain screen.

Buy drain screens for all sinks in your kitchen and bathrooms. These will catch any hair, soap scum, food particles, and other substances that could potentially clog your sewer drains. Clean them out periodically to ensure clear drains.

Don’t:

Flush anything but toilet paper and waste.

Though your toilet can flush other objects, they may clog pipes and lead to sewage backup. Do not flush sanitary napkins, diapers, wet wipes, or any other products. Keep a trash can in your bathroom, so you can easily dispose of these items properly.

Pour cooking oil down the drain.

As stated earlier, never pour oil grease down your drain, especially if you use a septic tank. Otherwise, grease will congeal in your system and cause plumbing backups.

Use chemical drain cleaners.

While they may appear to work quickly, chemical drain cleaners don’t break down everything in your sewer lines. These acidic chemicals may even damage your pipes by eating away at them, causing premature corrosion. Instead, call a professional drain cleaning service.

For dependable drain cleaning and plumbing repair in the Anchorage, AK, area, contact Chugach Sewer & Drain. They’re locally owned and operated, and they serve both commercial and residential clients. Call (907) 929-5072 to request an estimate, or go online for more information about the fully licensed and certified team.